Assistant, Dental

Job Summary:

The Dental Assistant performs duties such as: prepare the patient for treatment, assist the dentist in performing their treatment to the patient in all types of clinical care, prepare materials and equipment for treatment and have them ready for the dentists use, take x-rays and assist the dentist in laboratory work. May perform other related work to include, but not limited to, making appointments, answer the phone, and ordering supplies.

Job Duties:

• Greets patients in waiting area and escorts patients to the operatory.
• Assists the dentist in the administration of treatment at the chair side as required or directed by the dentist.
• Promotes an atmosphere supportive of good dental and general health by demonstrating good oral hygiene, questioning patients to ascertain home care status, instructing patients in techniques of flossing and brushing in accordance with protocol.
• Maintain a sterile and neat working environment according to current infection control procedures.
• Review the health history, make chart entries under the direction of the operator and assure completion of forms and signatures.
• Assume the responsibility associated with any expanded duties that may be delegated by the dentist.
• Familiar the patient with the aspects of their dental visits and provides support and compassion to that patient when it is needed.
• Stock operatories and maintain clinical supply inventory.
• Review daily schedule to set up appropriate trays and instruments.
• Assist in front office procedures if time allows or need is determined by the Dental Dentist.
• Supervise preventive maintenance of dental equipment.
• Serves as supply liaison. Communicates with purchasing department and vendors to assure prompt receipt of all orders.
• Assist with procedures including but not limited to:
  • Fillings
  • Extractions
  • Crown prep and finish
  • Root canals
• Promotes and believes in Health West Inc. mission statement Empowering our patients and communities by proactively providing quality, affordable, patient-centered healthcare.
• Ability to relate to the public regardless of ethnic, religion and economic status

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and/or Experience:

• High school graduate (or GED)
• Experience as a trained dental assistant preferred
• Demonstrate knowledge of dental health education subjects
• Ability to complete forms in an orderly and accurate fashion
• Able to use sound judgment
• Possess a calm disposition and the ability to work easily with people
• Ability to relate to the public in all areas (racial, ethnic, and economic)
• Willingness to participate in community events such as health fairs, etc.
• Ability to communicate in English and Spanish preferred.