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