Position Summary
The College of Dentistry was awarded a 3-year grant from the Otho S. A. Sprague Memorial Institute to support the launch of an Extra Help Dental Assistant Pathway Program (DAPP), an employee training program that provides young adults, community members, and other individuals interested in the oral health field with a pathway to advance their career as a dental assistant. Through a combination of asynchronous online instruction, in-person classroom lectures, and clinical rotations, participants will receive 15 weeks of foundational training that will prepare them for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination while employed at the College of Dentistry.
Duties & Responsibilities

Provides chair-side and other assistance to dental students in performing routine and surgical procedures including preparing equipment and areas for dental procedures.

Help/assist patients receiving treatment in the clinic in a polite and professional manner this includes assisting them with instructions and screening appointments.

Arranges equipment, pre-tray setups, dental materials and supplies, and patient records.

Assists supervisor in the ordering, stocking, inventory and distribution of supplies; ensures supplies and equipment are clean and put away after use.

Keep a running inventory of supplies and materials and order as necessary to ensure the areas are always equipped.

Make certain that all units/stations are prepared for patient treatment meeting OSHA requirements.

Notifying supervisors of any malfunctioning equipment in need or repairs.

Responsible for a high level of asepsis in the clinic.

Reports on malfunctioning operatory or x-ray equipment to appropriate personnel; helps identify and report general maintenance problems in the clinic.

Obtains digital x-rays, processes and mounts dental radiographs as requested.

Communicates directly with patients as guided by the student or instructors/faculty; communicates in an appropriate and positive manner to guide and re-assure patients, as well as support the patient care mission of the institution.

Prepares, organizes and packs instruments for sterilization.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.