Dental Assistant (RCCF)

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily completion of dental clinic operations to include, but not limited to, scheduling, tool control, chemical control, infection control practices, biohazardous waste, hazardous materials and radiation control, and exposure control regulations;
• Expose digital x-rays which include periapicals, bitewings, and panoramic radiographs;
• Set up trays for restorative procedures;
• Educate offenders about oral hygiene;
• Sterilize instruments and equipment using an autoclave;
• Dispose of medical contaminated waste;
• Adapt to radiation safety and infection control guidelines and regulations to fit individual circumstances;
• Troubleshoot, monitor, and maintain intra-oral x-ray machines;
• Set a regular schedule to perform preventive maintenance on dental equipment and to initiate work orders;
• Maintain inventory levels of supplies & chemicals, prioritizing usage based on expiration dates and re-ordering as needed;
• Maintain cleanliness of dental clinic;
• Under direction from the dentist, plan the workload and appointment schedule of offenders to achieve maximum efficiency;
• Triage urgency of dental requests for treatment, gather information, consult with dentist and schedule appropriately;
• Arrange transport of offenders for appointments if indicated;
• Maintain suitable filing system, supply usage, expiration dates and stock levels;
• Perform and log autoclave spore strip testing per CDC and OHSA guidelines;
• May be required to travel to other facilities as needed to perform Dental Assistant services.

Requirements

• Two years of full-time, professional work experience as a Dental Assistant;
• Eligible to obtain or possess a South Dakota Dental Radiographer registration and/or Advanced Dental Assistant license;
• Receive and Maintain an AHA BLS provider certification.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of: Dental Procedures & Terminology, Radiography & Imaging, Infection Control & Sterilization, Pharmacology & Medication Handling, Basic Dental Clinic Operations Management, Health & Safety Regulations;
• Skills in: Dental Assisting & Patient Care, Communication & Teamwork, Organizational & Time Management, Problem-Solving & Adaptability, Technical Proficiency, Independent Accountability, Physical & Mental Resilience, Multitasking in a High-Stakes Environment, Maintaining Confidentiality & Professionalism, Adhering to Security Procedures, Critical Thinking Under Pressure, Physical Stamina & Dexterity;
• Physical & Mental Resilience: Ability to manage the demands of the role, including participation in self-defense training and emergency protocols.