REGISTERED DENTAL ASSISTANT-BILINGUAL (SPANISH/ENGLISH)

About the role

Performs duties that assist the dentist and hygienist in the care and treatment of patients.

Responsibilities

• Assists patients in resolving minor difficulties, answering their questions, explaining treatment recommended by the dentist, and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist or dental hygienist.
• Serves as dentist’s chair-side assistant.
• Prepares the operatory for patient treatment as per the dentist’s directions.
• Takes digital dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and laws.
• Maintains Dental Department equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s directions and Dental Department policy and protocol; keeps a log on all inspections of equipment.
• Maintains all Dental Department areas in compliance with infection control, exposure control, and safety issues.
• Responsible for weekly spore testing of autoclave and keeping results in a log; responsible for waterline testing and ensuring sterility of water lines.
• Maintains adequate operatory supplies and compiles a list of individual item shortages for inventory control and ordering purposes.
• Receives and places necessary telephone calls consistent with professional matters, clinic business, and patient care of the Dental Department.
• Assists with various clinical and administrative functions of the clinic as appropriate.
• Ensures the sterility of all reusable dental instruments and equipment.
• Ensures the proper disposal of all contaminated or potentially contaminated materials in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Performs all functions in full compliance with the Department Exposure Control Plan, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment and Universal Precautions.
• Participates in appropriate health promotion and disease prevention activities, both on-site and off-site as required.
• Performs independent procedures as delegated and directed by the dentist in accordance with state regulation and law.
• With appropriate certifications, assists the dentist with nitrous oxide administration, coronal polishing of teeth, flossing, fluoride application, and sealant placement when requested by the dentist.
• Responsible for personal compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, and clinic rules, regulations, protocols, and procedures.
• As directed by a supervisor, performs other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED certificate.
• Completion of an accredited course in dental assisting.
• Certified Registered Dental Assistant by TSBDE for less than 2 years preferred.
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English and Spanish are required.
• Current CPR (BLS) certification required.
• Nitrous Oxide Certification preferred but not required.
• Polishing Certification preferred but not required.
• Ability to attend to multiple tasks at the same time and prioritize assignments and responsibilities to ensure compliance with established deadlines and protocols.