Dental Assistant

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS: The Dental Assistant performs duties such as: prepare the patient for the treatment, assist the dentist in performing their treatment to the patient in restorative dentistry or oral surgery, prepare materials and equipment for treatment and have them ready for the dentist’s use, take x-rays and assist the dentist in laboratory work. May perform other related work to include, but not limited to, making appointments, answer the phone and ordering supplies.

Demonstrates a sincere dedication and loyalty to the philosophy and mission of Neighborhood Health.

 DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES: (Essential Functions: Duties and responsibilities noted with bullets are considered to be the essential functions of the job)

• Takes and records medical and dental histories and vital signs of patient.
• Exposes dental diagnostic x rays.
• Makes preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts.
• Pours, trims, and polishes study casts, fabricates custom impression trays from preliminary impressions, cleans and polishes removable appliances, and fabricates temporary restorations.
• Assists dentist in management of medical and dental emergencies.
• Instructs patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
• Provides postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist.
• Records treatment information in patient records.

• Ensure all patient records and related documentation are managed and maintained timely, accurately, and consistent with all HIPAA and related regulations and requirements. Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with OSHA procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Protects patients, self and employees by adhering to CDC and/or organizational infection-control policies and protocols.
• Ensures operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions and immediately notifying supervisor of any malfunctioning equipment. 
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge through continuing education; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Contributes to team effort by accomplishing shared goals 
• Demonstrate cultural competence and ability to work with staff and patients from diverse backgrounds
• OTHER DUTIES:
  • Prepare and maintain special internal and external reports as requested by Supervisor and/or Department Head.
  • Assist with developing, coordinating and recommending changes for the improvement of workflow in the program or section area.  
  • May be assigned to various project lead roles to advance the development of the department and support ad hoc needs.
  • Able to work under minimal supervision.
  • Employee will be asked to perform additional duties and take on other responsibilities as dictated by events and circumstances.

•  QUALIFICATION/EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required. 
  • Completion of Dental Assistant training required.
  • Dental Assisting National Board certificate preferred 
  • At least 2-3 years’ experience preferred in functions such as taking dental radiography, maintaining dental equipment, performing oral prophylaxis procedures, and assisting dentist in patient treatment.
  • Able to work in fast-paced setting and tolerate interruptions required
  • Comfortable working in a dental setting
  • Experience working with the population served by Neighborhood Health (e.g., Latino immigrants/refugees, clients of all ages and with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
  • Cultural competency such that the individual possesses a sensitivity, understanding and expertise in caring for persons of diverse cultures. 
  • Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills