JOB DESCRIPTION

Position:  DENTAL ASSISTANT

Reports to: Dental Assistant Supervisor

Department: Dental

Status: Full-time/Part-time/Non-Exempt

Classification: Permanent

EEO Code: Service Worker

DEPAUL COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS CORE VALUES:

• Service of the Poor – Employee demonstrates generosity of spirit, especially for persons most in need

• Reverence – Employee demonstrates respect and compassion for the dignity and diversity of life

• Integrity – Employee inspires trust through personal leadership

• Wisdom – Employee integrates excellence and stewardship into execution of job duties

• Creativity – Employee demonstrates courageous innovation

• Dedication – Employee affirms the hope and joy of the DePaul Community Health Centers’ mission

JOB DESCRIPTION

A full or part-time non-exempt position responsible for assisting the dentist(s) and dental hygienist(s) in the direct provision of primary care dental services to the patients of DePaul Community Health Centers.  The dental assistant is also responsible for the operatory preparation, sterilization, preparation, and inventory control of dental instruments and supplies. The dental assistant will operate clinically under the direction of the dentist and dental hygienist and will be under the direct supervision of the Dental Assistant Supervisor and the Dental Director.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gather patient information and health background and documenting in patient records.

• Pulls up patient dental and relevant medical history for the dentist to refer to during examination.

• Prepares patients for dentists.

• Provides patient care and support.

• Prepares the treatment room for patient treatment as per department protocols and the direction of the dentist or the dental hygienist.

• Takes X-rays of patient’s teeth in accordance with state regulation as well as department directive and protocol.

• Sterilize dental instruments and equipment and maintain all dental equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and department procedures and protocol. 

• Assists dentist by using suction hoses and other equipment, maintaining a clear field during exam and procedures

• Assists dentist by handing them instruments and equipment, taking notes when needed

• Educates patients on good oral hygiene habits

• Prepares materials for crowns or dental impressions

• Updates patient records and treatment plans as directed by dentist

• Directs patients and maintains schedule

• Stocks treatment areas and monitoring inventory

• Calls patients for aftercare and answers questions on procedures and follow-up treatment appointments

• Assists patients in resolving minor difficulties, answering the questions and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist or dental hygienist.

• Performs independent procedures as delegated and directed by the dentist in accordance with state regulation and law and department directive and protocol.

• Monitors patient schedule daily to ensure adequate and efficient patient flow.  

• Follows Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, ADA and CDC Infection Control Guidelines and department procedures and protocols.

• Ensures proper disposal of all contaminated or potentially contaminated material in accordance with department directives, center policy and state and federal regulations.

• Assists with various clinical and administrative functions as appropriate.

• Attends mandatory training, staff and safety meetings and participates appropriately.

• Uses time wisely and maintains a courteous and professional demeanor at all times.

• Performs other duties as assigned or directed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Moderate physical effort required to include sitting, standing, walking and twisting/bending.  Grasping reaching and repetitive hand/wrist movements are routine. Employees may be required to work different sites as scheduled to accommodate the needs of various sites.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Potential occasional exposure to low dose radiation hazards, hazardous chemicals and body fluids and waste. Personal protective equipment provided.  May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Dental Assistant Certification, dental x-ray certification and knowledge of dental procedures.

• High school diploma or GED.

• Possess current CPR Certification.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Positive interpersonal relationship skills required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

2 years of experience in a dental office or clinic setting.  Prior experience with electronic dental records.