Ortho Dental Assistant
Location: Lancaster Practice (Salem) | Position Type: Full-Time (30 Hours)
About the Role
With emphasis on patient comfort and satisfaction, the orthodontic dental assistant must be proficient with general assisting (orthodontic and/or Invisalign experience preferred) to provide the Orthodontist with assistance in the delivery of dental care and service in order to achieve the best possible treatment for the patient. Perform all dental procedures permitted consistent with the applicable state laws and regulations.
Responsibilities
- Change orthodontic wires, appliances and other apparatus’ as directed by the orthodontist.
- Prepare and maintain instruments, equipment and materials for all dental procedures, while ensuring our patients are as relaxed and comfortable as possible.
- Counsel patients in post-operative care and general oral health, as well as demonstrate an understanding of evidence-based dentistry.
- Take dental radiographs and upload to axiUm.
- Ask about the patient’s medical history and take blood pressure and pulse.
- Take impressions of patients’ teeth for study casts; pour and trim patient study models as needed.
- Clean and sterilize all instruments used in accordance with Company policies and OSHA/WISHA regulations described in the protocol manual.
- Maintain clean and organized sterilization area.
- Wear protective clothing, gloves, masks and eyewear.
- Strict adherence to Willamette Dental’s Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) policy, including the use of N95 respirators and other PPE as required.
- Flexibility to travel to other WD locations within a reasonable range as described in the Travel Policy as needed based on business need.
- Reliable and predictable attendance is essential.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED and credentials to function as a Dental Assistant per state requirements.
- Graduation from an ADA accredited dental assisting program or an approved dental assisting program with externship (desired).
- Holds appropriate credentials per state regulations:
- In Oregon – current Oregon certification for Dental Radiology Proficiency; Oregon EFODA (Expanded Function Orthodontic Dental Assistant) within 90 days of hire.
- In Washington – Registered Dental Assistant at hire.
- In Idaho – EFDA (Expanded Function Dental Assistant) preferred.
- Sealant certification.
- Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers.
Pay
Expected hourly hiring range: $23.00 to $36.00 USD. The actual base pay offered will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to education, job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. This position is also eligible for incentive pay in accordance with the terms of the Company’s plan.
Schedule
3-10 hour shifts per week.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- 401(k) retirement plan with 5% match.
- Accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
- Life insurance.
- Voluntary disability insurance.
- Commuter benefits.
- Two complimentary pairs of Fig scrubs (clinical roles).
- Employee assistance program.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Eligible employees accrue a minimum of 120 PTO hours per employment year in addition to seven paid holidays annually. PTO combines vacation and sick leave and is more generous than Washington State’s Sick Leave Law. Part-time employees working less than 40 hours per week accrue PTO on a pro-rated basis.
Physical Requirements
The work is primarily performed while sitting and/or standing, but will require occasional walking, bending, stooping, and carrying light items such as papers, books, or other supplies. The incumbent uses a computer and other standard office equipment to complete tasks.