Associate Dentist - Mexico, MO

ASSOCIATE DENTIST

Mexico, MO | Full-Time

• SALARY: $185,000 base salary
• LOCATION:
  
  Mexico, MO (On-Site)
• JOB TYPE:
  Full-Time
• REPORTS TO:
  
  Dental Director
• NHSC LOAN REPAYMENT ELIGIBLE: HPSA Dental Score 25

Arthur Center is seeking an Associate Dentist to provide comprehensive dental care in a rural community where access is limited and your work will have a direct, visible impact. In this role, you will deliver general dentistry services as part of an integrated care team, collaborating with primary care providers, behavioral health clinicians, and dental hygienists to support whole-person health for underserved patients across rural Missouri.

This role is ideal for a mission-driven dentist who wants clinical autonomy, meaningful community impact, and the support of an integrated health center team.

• Provide comprehensive dental care including routine exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and preventive care.
• Conduct thorough patient assessments and develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans for each patient.
• Manage dental emergencies and complex cases as they arise, exercising sound clinical judgment within a rural setting with limited local specialty resources.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records in compliance with all applicable regulations and Arthur Center health center policies.

• Communicate clearly and compassionately with patients and families, ensuring they feel informed, comfortable, and respected throughout their treatment.
• Recognize dental anxiety and behavioral health considerations during treatment, using calming techniques, positive reinforcement, and patient-centered strategies to build trust and improve the care experience.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of underserved and vulnerable populations, including patients with limited prior access to dental care.

• Work collaboratively with primary care providers, behavioral health clinicians, dental hygienists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver integrated, whole-person care.
• Provide guidance and clinical direction to dental assistants and support staff as needed.
• Support team development and quality improvement by sharing constructive, professional input within established clinical and organizational processes.
• Participate in community outreach and oral health education initiatives to promote oral health awareness across the communities we serve.
• Participate in staff meetings, quality improvement activities, and organizational committees as requested.

• Strong clinical skills across comprehensive general dentistry with the ability to exercise independent professional judgment in challenging situations.
• Excellent patient communication skills - able to put patients of all ages and backgrounds at ease throughout treatment.
• Knowledge of behavioral health considerations in the dental setting, including techniques for managing anxiety and building patient trust.
• Understanding of public health dentistry and quality dental practices in an integrated care environment.
• Collaborative team player who leads with integrity and builds long-term relationships with patients, staff, and community partners.
• Committed to continuous professional development and staying current with dental technologies and techniques.
• Genuine commitment to serving rural and underserved communities.

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
• Active, unrestricted Missouri dental license
• Valid DEA and BNDD numbers
• Strong clinical skills in general dentistry
• Commitment to serving rural and underserved communities

• Experience…