What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at West Texas Pediatric Dentistry?
Dental Assistant
We are looking for a motivated individual eager to work in a fast-paced environment who can follow a learn-as-you-go method of working. The ideal candidate must enjoy working with both children and parents and either has experience as a Dental Assistant or is a fast learner. We also hope to add a team member who is eager to advance their career and knowledge in dentistry. We offer friendly hours and a close-knit team with a flexible schedule. Pay rate is $19-$23 / hr commensurate with experience and / or education.
Reports to : Doctor and Director of Operations
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for assisting the dentist in the clinical treatment of patients
SPECIFIC DUTIES
Patient Management
o Greet patients when they sign in and monitor arrival time
o Set up treatment rooms for procedures
o Escort patients to treatment room
o Seat patients in treatment rooms
o Show care and concern, and help patients feel comfortable
o Obtain and review health histories according to office protocol
o Ensure patients are always attended
o Anticipate and assist dentist’s needs
o Perform expanded functions and other tasks as assigned by the dentist
o Mix dental materials
o Ensure patients’ questions are answered thoroughly before they leave
o Chart patients and record date, service rendered and any charges
o Escort patients from the treatment room
o Ensure proper treatment notes are recorded in patient’s chart
o Perform clinical procedures as practice act allows and as directed by dentist
o Give patient instruction and demonstrate when necessary
o Monitor patient flow
o Notify team if a patient should be called in the evening after a difficult appointment
Treatment Room Management and Sterilization
o Keep dental units ready, stocked and clean
o Oversee cleanliness of the treatment room according to sterilization procedures
o Disinfect treatment rooms according to OSHA regulations
o Sterilize all instruments and handpieces according to OSHA regulations
o Keep trays, instruments and treatment room drawers organized
o Ensure that office sterilization procedures document is on display
o Promptly send out and monitor all dental laboratory cases
o Implement the preventative maintenance / cleaning schedule for dental equipment
o Maintain dental office emergency kits and nitrous and oxygen tanks
o Follow laboratory procedures according to office protocol
Records Management
o Securely store and handle patient records in compliance with state and federal requirements, including the HIPAA privacy and security regulations
o Accurately file patient information
o Arrange patient charts and radiographs for next day’s appointments
o Track cases and referrals to and from other doctors
o Assist in the administration of the recall system
Inventory Management
o Monitor inventory and order dental office supplies as needed
o Ensure that treatment rooms are stocked at all times
Office Participation
o Help in other areas of the office when necessary (i.e., answering phones, unpacking supplies, completing insurance forms, moving former patient records, etc.)
o Be an active participant in team meetings
o Promote team concept by interacting with others in the office
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
Education / Experience
o High school diploma or equivalent
o Graduate of accredited dental assisting program or dental assisting experience preferred
o Coursework in dental instruments and procedures
o Compliance with state dental practice requirements (e.g., x-ray requirements, OSHA training)
o Ability to learn PMS
o Commitment to CE for career development
Interpersonal
o Good interpersonal skills to maintain effective rapport with patients, dentists, other staff members and community
o Effective verbal skills to communicate with patients and staff
Salary : $19 - $23