POSITION TITLE: Dental Therapist Grade: M-N

RESPONSIBLE TO: Chief Dental Officer

DEPARTMENT/SITE: All Dental Sites

STATUS: Exempt, Salaried

All the criteria-based duties and standards within this document will be performed according to established policies, procedures and guidelines within the department/site and Great Lakes Bay Health Centers.

Promotes general dental health, prevents oral disease, and provides disease treatment by performing the duties outlined in this job description. The Dental Therapist works under the supervision of a licensed dentist and provides treatments within authorized scope and detailed within the signed Written Practice Agreement. Under the supervision of a licensed dentist, the Dental Therapist is responsible for the patient management quality of care, examination of patient health history, diagnosis of dental disease, the recommendation of treatment modalities, rendering those treatments, and the recording of appropriate documentation in the patient chart. Direct reporting to the Supervising dentist, in conjunction with the Chief Dental Officer (if different). Performs various clinical and administrative duties and ensures compliance with established policies and procedures. Assists in evaluation of program staff.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Provides care as part of a team, providing clinical treatments in collaboration with the supervising dentist. Manages patient dental care including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, including necessary treatment and/or referrals. Maintains effective working relationships with patients and staff members while promoting a positive atmosphere within the site. Takes (or assigns to take) diagnostic quality digital x-rays and (as needed conventional radiographs) for proper diagnosis and patient treatment.
2. Records and maintains appropriate and proper documentation in patient clinical records. Responsible for the accuracy, clarity, and proper completion of dental charting, medical history, patient vitals (blood pressure, height, weight, etc). Timely completion of chart notes, charges, and billing. Completes (or assigns hygienist to complete) periodontal charting or survey in the patient’s records.
3. Meets productivity and quality improvement goals. Works with Dental Center Coordinator and Chief Dental Officer, as well as the supervising dentist, in the proper and timely scheduling of patients.
4. Assists the Dental Center Coordinator in the supervision of all dental support personnel, including dental hygienists, etc. (not to exceed the 3 Dental Assistants and no more than 2 Dental Hygienists).
5. Maintains safe and disinfected working environment by complying with GLBHC’s Infection Control policies and other regulatory policies and infection control procedures and protocols. Wears Personal Protective Equipment in compliance with policies and protocols.
6. Participates in GLBHC Quality Assurance activities, on-call, and Provider meetings as required.

Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

1.Maintains an organized work environment.

2.Communication with parents and guardians as needed.

3.Performs other duties as assigned by the supervising dentist and Chief Dental Officer for which the dental therapist is trained.

1. Education: Must have graduated from an U.S. CODA-Accredited Dental Therapy School.

2. Licensure: Must be licensed to practice Dental Therapy in the State of Michigan. CPR Certification required.

3. Experience: Variable; ability to function independently with limited supervision. Previous experience in FQHC setting preferred.

4. Skills: Organized and detailed. Effective communication skills. Efficient typing and computer skills and experience with electronic records system. Flexible in day-to-day duties and responsibilities, and schedule.

5. Interpersonal skills: Ability to communicate effectively with, and relate to, a diverse population in a professional manner. Capable of taking initiative in day-to-day responsibilities. Excellent verbal and written skills.

6. Physical Effort: Medium

7. Hours of Work: Full time or Part Time as scheduled; Flexible and varied.

Extended hours may be required. Consistent attendance is required for this position. Telecommuting is not an option for this position.

8. Travel: Travel may be required to various GLBHC sites. Reimbursement consistent with GLBHC’s policy.

9. Skills: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

GLBHC is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and or local laws.