Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Lead RDA, the Dental Assistant will function as a circulating assistant in chair-side dental procedures. The Dental Assistant must be knowledgeable in all dentistry procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray set up and materials.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: (will include, but not be limited to)

1. Perform the following DA Duties:
   1. Mouth-mirror inspection of the oral cavity, to include charting of obvious lesions, existing restorations, and missing teeth.
   2. Take dental radiographs of diagnostic quality.
   3. Apply topical fluoride.
   4. Take intraoral impressions for all nonprosthodontic appliances.
   5. Place and remove rubber dams, wedges, matrices, and other isolation devices for restorative procedures.
2. Ability to set up operatory and perform all phases of four (4) handed dental assisting for endodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, and restorative procedures.
3. Familiarity with dental terminology, materials, medications and instruments used during dental procedures.
4. Ability to set up and break down the operatory in an efficient manner.
5. Clean, sterilize instruments, and set up trays.
6. Maintain clean, orderly, and well stocked operatories and laboratory.
7. Inventory and re-ordering of supplies as necessary.
8. Pouring up models and other lab procedures.
9. Instruct patients in oral hygiene and preventative dental education.
10. Accurate documentation of exam findings in electronic health record.
11. Knowledge of patient scheduling requirements.
12. Be familiar with the aims and objectives of the Health Center and express a genuine enthusiasm for its success.
13. The ability to appropriately and professionally interact with and to get along well with others is an essential function of this position.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

1. Certification in coronal polishing is required.
2. Radiation safety certification or completion of a radiation safety course approved by the California State Board of Dental Examiners is required.
3. Current CPR certification.
4. Must have the ability to work in an independent and self-directed manner and assume individual initiative. Must be willing and have the ability to accept supervision and to follow directions.
5. Must have the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; and the ability to follow oral and written instructions. Must possess sufficient written and verbal communication skills to be able to interact with patients, medical professionals, vendors, and agencies in a professional manner, developing rapport and enhancing business relationships.
6. Must possess basic skill in using computers and other office equipment; in gathering and summarizing information; preparing reports; and in planning, organizing, prioritizing, and executing continuing assignments. Must have the ability to operate our electronic health record system.
7. Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters with discretion and tact. Must have knowledge of and the ability to maintain HIPAA privacy requirements. Must sign a confidentiality statement.
8. Must have the ability to work in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment.
9. Understanding of Insurance Coverage as follows:
   1. General knowledge of Direct Care, CHS, and SHCF coverage (with training provided by TMWIHC staff); General knowledge of Medi-Cal and CMSP coverage;
   2. General knowledge of Private Insurance coverage and pre-authorization requirements;
   3. Understanding that an individuals insurance coverage does not change the recommended treatment.