Dental Assistant

At PanCare of Florida, we're not just shaping smiles; we're transforming lives. As a Dental Assistant, you won't just be another set of hands—you'll be a cornerstone of our patients' care, making sure every visit is as comfortable and efficient as possible. If you're passionate about oral health, love working in a dynamic environment, and are ready to be an essential part of a team that makes a real difference, then we want to meet you! 

The Dental Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the dental team in delivering high-quality care to patients. This position is responsible for assisting the dentist during procedures, ensuring the dental office is organized and sanitized, preparing and sterilizing instruments, and providing patient care and education. The Dental Assistant ensures a smooth and efficient workflow within the dental practice, contributing to patient comfort and safety while adhering to health regulations and infection control standards. 

Responsibilities: 

Assists dentist during examination and treatment of patients by performing the following duties: 

• Provide diagnostic aid, including exposing and developing radiographs, taking and recording medical and dental histories, recording vital signs and taking alginate impressions and pouring study casts
• Prepare operatory, instruments, and patient for dental treatment
• Clean and sterilize (or disinfect when appropriate) instruments, equipment, operatories and laboratory as patient flow or procedures dictate
• Deliver post-operative instructions to the patient as prescribed by the dentist
• Possess a working knowledge of medical emergencies and assist in the management of them
• Assist dentist in screening and education programs, including off-site
• Assist the front desk staff when necessary to schedule patients, answer phones, and use the computer
• Restock operatories, order supplies and maintain inventory control
• Maintain dental equipment, autoclave, x-ray equipment and water system at specified intervals
• Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) will perform prophylaxis (teeth cleaning), apply fluoride treatments, provide topical anesthesia as needed, and deliver oral hygiene instructions to both the child and their parents, ensuring all procedures comply with state regulations. It is important to note that only an EFDA can perform these tasks
• End-of-day housekeeping tasks, including sterilizing dental instruments, cleaning workstations, organizing equipment, and ensuring the clinic is ready for the next day’s operations.
• Maintain clinic cleanliness and organization by ensuring patient areas, dental operatories, and common spaces are tidy and well-stocked with necessary supplies
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities:  

• Clinical Skills: Proficient in assisting with dental procedures, taking and developing x-rays, and sterilizing equipment.
• Communication: Strong verbal skills to explain procedures and provide patient education, with a compassionate approach.
• Attention to Detail: Accuracy in handling patient records and instruments during treatments.
• Organization: Efficiently managing time, scheduling, and maintaining a clean, sanitized environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with dental software and radiology equipment.
• Patient Care: Ability to comfort and assist patients, ensuring their well-being during treatments.
• Infection Control: Knowledge and adherence to safety and sterilization protocols.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to address issues and adapt to changes in patient needs or procedures.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods and perform manual tasks with precision.

Education/Experience:  

• High school graduate or equivalent
• Certification of completion of dental assistant training
• Skilled in written and oral communication
• Expanded function certification is highly recommended

Physical Demands:  

• Lifting & Carrying: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. of dental equipment and supplies.
• Standing & Walking: Prolonged periods of standing and walking during procedures and patient care.
• Bending & Reaching: Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching to assist with tasks.
• Manual Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination for handling small instruments and tools.
• Repetitive Motion: Repeated hand and arm movements during procedures and sterilization.
• Physical Stamina: Endurance to work for long periods in a fast-paced environment.

Visual & Auditory Acuity: Ability to see and hear clearly during procedures and patient interactions.

PanCare of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diversity and inclusion are key to our success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.