Certified Dental Assistant

Provides support to CHP dentists and dental hygienists. Cross-trained on reception at the dental practice. Supports CHP's mission, vision, and values and adheres to compliance protocols as well as CHP's policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Supports CHP dentists by assisting with instruments, seating patients, room preparation and instrument cleaning.
• Greets patients upon arrival, escorts patients from waiting room to treatment room.
• Takes patient vitals and records for dentist evaluation.
• Takes dental intra-oral radiographs.
• Gathers patient's medical history for dentist review and final documentation.
• Documents patient's current medicines, medical conditions and pre-med if needed.
• Documents patient's blood pressure, weight and smoking status.
• Provides chair-side assistance during procedures as directed by attending dentist.
• Performs lab tasks including denture and crown preparation.
• Ensures lab cases for the next day have arrived from the lab.
• Sets up, breaks down, and wipes down treatment room between patients.
• Cleans and sterilizes dental instruments.
• Follows all safety protocols set forth by CHP, Department of Public Health and OSHA.
• Answers phones as needed.
• Schedules new and established patient appointments as needed.
• May collect patient's co-pay, deductibles and treatment payments when applicable.
• Relieves and steps in for receptionist when needed.
• May be responsible to open and close front door of office at start and end of day.
• Confirms patient appointments for the upcoming days.
• Informs Dental Center Practice Manager of any irregular procedure observed by a patient or companion while in the waiting area or during intake process.
• Observes and cooperates with the security of the dental center at all times.
• Flexible schedule including some Saturday hours.
• Flexible to assist at other sites as requested.
• Other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Demonstrate ability to manage projects or tasks.
• Manage difficult or emotional patient situations.
• Respond promptly to patient needs.
• Solicit patient feedback to improve service.
• Respond to requests for service and assistance.
• Complete administrative tasks correctly and on time.
• Cover when needed and cross-train for additional administration/dental coverage or other site management as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Professional, welcoming, and pleasant personality.
• Contribute to building a positive team spirit.
• Respond well to questions.
• Take careful and accurate notes.
• Follow up on messages and ensure delivery of messages.
• Compose/type letters if requested by administration.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must be listed with the State of Massachusetts as a Registered Certified Dental Assistant.
• Front desk reception experience is a plus.
• DANB certification is required.
• Maintain a current CPR license.

Skills

• Good communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
• Spanish speaking/bilingual skills are a plus.
• Excellent computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. Database skills are a plus.
• Attend continuing education meetings to maintain license.