DENTAL ASSISTANT DS-06

Description

Position Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Dentist, the dental assistant supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment room, patient, instruments, and materials; passing instruments and materials; performing procedures in compliance with the dental practice act.

Essential Functions:

1.) This position requires compliance with MSHS’ compliance standards, including the Code of Conduct, Compliance Program, and policies and procedures. Such compliance will be an element considered as part of the regular performance evaluation.
2.) Prepares treatment room for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols.
3.) Prepares patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patient. Helps patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment.
4.) Takes patient's medical history, blood pressure, pulse and blood sugar prn.
5.) Takes and develops dental radiographs and use of radiograph software (x-rays).
6.) Prepares and sterilizes instruments and equipment. Delivers instruments to treatment area; positions instruments for dentist's access; suctioning; passing instruments.
7.) Provides materials by selecting, mixing, and placing materials on instruments and in the patient's mouth.
8.) Takes impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth).
9.) Pours, trims, and polishes study casts.
10.) Maintains patient appearance and ability to masticate by fabricating temporary restorations; cleaning and polishing removable appliances.
11.) Gives instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatment procedures, such as the placement of a restoration (filling).
12.) Teaches patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
13.) Provides information to patients by answering questions and requests within scope of practice.
14.) Documents dental care services by charting in patient records.
15.) Communicates with patients; schedules appointment; makes callbacks and recalls as needed; answers the telephone.
16.) Coordinates with patients to best utilize insurance coverage to complete treatment plan.
17.) Helps dentist manage dental and medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, emergency drug and oxygen supply, and emergency telephone directory.
18.) Maintains patient confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.
19.) Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations. Protects patients and employees by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols.
20.) Serves as back up for weekly spore testing.
21.) Conserves dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.

22.) Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.

Qualifications

Position Requirements
Minimum Education and Experience
1.) Graduation from an accredited dental assistant program preferred. Certification as a dental assistant preferred.
2.) One year of clinical experience as a dental assistant required.
3.) Experience using a variety of computer programs including, but not limited to Microsoft Office products and electronic health records.
 

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
Incumbent must be able to demonstrate
1.) Proficiency in the application of dental assisting techniques.
2.) Proficient knowledge in dental health maintenance.
3.) Knowledge of commonly used medications and their effects.
5.) Ability to observe, evaluate and report reactions and changes in the physical and mental conditions or status of patients.
6.) Ability to think and act quickly in emergencies.
7.) Proficiency in the use of computer programs to include Word, Excel, other Microsoft products, and electronic health records.
8.) Working knowledge of accurate documentation and appropriate use of records.
9.) Working knowledge of HIPAA laws and ability to apply them. .
10.) Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and to relate in a positive, courteous, and caring manner to staff and the individuals seeking services.
11.) Ability to interact positively with individuals and families from a wide range of socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds as well as alternative lifestyles.
12.) Ability to work independently, remain self-motivated, and promote cooperation and cohesiveness among co-workers.
13.) Ability to work as a team member, with other staff and patients, towards the common goal of delivering quality dental health care.
General
14.) Clear background check;
15.) Current tuberculosis screening test result;
16.) First Aid, CPR and CPI (Nonviolent Crisis Intervention) certifications must be obtained when offered through the agency; may substitute current MANDT certificate for CPI.

Salary : $18 - $23