What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at Pediatric Dental Centers of Florida?
Dental Assistant:
- Location: North Lauderdale (ZIP Code 33068)
- 100% On-site
Requirements:
Education:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Graduation from an accredited Dental Assisting Program (preferred).
Certifications:
- Florida Dental Radiography Certification (mandatory).
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certification in Florida (mandatory).
Experience:
- Minimum 1 year of experience in a dental office (pediatric experience strongly preferred).
- Experience with dental software (e.g., Dentrix, Eaglesoft, Open Dental) is a plus.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Creole) (preferred).
Responsibilities:
- Greet and prepare pediatric patients for dental procedures in a calm and friendly manner.
- Assist pediatric dentists with chairside procedures including exams, cleanings, sealants, pulpotomies, crowns, and extractions.
- Take and process digital x-rays (bitewing, periapical, panoramic).
- Maintain and sterilize instruments and operatories according to OSHA and CDC guidelines.
- Provide age-appropriate education to children and parents on oral hygiene and post-operative care.
- Document procedures and patient interactions accurately in the dental record.
- Ensure infection control standards are met or exceeded.
- Monitor patient comfort and safety during treatment; offer support and reassurance to anxious children.
- Take dental impressions when needed.
- Manage patient flow and support front desk staff during downtime, if needed.
Soft Skills & Attributes:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children and parents.
- Compassionate, patient, and able to de-escalate nervous behavior.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Team-oriented and proactive with a “can-do” attitude.
- Professional demeanor and reliability.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, bend, and assist with patients for extended periods.
- Manual dexterity and visual acuity required for dental assisting duties.
- Must be able to lift or move up to 25 lbs.
Preferred Additional Experience (Optional but a Plus):
- Nitrous monitoring certification.
- Knowledge of Medicaid/CHIP pediatric dental benefits.
- Prior work experience in community clinics or high-volume pediatric settings.
Salary : $17 - $20