Dental Assistant I

SUMMARY

This position provides various kinds of assistance to the dentist and the clinic. Work includes patient preparation, chair-side assistance, and record keeping.  Reports administratively to the Practice Manager and reports clinically to the Dentist/Dental Director.

JOB DUTIES

• Cleans and sterilizes dental equipment and instruments using autoclave according to infection control standards; cleans and disinfects dental work areas according to infection control standards.
• Stores and maintains adequate supplies in dental work areas at all times, inclusive of all related material and equipment.
• Works with potentially hazardous materials and equipment such as: x-ray equipment and chemicals, body fluids such as saliva and blood, sharp instruments, and various other chemical preparations.
• Prepares dental work area for dentist, including seating and draping patient, setting out instruments, materials, and all other items needed for procedure.
• Assists provider as chair-side assistant, passing and receiving instruments, preparing and passing materials, using oral evacuation, and providing tissue retraction.
• Reviews health history with patients, explains post-treatment instructions.
• Makes dental radiographs as prescribed by dentist (processes, mounts, and records identifying information on them).
• May evaluate finished radiographs for their diagnostic acceptability, and consulting with provider / re-taking as necessary.
• Prepares supplies, instruments, and equipment for village travel, and works overtime as needed during those trips.
• Enters basic data into computer as assigned, accesses, reads, and responds as necessary to written material and e-mail on a daily basis.
• Adheres to HIPAA regulations.
• Takes alginate impressions for models and custom trays.
• Fabricates temporary crowns.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of dental terminology and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding and sensitivity to Alaska Native culture and lifestyle, with demonstrated experience working effectively with Alaska Native population.
• Strong written, analytical, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
• Effective oral and written communications skills with sensitivity to lifestyles of targeted participants.

• Skills in operating personal computer using a variety of computer software.
• Ability to keep accurate records and produce timely and accurate written reports.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality as required for HIPAA, other regulations and organization matters.
• Ability to learn and apply program/agency operating policies and procedures.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks concurrently and meet deadlines.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships, including outside contacts.
• Ability to work independently as well as with teams.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Six (6) months previous Dental Assistant or Dental Assistant Trainee experience; OR
• Completion of a formal Dental Assistant Program.