Dental Assistant - Orthodontics

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 and supplies
• Assists at chair-side using 4-handed techniques including tissue retraction, operatory air/water syringe and high-speed evacuation, passing instruments, preparing dental materials, maintaining dry field, etc.
• Verbally relays post treatment instruction to patients
• Records examination results using proper charting protocol; completes progress notes when appropriate
• Responsible for basic laboratory procedures including custom acrylic trays fabrication, occlusal guard fabrication, pouring and trimming of diagnostic casts
• Cleans, prepares, and maintains operatories, lab, central sterilization and tray set up area
• Performs routine basic maintenance of dental equipment hand pieces, autoclave, automatic x-ray developer, high-speed evacuation etc.
• Takes impressions and bite registrations
• Places and removes orthodontic ligatures, bands, separators and appliances as directed by treating dentist

Other Functions

• Accompanies dentist on village field trips throughout the year
• Participates in Community Prevention activities i.e. school screening, Headstart, Oral Health Programs, Health Fairs etc.
• In the absence of the receptionist, answers the telephone, directs calls, takes messages, manages appointment book, and maintains patient flow

Additional Details

• Education, Certifications, and Licenses Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • CPR certificate preferred
  • BLS required within 90 days of start
  • Clinical Competency required within 3 months of hire and every 3 years
  • High Risk Competency required within 3 months of hire and every year
• Experience Required: None
• Knowledge of:
  • Chair Side Dental assisting
  • Dental Radiology
  • Infection Control
• Skills:
  • Strong oral & written communication skills
  • Advanced levels of hand & eye coordination skills
  • Working level of organizational skills
• Other Duties As Assigned

Position Information

• Work Shift: Exempt