Dental Assistant

Job Title: Dental Assistant

Job Summary: As a dental assistant, you will work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide quality oral healthcare services to patients. Your responsibilities will include assisting with dental procedures, preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, and providing patient care and education.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assisting Dentists and Dental Hygienists:

   • Prepare patients for dental procedures by seating them and ensuring their comfort.
   • Assist dentists and hygienists during dental procedures by handing them instruments, suctioning, and providing other necessary support.
   • Perform chairside duties such as passing instruments, holding suction devices, and retracting tissues.

2. Patient Care:

   • Take and record patient medical and dental histories.
   • Prepare materials for impressions and restorations.
   • Instruct patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and provide post-operative care instructions.

3. Treatment Room Preparation:

   • Set up and sterilize dental instruments and equipment.
   • Prepare treatment rooms for patient procedures, ensuring all necessary supplies are stocked and organized.

4. Administrative Tasks:

   • Schedule patient appointments and maintain accurate patient records.
   • Handle billing and insurance claims.
   • Manage inventory and order dental supplies as needed.

5. Radiography:

   • Take and develop dental x-rays as directed by the dentist.
   • Ensure proper positioning of patients and adherence to safety protocols during x-ray procedures.

6. Infection Control:

   • Adhere to strict infection control protocols, including sterilization of instruments and disinfection of treatment areas.
   • Maintain a clean and hygienic work environment at all times.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited dental assisting program or relevant work experience.
• X-ray certification (requirements may vary by state).
• Basic knowledge of dental procedures and terminology.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work well as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling dental instruments.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Good vision and depth perception for performing dental tasks and interpreting x-rays.

Working Conditions:

• Dental assistants typically work in clean, well-lit dental offices.
• They may be exposed to infectious diseases and chemicals used for sterilization.
• Work hours may include evenings and weekends, depending on the dental practice's schedule.