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About Smiling Starts

Smiling Starts is Western Australia’s early childhood dental program, delivering oral health education, prevention and minimally invasive clinical dental care to eligible children and their families. We work in community settings to make oral health support accessible, engaging and empowering for every family.

Find out more about Smiling Starts.

Work with us

Join the Smiling Starts team

We are growing our team and are looking for passionate dental assistants and oral health therapists to join our growing team and support young children and families across WA through early oral health education, prevention and compassionate care.

 

Behind the brush: Learn about life working with Smiling Starts

Step into a role where no two days look the same. From playful moments with toddlers, to empowering conversations with parents and carers, you’ll be a part of a community focused program that brings oral health education and prevention directly into welcoming, child friendly spaces.

Hear from our team about what they love most about being part of Smiling Starts

Smiling Starts staff member I'd absolutely recommend Smiling Starts to anyone looking for a dental role that's genuinely rewarding and freshingly different from a traditional clinic. It's fun, meaningful and full of movement and feel good moments. No two days are the same. We're out in the community meeting families where they are, from playgroups and libraries to community events, working alongside child health nurses and early educators. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of a prevention focused program that builds confidence, makes dental care fun from the very start, and helps shape healthy habits for children while supporting parents too. The best part about the role is the team. Our Dental Assistants and Oral Health Therapists bring amazing energy and heart into everything they do. The vibe is upbeat, supportive and all about creating positive first dental experiences.

 

Smiling Starts staff member I joined the Smiling Starts team in February after relocating from Queensland to beautiful East Perth. The Smiling Starts program truly reflects the essence of being an oral health therapist by focusing on prevention, minimal intervention and creating positive experiences for families. The team is incredibly positive, passionate, supportive and inclusive, which makes a big difference in day-to-day work. I also really value the strong work-life balance and the opportunity to travel to regional communities, where I can contribute to meaningful and fulfilling work. The flexibility and opportunities for continual professional growth are exceptional, allowing me to keep developing my skills and improving in my role. I would highly encourage and recommend any OHTs or DTs to consider applying for a role with the Smiling Starts program.

 

Smiling Starts staff member Since starting at Smiling Starts I have realised I have found my perfect job. Every single day is different, we go out to the community sharing our love for dental health education helping parents and carers care for their little one's mouth's. It is so rewarding being able to educate people and be there to answer any questions they have. Having worked in school dental for 13 years I saw how important dental health education is. Smiling Starts is introducing children to a fun, caring friendly start to their first dental check. As a dental assistant this program has allowed me to further my skills by getting to do oral health education, oral health assessments and applying Duraphat. It has been amazing to be able to do different things. If you are passionate about oral health education, love bubs and children and looking for something different to do Smiling Starts is the place to work.

Who we are looking for

Dental therapist/oral health therapist

Dental therapists / oral health therapists provide dental care and oral health promotion to the youngest members of our WA Community and their families within the Smiling Starts program. As part of the new program, dental therapists / oral health therapists receive referrals from child health nurses and other networks to provide dental care to eligible patients.

In this role, you’ll be part of a passionate team bringing this program to life in our communities.

You will

What we offer

This role supports flexible working practices and consideration will be given to flexible work options, where operationally appropriate. In addition to the great salary, our employees enjoy an amazing range of benefits (North Metropolitan Health Service - Pay and Benefits) including:

About you

 

Dental clinic assistant

As a dental clinical assistant (DCA) within Smiling Starts, you will engage directly with parents, carers, guardians, and their children—many of whom are among the youngest patients within our service.

Providing clinical assistance is a key part of the role, but it is not the only focus. You will also help create a positive, engaging and child friendly environment, supporting dental education and preventative care delivered within the community.

You will work collaboratively with local service providers and community partners, delivering services in settings such as libraries, playgroups and community health rooms.

What we offer

You will be

Ready to join our team?

Apply now

If you are looking for a role that combines clinical practice, community engagement and professional development, then Smiling Starts could be the perfect fit for you.

Submit your application

Full time and part time hours are available, and fixed term appointments will include the possibility of extension or conversion to permanency.

Applicants are required to apply online www.jobs.wa.gov.au so allow enough time to complete the online application process and attach your documentation. If you experience difficulties, please contact Employee Services on 13 44 77 for immediate assistance during business hours.

Want to know more?

Contact Smiling Starts on 1800 939 666 or email SmilingStarts@health.wa.gov.au to discuss how this role aligns with your personal and career interests.