The Dental Assistant is responsible for efficient, patient-centered care. The Dental Assistant provides quality care and services to patients by assisting dentists, dental hygienists and other staff in various patient care, office, and laboratory duties. The Dental Assistant supports the efficiency and productivity of patient flow through the timely, accurate, and professional preparation of patients and patient information.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Clinical
- Collect and record patient health histories and document patient care accurately and promptly.
- Provide direct patient care under the guidance of a dentist, assisting with examinations, procedures, and treatments.
- Assist oral health providers by organizing and preparing instruments for use and assisting as needed during procedures.
- Expose and evaluate radiographs for diagnostic quality.
- Ensure patients are comfortable throughout the treatment process
- Provide patient preventive education and oral hygiene instructions.
- Follow through with post-visit duties—including EHR documentation, scheduling follow-up appointments, and preparing and disinfecting the exam room.
- Assist with daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, annual maintenance.
- Assist with daily clinic opening for preparation of patients and clinic closing routine.
- Assist dental provider(s) with pre-visit planning.
Administrative
- Utilize the requisite tools, systems, technology, and equipment in the collection of patient data and records management.
- Read, write, and maintain patient records and related administrative documentation.
- Provide backup support to Customer Services Representatives (CSRs), including office duties as requested.
- Maintain and follow all sterilization processes, policies, and protocols, established by the Centers for Disease Control and Occupational Safety and Health Administration, carry out infection control procedures, cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of instruments.
- Ensure operatory supplies remain stocked and coordinate routine equipment maintenance with the Lead Dental Assistant.
- Maintain clinical flow by prioritizing patient needs.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic Life Support Certification
- At least one year of Dental or Healthcare experience
- Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) dental assisting program
- Certified Dental Assistant
- Expanded Function Dental Assistant active certification-Restorative, Fixed or Removable.
- Nitrous Certification
- Spanish speaking
- Possess knowledge of dental practices, procedures, and the proper use of dental care devices and equipment.
- Demonstrate success in customer service or patient services, preferably in a medical or dental care facility.
- Proficient in computer skills including scheduling, word processing, and reasonable keyboard skills.
