The Dental Assistant is responsible for assisting dentists and hygienists in direct primary care dental services, including operatory preparation, sterilization, and inventory control of dental supplies. Key duties involve gathering patient information, preparing treatment rooms, taking X-rays, and providing direct patient support during exams and procedures.
Requirements summary
Minimum Qualifications
require Dental Assistant Certification, dental x-ray certification, knowledge of dental procedures, a High School Diploma or GED, and current CPR Certification. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with positive interpersonal relationship skills, are also mandatory for this role.
high schoolprofessional certificateInterpersonal SkillsCommunication SkillsCPR CertificationInstrument SterilizationEquipment MaintenanceInventory MonitoringOral Hygiene EducationPatient Flow MonitoringDental X-raysMaterial PreparationPatient Information GatheringInfection Control GuidelinesTreatment Plan UpdatesDental History DocumentationSuction Hoses OperationAftercare Calls
Dedication – Employee affirms the hope and joy of the DePaul Community Health Centers’ mission
Job Description
A full or part-time non-exempt position responsible for assisting the dentist(s) and dental hygienist(s) in the direct provision of primary care dental services to the patients of DePaul Community Health Centers. The dental assistant is also responsible for the operatory preparation, sterilization, preparation, and inventory control of dental instruments and supplies. The dental assistant will operate clinically under the direction of the dentist and dental hygienist and will be under the direct supervision of the Dental Assistant Supervisor and the Dental Director.
Duties & Responsibilities
Gather patient information and health background and documenting in patient records.
Pulls up patient dental and relevant medical history for the dentist to refer to during examination.
Prepares patients for dentists.
Provides patient care and support.
Prepares the treatment room for patient treatment as per department protocols and the direction of the dentist or the dental hygienist.
Takes X-rays of patient’s teeth in accordance with state regulation as well as department directive and protocol.
Sterilize dental instruments and equipment and maintain all dental equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and department procedures and protocol.
Assists dentist by using suction hoses and other equipment, maintaining a clear field during exam and procedures
Assists dentist by handing them instruments and equipment, taking notes when needed
Educates patients on good oral hygiene habits
Prepares materials for crowns or dental impressions
Updates patient records and treatment plans as directed by dentist
Directs patients and maintains schedule
Stocks treatment areas and monitoring inventory
Calls patients for aftercare and answers questions on procedures and follow-up treatment appointments
Assists patients in resolving minor difficulties, answering the questions and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist or dental hygienist.
Performs independent procedures as delegated and directed by the dentist in accordance with state regulation and law and department directive and protocol.
Monitors patient schedule daily to ensure adequate and efficient patient flow.
Follows Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, ADA and CDC Infection Control Guidelines and department procedures and protocols.
Ensures proper disposal of all contaminated or potentially contaminated material in accordance with department directives, center policy and state and federal regulations.
Assists with various clinical and administrative functions as appropriate.
Attends mandatory training, staff and safety meetings and participates appropriately.
Uses time wisely and maintains a courteous and professional demeanor at all times.
Performs other duties as assigned or directed.
Physical demands
Moderate physical effort required to include sitting, standing, walking and twisting/bending. Grasping reaching and repetitive hand/wrist movements are routine. Employees may be required to work different sites as scheduled to accommodate the needs of various sites.
Work environment
Potential occasional exposure to low dose radiation hazards, hazardous chemicals and body fluids and waste. Personal protective equipment provided. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases.
Minimum Qualifications
Dental Assistant Certification, dental x-ray certification and knowledge of dental procedures.
