Lead Dental Assistant

About the role

The College of Dentistry at Texas A&M University Health Science Center in Dallas is seeking a Lead Dental Assistant to join the Clinical Affairs department. This position requires an expert level of experience and a strong commitment to supporting executives in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversees student doctor operatory set-up and breakdown, ensuring compliance with COD infection control procedures.
• Aid student doctors and attending faculty during complex dental procedures.
• Records pertinent clinic data, including blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, temperature, diagnostic aids, and other in-treatment documentation.
• Provides patient information to families, including detailed post-operative care instructions.
• Reviews patient clinic schedule and works with attending faculty to ensure workflow optimization of dental assistants.
• Ensures student doctors with most complex dental procedures receive dental assistant support first.
• Performs other clinical duties delegated by faculty or staff dentists.
• Serves as supervisor and leader of dental assisting staff in day-to-day patient care.
• Trains newly hired dental assistants; ensures they have a clear understanding of COD policies and procedures as they pertain to patient care.
• Establishes performance goals and measures to evaluate the success of supervised employees.
• Serves as liaison between Clinical Affairs and program managers of various departments within the college to ensure effective clinical functions related to patients, staff, and policy adherence to meet the COD mission of patient care and education.
• Coordinates and monitors clinic infection control and sterilization compliance as well as maintenance needs.
• Leads the team in performing routine equipment and operatory maintenance.
• Communicates operational or personnel issues with Assistant Director.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Six years of experience as a registered dental assistant in a private practice, clinic, or dental training program.
• CPR certified.
• Registered Dental Assistant.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic infection control policies and procedures.
• Organizational skills.
• Ability to manage supply and instrument inventory.
• Some college level courses or advanced educational courses in the field of dental assisting.
• Three to five years of experience as a lead dental assistant or expanded duty dental assistant.
• Supervisory experience.
• Advanced knowledge of dental terminology.