Dental Assistant

About the Role

The Dental Assistant will understand and model the mission of NSO, practice confidentiality regarding all NSO information, exhibit professional behavior, and demonstrate teamwork with all staff. The role involves working with the dentist and team members to enhance the efficiency of quality oral health care by performing tasks that require both interpersonal and technical skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures
• Take digital x-rays using snap-a-ray sensor holders
• Review patient medical history and take blood pressure and pulse
• Work closely with the infection control officer to develop infection control protocol
• Prepare and sterilize instruments and dental equipment
• Ensure patients feel comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment
• Provide patients with written post-treatment care instructions
• Apply topical drugs as prescribed by the dentist
• Take impressions of patients’ teeth for study casts
• Assist with supply orders by communicating with the office manager or dental supplier
• Schedule follow-up appointments with the dentist and patient
• Place or remove celluloid, plastic, or metallic strips between teeth for fillings
• Place or remove rubber dams under dentist supervision
• Provide suction/evacuation during procedures
• Maintain patient charts, clinic progress notes, and NSO clinic records
• Perform other assigned duties

Requirements

• Must effectively communicate in English orally and in writing
• Valid dental assisting permit from the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry
• X-ray certification
• Ability to obtain Nitrous certification within 6 months of hire
• Coronal polishing and Fluoride application certification preferred
• Sealant application certification preferred
• Valid Healthcare Provider CPR certification
• Experience working with the homeless and underserved population is preferred
• Clearance of background check and drug screen (this is a Safety Sensitive Position under the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Act)

Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of dental office and chair-side assisting practices, procedures, and techniques
• Considerable knowledge of dental terminology and charting practices
• Knowledge of principles and practices of dental health promotion and prevention
• Some knowledge of Federal and OSHA regulations for dental clinics
• Intermediate computer skills; knowledge of Eaglesoft software and digital x-rays preferred
• Ability to work independently as well as with a team
• Strong oral and written communication skills in English
• Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality
• Cultural sensitivity to the needs of medically indigent populations
• Ability to respond to new client needs
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic clinical environment and handle multiple demands

Working Conditions

• Requires lifting supply boxes up to 30 lbs.
• Majority of time spent in a well-lighted, climate-controlled indoor office setting
• Work in close proximity to others with limited personal space
• Potential exposure to radiation, biohazards, and communicable diseases
• May encounter conflict situations with rude or unpleasant individuals
• Work is performed while walking or standing for much of the time
• Occasional periods of high stress

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:15 AM–5:00 PM, with one Saturday per month.