Responsible for assisting the Dentist in the clinical treatment of patients by providing high quality care.
II. Essential Functions/Responsibilities:
Greet, escort and seat patients for appointment to and from treatment rooms ensuring proper set up procedures.
Obtain and review health history according to office procedures.
Perform expanded functions and other task as assigned by the Dentist (as allowed by state regulations) and Clinical Coordinator.
Mix dental materials.
Provide patient instructions and ensure all patients’ questions are answered thoroughly before they leave providing demonstration when necessary.
Chart all patients and record date and service rendered.
Ensure proper treatment notes are records in patient’s chart.
Monitor patient flow.
Notify Clinical Coordinator if a patient should be called in the evening after a difficult appointment.
Check to ensure that dental units are ready, stocked, and clean at all times
Oversee cleanliness of the treatment room according to sterilization procedures
Follow laboratory procedures according to office procedures
Assemble soiled instruments, place in sterilization area, and sort / package instruments by tray for proper sterilization
Clean operatory surfaces with disinfectant solution according to OSHA regulations
Load, activate, and vent the sterilization unit according to manufacturer’s directions and OSHA regulations
Store sterilized instruments and trays in appropriate places
Dispose of biohazard material and Developer/Fixer according to OSHA and Office Procedures
See that records are stored securely and handled in compliance with legal requirements, including the HIPAA privacy and security regulations if applicable
Accurately combine chart and notes with larger patient information
Complete X-Ray Log as appropriate
Know location of and how to use MSDS Log
Provide referral to and from other doctors to guardian as instructed by Dentist
Promote team concept by interacting with others in the office
Monitor inventory and provide list dental office supplies needed to Clinical Coordinator
Ensure that treatment rooms are stocked at all times
Help in other areas of the office when necessary (i.e., phones, unpacking supplies, completing insurance forms, moving dismissed patient records, general office appearance, etc.)
Promote team concept by interacting with others in the office
May be asked to participate in local marketing activities (Health Fairs, School Presentations, etc.)
III. Dental Assistant Qualifications / Skills:
Dental health maintenance
Use of dental technology
Infection control
Patient services
Creating a safe, effective environment
Listening
Teamwork
Bedside manner
Health promotion and maintenance
Use of medical technologies
Performing diagnostic procedures
III. Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree preferred
1+ years in a dental office
Experience with EMR (electronic medical records), medical terminology a plus