Dental Assistant - Pediatric Dentistry

Responsibilities

• Aid dentists and dental students with pediatric dentistry procedures.
• Assist with oral health care for children with developmental disabilities.
• Administer oral sedation for pediatric patients using nitrous oxide analgesia.
• Teach DAU concepts and principles to dental students.
• Explain and demonstrate procedures and appropriate oral hygiene products to patients and parents.
• Perform a pumice (rubber cup) prophylaxis for coronal surfaces.
• Expose and process radiographs as needed.
• Restock supplies and assist RDHs as necessary.
• Prepare instruments for sterilization and sterilize selected instruments under OSHA guidelines.
• Perform routine daily maintenance of dental equipment.
• Inform students, faculty, and new dental assistants about clinical operation policies and procedures.
• Set up trays and equipment for pediatric dentistry procedures.
• Mix materials, pour impressions, and trim models as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Completion of a CODA accredited dental assistance program or one-year full-time equivalent experience in four-handed method dentistry.
• Current certificate of registration to practice as a dental assistant issued by the Iowa Board of Dental Examiners (QDA).
• Current Iowa certificate of proficiency in dental radiography (QDA).
• May require Expanded Functions (EF-1 and/or EF-2) based on specific needs assigned by provider.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children.
• Fluency in Spanish.
• Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills.
• Desirable knowledge of dental assisting skills.
• Certified Dental Assistant.