Description:
Position Summary:
The Dental Assistant provides chairside and clinical support to dentists in a fast-paced community health center environment. This role assists with patient care, prepares and maintains treatment areas, and ensures patient comfort and safety.
All duties are performed under the supervision of a licensed dentist in accordance with the Kentucky Dental Practice Act.
Expanded duties may be assigned to individuals with EDDA/EFDA certification as permitted by state regulations.
Requirements:
Dental Assistant (Core Duties)
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Work under the direct supervision of dentists regarding patient care.
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Welcome patients, taking vital signs, reviewing medical history, and preparing them for dental procedures.
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Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for procedures.
- Sterilize instruments, set up trays with necessary tools, and ensuring proper infection control protocols are followed.
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Assist dentist chairside, maintaining a clear operating field (suction, retraction, air/water).
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Take dental radiographs (with Kentucky certification) ensuring proper positioning and technique.
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Mix dental materials (cements, composites, etc.) and assist with placement as directed.
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Providing oral hygiene instructions, demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques, and explaining post-operative care.
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Maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance benefits, and completing necessary paperwork.
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Participating in community health initiatives to promote dental awareness and access to care.
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Maintain cleanliness and organization of operatories.
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Comply with HIPAA, OSHA, and infection control standards.
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Perform other duties as assigned.
Expanded Duties (EDDA/EFDA)
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Perform coronal polishing.
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Take impressions of teeth for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
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Apply permanent restorations to prepared teeth.
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Apply topical fluoride and sealants on teeth.
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Clean and polish the visible surfaces of teeth after dentist or hygienist scale.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
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High school diploma or GED.
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One year of dental assisting experience.
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Kentucky radiography certification (or ability to obtain within six months of hire).
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Current CPR certification or ability to obtain.
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EDDA/EFDA: Completion of EDDA training program.
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Knowledge of dental terminology and procedures.
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Ability to work well in a team environment.
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Strong attention to detail.
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Excellent communication skills.
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Proficiency in taking dental x-rays.
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Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
