Dental Assistant

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

 

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Job Description

BASIC FUNCTION:                  

Under the supervision of the Dentist, the Dental Assistant is responsible for a wide range of tasks in the dental office.  The Dental Assistant position is the most flexible and requires a diverse set of skills: clinical, clerical, interpersonal, and technological and more.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:                  

Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.

NATURE AND SCOPE:            

External contacts include a variety of third-party payers, healthcare organizations, students, faculty, patients and other healthcare personnel.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Prepares assigned clinics for sessions as per clinical dentistry protocols.

           

Prepares treatment room for patient and students by following prescribed procedures and protocols for assigned clinic.

Prepares patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patient as needed for assigned clinic.

Provides information to patients and employees by answering questions and requests.

Provides instrumentation by sterilizing and delivering instruments to treatment area; positioning instruments for dentist's access; suctioning; passing instruments (when chairside assisting)

Provides materials by selecting, mixing, and placing materials on instruments and in the patient's mouth.

Provides diagnostic information by exposing and developing radiographic studies, pouring, trimming, and polishing study casts.

Helps dentist manage dental and medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, emergency drug and oxygen supply, and emergency telephone directory.

Educates patients by giving oral hygiene, plaque control, and postoperative instructions when needed.

Documents dental care services by charting in patient records per clinical protocols.

Maintains patient confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.

Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.

Protects patients and employees by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols.

Ensures operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques.

Maintains dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.

Conserves dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.

Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.

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