Job Description

Dental Assistant

Under the general supervision of a Dentist in a clinical setting, the Dental Assistant will work with the dentist in providing dental treatment for patients.

Assists in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care for dental assistants.

Prepares and maintains dental instruments, supplies and equipment; prepares the operatory for the patient visit.

Seats patient in chair and explains procedures to be performed; collects and records patient health histories.

Drapes patient with protective linens and sets up instrument tray containing instruments, suction, gauze and other required supplies.

Prepares dental materialscements, amalgams, composites, impression materials, etc.

Takes and prepares radiographs using conventional or digital technology and following proper radiation safety precautions.

Assists with dental charting as appropriate.

Assists in the prevention and management of dental emergencies.

Manages the patient during dental procedures.

Provides active chairside assistance; transfers instruments as appropriate for four-handed dentistry; anticipates the dentist's needs.

Takes impressions for study casts, athletic mouth guards and custom tray. Performs laboratory procedures neatly and efficiently. Pours models with no bubbles, properly trim models, polish dental prostheses, make vac-u-press forms.

At the conclusion of the procedure, assists patient, clears work site of instruments and other materials; follows proper infection control protocols and prepares the operatory for the next patient.

Monitors and documents the flow of laboratory cases; maintains lab facility.

Scans reception room for patients and helps to manage patient flow.

Maintains and inventories dental supplies and lets manager know to reorders as necessary; tracks and verifies invoices if assigned by manager.

Cleans and sterilizes all instruments; helps to manage the dental office infection control plan to meet OSHA, CDC and ADA standards.

Participates in the ongoing evaluation of Dental Program operations to assure the delivery of high-quality services that support the financial sustainability of the program.

Other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities for Certified Dental Assistants:

Polish the patient's teeth to remove stains and soft deposits with Coronial Polishing Certification.

Apply topical fluoride and varnishes.

Apply pit and fissure sealants.

Remove surgical sutures.

Pre-select orthodontic bands.

Place and remove orthodontic bands.

Adapt temporary crowns.

Place topical medications.

Remove excess cement from fabricated restoration and orthodontic bands.

Demonstrates and embodies the Women's Care mission and core values.

Compliance with all HIPAA rules, regulations, and guidelines.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1 year of dental assistant experience OR certification in Dental Assisting.
• CPR certification
• Strong customer service skills and ability to put patients at ease.
• Ability to set up and prepare dental equipment and instrumentation in accordance with established regulations and guidelines.
• Ability to manage the dental office infection control plan to meet OSHA, CDC and ADA standards.
• Maintains and expands current level of dental assistant skill and knowledge by periodically attending continuing education programs.
• Places a high value on personal and departmental performance excellence.
• Able to professionally handle high-pressure situations and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently with a minimum amount of supervision.
• Able to accept constructive criticism and instruction while maintaining a positive attitude towards managers, programs and job responsibilities.
• Acts as a role model willing to accept or volunteer on projects as opportunity arises.
• Must be dependable, reliable, and punctual.

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