Dental Assistant

Summary Job Description: Under the supervision of a dentist, the dental assistant supports the dentist in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care for dental assistants.

Responsibilities: Prepares and maintains dental instruments, supplies, and equipment. Prepares the operatory for the patient visit. Seats the patient in a chair and explains the procedures to be performed. Collects and records patient health histories. Drapes patient with protective linens; sets up instrument tray with required supplies. Prepares dental materials, cements, amalgams, composites, impression materials, etc. Takes radiographs using conventional or digital technology and follows radiation safety precautions. Assists with dental charting. Assists in the prevention and management of dental emergencies. Manages the patient during dental procedures. Provides active chairside assistance; transfers instruments as appropriate for four-handed dentistry. Places and contours amalgam and other restorative materials. Performs coronal polishing. Performs fluoride treatments, including fluoride varnish. Takes impressions for study casts, athletic mouth guards, and a custom tray. Performs laboratory procedures, including the pouring and trimming of models; polishing dental prosthetics, and making vac-u-press forms. At the conclusion of the procedure, follows proper infection control protocols and prepares the operatory for the next patient. Helps manage the dental office's infection control plan to meet all regulatory requirements. Monitors and documents the flow of laboratory cases; maintains the lab facility. Performs, monitors, and records all sterilization activities. Maintains proper aseptic techniques necessary with dental equipment; maintains and properly sterilizes instruments. Routinely cleans, disinfects, and restocks operatories. Helps manage patient flow. Maintains the inventory of supplies and reorders as necessary. Tracks and verifies invoices. Translates dental treatment, after care, and answers questions in English and Spanish from doctor to patient. Performs duties within the dental program as assigned.

Experience: Experience as a dental assistant preferred. Spanish language proficiency preferred. Experience in a community health environment serving uninsured or underinsured patients is preferred.

Education: High school diploma or GEDCPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) certification requiredA National DANB Radiation and Safety exam Certificate of Completion is required Certification in Dental Assisting is requiredPHMC is an EOE and an E-Verify Employer