DENTAL ASSISTANT

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: 

This position is vital in the dental care delivery system.  This is traditionally the patient’s first clinical point of contact so patient relationship, management of patient care, management of patient information, team communication, and demonstration of conduct and activities using patient centered medical home principles, policies and procedures is critical. In addition, will be the primary dental assistant to facilitate Pedi –Dental project. Always supports the vision and the mission of the Clinic. 

Monday through Friday, 7:45-5pm, Saturday 7:45-3pm with rotated schedule.

(A.M. Rover will arrive at 7:30am and NO Later)  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: (with or without accommodations)

Patient relationship: Will greet and welcome the patient in a pleasant, respectful, culturally and linguistically appropriate manner. Assure all patient questions are answered in a positive and cordial manner.  Assures the patient has a clear understanding of all communications. Communicate patient’s problems/complaint to the dentist or hygienist. Reinforce to the patient the importance of keeping appointments or communicating changes in their appointments. Under the direction of the supervising dentist, will ask the required questions for a proper assessment.

Management of patient care: Prepare patients for examination and treatment. Prepare examination and treatment rooms. Prepare, select and handle all dental instruments or materials pertaining to the planned treatment. Assist the dentist during procedures, including passing instruments, getting supplies and using the appropriate armamentarium to keep the patient's mouth clear and dry during procedures. May instruct patients or care giver the planned treatment and patient education.  Expose and develop radiographs as prescribed by the dentist. Carry out expanded duties as permitted by current TSBDE rules.  Assist with dental lab work.

Manage patient information: Take patient’s history and vital signs and record information for the Dentist to reference. Take and document patient history and vital signs.  Review chart under the direction of Dentist or Hygienist and obtain and place results in chart.  Assure patient record is completed timely and is current.  Adhere to all HIPAA regulations in and outside of the Clinic.  Communicate patient information as requested to enhance patient services.  Maintain logs on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.

Teamwork: Actively participates in team meetings to facilitate maximum appointments and same day access.  Meet with the team to ensure that the dentist’s productivity and schedule are reviewed and populated throughout the day. Help in the orientation of new employees or students. Work with unit team members as well as other personnel to ensure a smooth patient flow and minimize gaps in the day. Communicate specific patient needs and/or population management information. Approach patient care as a team by involving clinical and non-clinical staff to achieve patient care objectives.

Demonstrate safe and professional conduct: Will adhere to all infection control measures and maintain a sterile environment for patient by cleaning, packaging, and sterilizing dental instruments following treatment, and by disinfecting any contaminated surfaces. Must wear gloves, mask, eye wear and protective clothing. Must always adhere to a professional appearance in dress, and behavior/conduct. Familiarize themselves with safety procedures to minimize risks associated with equipment such as x-ray machines. Responsible for their own safety as well as the safety of others. Adhere to and practice proper department cell phone policy. Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with clinic leave policy and performs related or other duties assigned. Submit required documentation in a timely manner (credentialing requirements, license renewals, certifications, Continuing Education attendance, etc.).

POSITION DIRECTLY SUPERVISED:  None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: (use of equipment, job related knowledge, language, etc.)

Knowledge of PCMH Model

Knowledge of SC policies and procedures.

Knowledge of dental instruments, equipment and materials and their uses.

Knowledge of sterilization methods and x-ray film development techniques.

Knowledge of dental terminology.

Knowledge of oral hygiene.

Knowledge in providing effective Customer Service on a daily basis.

Knowledge of computer software (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.) programs.

Knowledge in the use of electronic mail.

Skilled in the use of a computer.

Skilled in the use of dental instruments and equipment.

Ability to read, write and spell accurately.

Ability to maintain an effective and professional working relationship with the public and co-workers.

Able to bend, stretch, stoop, stand, sit, and lift.

Able to lift 20 lbs.

Able to operate a keyboard, telephone, and other office equipment.

Ability to communicate in English and Spanish.

Ability to maintain a positive work environment.

Ability to work in a fast paced environment.

Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule.

Ability to maintain client and office confidentiality.

Ability to train others and to assist staff in performing dental procedures.

Ability to fully comply with the enhanced infection control requirements of the clinic.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/CERTIFICATES/LICENSES/REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED: High school or GED. Experience in working with the public. Must be registered by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. Certified by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is preferred. Must be current with BLS/CPR. Must be Bilingual (English/Spanish). This position will require an initial N95 mask fit test and annual thereafter unless there is a significant change during the year that requires retest prior to the annual fit test.              

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: Due to the nature of SC Services, it may be necessary for employees to work extended hours or other variations of the usual shift to ensure adequate care to patients and to maintain service to the community.

This position requires travel.  Employee must provide own transportation.  If employee operates a personal vehicle in the performance of their duties the employee must possess a current valid Texas Driver’s license for appropriate vehicle and Texas liability insurance.  Position requires driving record be verified with law enforcement.