Dental Assistant w/ X-ray

Job Summary

Schedule: Monday - Friday, no weekends

About the Role

An Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) is a highly trained and skilled dental professional who assists dentists in providing advanced chairside support and performing additional clinical duties to enhance the efficiency and quality of dental care delivery. EFDA's have received specialized education and certification to perform expanded functions beyond the scope of traditional dental assisting, under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

Responsibilities

• Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for dental procedures, ensuring a clean, organized, and sterile environment.
• Aid the dentist during dental procedures, including operative, restorative, endodontic, periodontic, and oral surgery procedures, by providing chairside support and anticipating the dentist’s needs.
• Comfort and reassure patients before, during, and after dental treatment, addressing their questions, concerns, and apprehensions to promote a positive dental experience.
• Perform expanded functions authorized by state regulations and within the scope of EFDA training and certification, such as placing and contouring dental restorations (e.g., amalgam, composite fillings), placing and removing temporary crowns, and taking preliminary impressions.
• Assist with the placement and removal of periodontal dressings, dental dams, and other dental appliances as directed by the dentist.
• Administer local anesthesia, fluoride treatments, and other topical agents as allowed by state laws and dentist supervision.
• Take dental radiographs (X-rays) as directed by the dentist, following prescribed techniques and safety protocols to produce high-quality images for diagnostic purposes.
• Process and mount dental X-rays, maintain radiographic records, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for radiation safety and protection.
• Perform sterilization and disinfection procedures for dental instruments, equipment, and operatory surfaces according to established infection control protocols and regulatory standards.
• Monitor sterilization equipment, maintain sterilization logs, and perform biological and chemical monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of sterilization processes.
• Provide oral hygiene instructions, dietary counseling, and preventative care recommendations to patients to promote optimal oral health and prevent dental diseases.
• Demonstrate proper tooth brushing, flossing, and other oral hygiene techniques, using educational materials and visual aids to reinforce patient understanding and compliance.
• Assist with patient scheduling, appointment reminders, and billing procedures as needed, using dental practice management software to maintain accurate patient records and financial transactions.
• Complete clinical charting, treatment documentation, and procedural notes accurately and promptly, in compliance with legal and professional standards.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited dental assisting program and attainment of state licensure or certification as a dental assistant
• Additional training and certification as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFSA) through an accredited program or continuing education courses.
• Knowledge of dental assisting techniques and infection control practices.
• Proficiency in dental radiography techniques and certification in dental radiography as required by state regulations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other members of the dental team.
• Attention to detail, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and privacy.
• Adherence to ethical standards, state regulations, and guidelines established by the American Dental Association (ADA) and other relevant professional organizations.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Choice of five comprehensive Aetna medical plans, including options with low copays, deductible-sharing, and national provider networks.
• Dental Insurance: MetLife plans offering preventative, basic, major, and orthodontic coverage options.
• Vision Insurance: Davis and UHC vision plans with annual exams, eyewear allowances, and contact lens benefits.
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts: Pre-tax savings accounts for medical, dependent care, and healthcare expenses.
• Life & Disability Insurance: Employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance, with voluntary life, short-term, and long-term disability plans.
• Additional Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Identity Theft & Fraud Protection, Legal Support Services, Discount Programs (including pet insurance, travel, theme parks, electronics, etc.), Wellness Programs, Financial Wellness and Planning Tools.

Physical/Mental Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Our culture encourages individual development, embraces an inclusive environment, rewards innovative excellence, and leads in provider and patient satisfaction. ProSmile values diversity, inclusion, and equity as matters of fairness and effectiveness. We are committed to hiring and retaining a staff that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, fostering an inclusive working environment where staff of all backgrounds feel welcomed and engaged.