Position Overview
This is a Part Time position - 20 hours per week
A successful Dental Assistant (unlicensed) must be passionate about healthcare and want to make a difference in others' lives while serving as a mission-driven catalyst to help Livingston Community Health deliver the highest quality of care and excellent service to our patients and their families.
The Dental Assistant (unlicensed) supports the dental care team by assisting with clinical procedures, preparing treatment areas, maintaining infection control standards, and helping ensure a positive patient experience. This position works closely with dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff to support efficient daily operations and quality patient care within the scope permitted by state law.
Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities
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Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, supplies, and equipment for patient procedures.
- Assist the dentist during examinations and dental treatments within the scope permitted by state law.
- Sterilize and disinfect instruments, equipment, and operatories in accordance with OSHA and infection control standards.
- Proper disposal of supplies in accordance with OSHA and infection control standards.
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Take and document patient information, medical histories, and treatment notes as directed.
- Take and process X-rays as directed by the dentist.
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Prepare and track dental lab cases that include the appropriate materials, instructions, and documentation for the fabrication or modification of dental appliances.
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Provide patients with basic oral hygiene education and post-treatment instructions as directed by the dentist.
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Ensure treatment rooms are clean, organized, and fully stocked.
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Maintain inventory of dental supplies and notify management of ordering needs.
Support Responsibilities
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Assist with scheduling, patient intake, chart preparation, patient referrals, and other administrative support duties as needed.
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Support a welcoming, professional, and patient-centered environment.
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Willingness to travel to all clinic locations to support quality patient care and operational needs.
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Contribute and provide support as part of the team by fostering professional staff interactions and maintaining open communication and respect across the organization.
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Demonstrate competence with the mission, vision, and values of the organization, providing quality services to the community.
- Maintain confidentiality and respect for all sensitive information and protect company assets.
- Present a positive view of the Company to the community and partners.
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Attend and actively participate in all meetings (e.g., department meetings, program meetings, staff meetings) and other activities as required or assigned.
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Comply with all Company policies and procedures, including but not limited to practicing workplace safety and reporting work-related injuries.
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Perform other work-related duties as assigned. Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any time at the direction of leadership, formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Education and Experience
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High school diploma or GED.
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Experience at an FQHC or community health setting preferred.
Certification/License
- Proof of completion for California Dental Board approved courses:
o Infection Control certificate (8-hour course)
o Dental Practice Act (2-hour course)
o Radiation safety certificate.
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Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the AHA.
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Valid Driver's License
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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Healthcare regulations & compliance related to dental.
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Basic medical terminology.
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Clinic policies, procedures, and workflows.
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Infection control and safety protocols.
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Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.
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Patient rights and confidentiality requirements.
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Cultural competency and diversity awareness in healthcare.
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Effective communication (verbal and written with patients, families, and staff).
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Customer service / patient service oriented.
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Computer proficiency (EHR systems, email, scheduling tools).
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Time management and prioritization.
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Attention to detail and accuracy.
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Team collaboration.
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Documentation and recordkeeping.
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Conflict resolution and de-escalation.
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Maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.
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Work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
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Adapt to changing priorities and workflows.
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Demonstrate empathy and compassion toward patients.
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Follow detailed instructions and comply with protocols.
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Remain calm and professional in stressful situations.
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Demonstrate reliability and accountability.