Dental Assistant - Intermittent

Key Essential Functions And Accountabilities Of The Job

• Greets, seats and prepares patient in appropriate treatment operatory.
• Prepares operatory in advance of appointment including instruments, radiographs, hand pieces, charts & supplies according to specialty.
• Aids at chair-side using 4-handed techniques.
• Cleans, prepares, and maintains operatories, lab, central sterilization and tray set up area.
• Prepares & maintains trays, tubs, instrument packs, mobile carts and supplies in an organized and uniform manner.
• Travels with providers to provide coverage at other clinics.

Infection Control

• Follows proper infection control protocol emphasizing universal precautions as specified in Section VII of the Oral Health Program Guide for the Indian Health Service.
• Disinfects dental treatment rooms.
• Performs instrument cleaning, sterilization/disinfection, and recirculation.

Radiology

• Properly exposes, develops and mounts radiographs demonstrating radiological competency according to the I.H.S. Radiological Health and Safety Dental Program Manual.
• If the site is electronic, able to take electronic radiographs and save them in the correct location.

Prevention

• Working knowledge of proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques.
• Provides age-appropriate recommendations on topical fluorides.
• Delivers topical fluoride and antimicrobial treatments, applies sealants and upon certification; coronal polishing.

Education, Certifications, And Licenses Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certificate of completion of Dental Assistant Training.
• Completion of Dental Assistant 1 Competency form.
• Completion of Sterilization Course.
• Indian Health Service Radiology Certificate or equivalent.
• BLS required within 90 days of start.
• Clinical Competency required within 3 months of hire and every three years.
• High Risk Competency required within 3 months of hire and every year.

Experience Required

• Completion of Dental Assistant Training OR 6 months of Dental Assistant Experience.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong oral & written communication skills.
• Advanced levels of hand & eye coordination skills.
• Working level of organizational skills.
• Ability to Communicate with patients and staff.
• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Treat patients and staff with respect.
• Work well in a team setting.

Travel Required

• Moderate: Up to 20% travel expected.

Other Duties

• Accompanies providers on village field trips throughout the year.
• In the absence of the Dental Patient Coordinator, answers the telephone, directs calls, takes messages, manages appointment book, and maintains patient flow.
• Maintains and improves professional skills and knowledge.
• Attends dental staff meetings and huddles as scheduled.
• Participates in clinic Q.I. program including dental chart audits, maintenance of autoclave records.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package including retirement, paid time off, paid parental leave, health insurance, dental, and vision benefits, life insurance and long and short-term disability, and more.