What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at Suncoast Community Health Centers, Inc.?
POSITION TITLE: DENTAL ASSISTANT
FLSA: NON-EXEMPT
Job Summary
A Dental Assistant supports the dentist and dental team by ensuring efficient operations within the dental office and enhancing patient care. The role combines clinical and administrative duties, contributing to a smooth workflow and a positive patient experience. Supervisory Responsibilities:
FLSA: NON-EXEMPT
Job Summary
A Dental Assistant supports the dentist and dental team by ensuring efficient operations within the dental office and enhancing patient care. The role combines clinical and administrative duties, contributing to a smooth workflow and a positive patient experience. Supervisory Responsibilities:
- None
- Assist the dentist during examinations and procedures by preparing instruments, materials, and patients as necessary.
- Ensure patient comfort and safety during treatments, providing clear instructions and addressing any concerns.
- Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols.
- Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance tasks as needed.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring supplies and materials are well-stocked.
- Adapt to various roles within the dental practice, including front office duties and assisting with dental radiographs.
- Collaborate with dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff to facilitate efficient workflow and patient care.
- Travel to different practice locations as required to provide staffing support.
- Provide chairside assistance in four-handed dentistry.
- Expose and develop dental radiographs.
- Perform cleaning and sterilization of dental instruments and maintenance of dental equipment and treatment areas.
- Conduct inventory of supplies and ensure the safe operation of equipment through preventative maintenance.
- Carry out associated laboratory procedures, such as pouring and trimming models and fabricating custom trays.
- Adhere to SCHC policies, including OSHA standards, HIPAA compliance, and proper PPE use.
- Perform additional tasks as needed to support the centers.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
- Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
- Must be able to effectively manage workflow and maintain high-quality standards in environments where staffing levels may be below ideal, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and collaborate with the team under pressure.
- Ability to use office equipment, including computers, copy machines, fax machines, telephones, calculators, and more.
- Proficient in dental procedures, terminology, and use of dental instruments.
- Strong knowledge of infection control protocols and sterilization techniques.
- Familiarity with dental software for managing patient records and scheduling.
- Excellent organizational skills for maintaining an efficient workspace and inventory management.
- Ability to take dental radiographs and perform related tasks.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and related software.
- Dental Assistant Diploma from an accredited dental assisting program is preferred.
- At least two years related experience preferred.
- BLS is required within three months of hire
- Ability to stand for extended periods while assisting during dental procedures and moving around the dental office.
- Strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to handle dental instruments and perform precise tasks, such as taking impressions and applying sealants.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 50 pounds, including dental materials and patient-related items.
- Ability to bend, stoop, and squat to assist with patient care and to maintain a clean and organized work environment.
- Must be able to travel to various center locations as required.
