Dental Assistant Internship Jobs in Riverside, CA

At DAP Health, we are committed to transforming lives and advancing health equity for all. As a leading nonprofit health care provider, we deliver compassionate, high-quality care to the diverse communities of the Coachella Valley and San Diego County. Our comprehensive services range from primary care to mental health, wellness programs, and beyond, with a focus on those who are most vulnerable. Joining our team means becoming part of a passionate, innovative organization dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve. If you're looking for a dynamic and purpose-driven environment, we invite you to explore the opportunity to contribute to our mission.

Job Summary
Under the direction of the Director of Operations for Dental or designee, the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) will provide back-office support for the dental clinic.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform all Registered Dental Assistant duties allowed under the Dental Practice Act of California
• Prepare exam rooms between patients
• Direct patients to and from exam rooms
• Provide patient care and assistance before, during and after dental procedures
• Prepare and arrange dental instruments and equipment needed for each procedure
• Take radiographs as necessary
• Act as backup to all dental assistants at all locations, as needed
• Process used dental instruments and equipment to include receiving, cleaning, wrapping, and sterilization of semi-critical and critical items
• Maintain dental rooms to be clean and well-stocked
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene
• Perform routine dental cleanings
• Perform dental sealants
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action
• Work efficiently and accurately in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities
• Consistently act in a professional and courteous manner, help establish and maintain the highest service standards for the dental clinic, and comply with DAP Health’s policies and procedures
• Ensure patient safety
• Gather, record, and update patients’ health information and history as needed
• Assist with the patient flow during clinic hours
• Check equipment to ensure proper functioning
• Demonstrate an understanding of and adhere to safety and infection control policies and procedures
• Demonstrate an understanding of and adhere to privacy, confidentiality, and security policies and procedures related to Protected Health Information (PHI) or other sensitive and personal information
• Show sensitivity to differences in culture and provide service in a way that patients/families/colleagues perceive as positive and supportive
• Maintain positive working relationships with all DAP Health Dental Clinic staff to ensure the continuity of care to all patients
• Access patient-protected health information as required
• Interface effectively in a team environment with agency staff, interns, and volunteers
• Handle crisis and stressful situations in an effective, calm, and respectful manner
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Skills/Abilities

• Knowledge of dental assistant procedures, treatment planning, principles and methods of sterilization
• Knowledge of Digital X-ray and Electronic Dental Records required
• Ability to:
  • Interpret client files and dental charts
  • Learn and navigate through the Epic system
  • Have basic computer skills
  • Comprehend and follow oral and written directions
  • Maintain a professional and courteous demeanor with all individuals
  • Read, write, and communicate in English
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with all levels of individuals
• Bilingual in Spanish/English preferred

Education and Experience

• Registered Dental Assistant Certificate – Completion of a Dental Assistant accredited program or school
• Xray License Certificate
• Coronal Polishing Certificate
• Dental Sealant Certificate
• Current American Heart Association or American Red Cross accredited Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
• Minimum of (1) year experience as a dental assistant preferred

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 24 pounds
• Operates in a clinical setting at times and requires frequent times of sitting, standing, walking, repetitive motion, and talking
• Involves contact with patients or patient specimens. Exposure to blood, body fluids, and non-intact skin or tissue specimens is required
• Handling of biohazardous materials required