Dental Assistant

POSITION DESCRIPTION: DENTAL ASSISTANT

SUMMARY: Under the clinical supervision of the Family Dentist, the Dental Assistant serves as a vital member of a dental healthcare team who provides essential support to dentists and other dental professionals in a clinical setting. Their role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including both clinical and administrative tasks.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Perform patient intake procedures to ensure development of an adequate dental history to include allergies/sensitivities and relevant medical history.
  • Coordinating patient arrivals and departures.
  • Assist dentist during patient examinations and various dental procedures. This includes passing instruments, holding suction devices, and providing other chairside support to the dentist.
  • Interact with patients, making them feel comfortable and helping to allay any anxieties.
  • Explain dental procedures and post-treatment care instructions to patients.
  • Take and develop dental X-rays, ensuring that images are of high quality and following radiation safety protocols.
  • Prepare tray setups for dental procedures.
  • Maintain a clean and sterile environment, including the proper sterilization and organization of instruments and equipment.
  • Ensures that the operatories are properly cleaned and equipped.
  • Provides maintenance of dental clinic equipment according to established procedures
  • Manage and update patient records, appointments, and treatment plans.
  • Schedule appointments, answer phones, respond to patient messages.

DESIRED SKILLS

  • Clinical and technical skills in dental procedures, instrument handling, and X-ray operation.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients and dental team members.
  • Attention to detail for maintaining organized patient records and a sterile clinical environment.
  • Compassion and empathy for patient care and understanding their needs.
  • Adaptability to handle unexpected situations and emergencies in a dental setting.
  • Professionalism in both appearance and demeanor.
  • Knowledge of infection control protocols and patient privacy regulations (HIPAA compliance).
  • Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling dental instruments.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a dental team.

FLSA CLASSIFICATION:  NON-EXEMPT

MININUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • Graduation from an accredited school of dental assisting.
  • One year’s experience as a dental assistant preferred.
  • Pit and fissure sealant certifications preferred
  • Nitrous and oxide monitoring certification preferred.

To apply for this job please visit texasnativehealth.formstack.com.