Dental Assistant, Basic

Dental Assistants, or Certified Dental Assistants, are responsible for providing hands-on, chairside support to Dentists and preparing treatment rooms so they can more efficiently care for patients. They are responsible for completing patient intake and updating patient electronic dental records, sterilizing and organizing dental instruments/ equipment and assisting during dental procedures.

• Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.

• Dental assistant training or experience is preferred.

• Requires the ability to perform four handed dental assistance and the ability to work well with patients of all ages. Individual must be energetic, flexible and self-motivated with strong attention to detail, communication, teamwork, customer service and computer skills.

• This position also requires a person with the ability to use clinical assessment skills and perception to determine the needs of the patient while working with the dental provider.

• Must demonstrate excellent internal and external customer service skills. Employee must demonstrate an understanding of the intent, and follow standards, guidelines and protocols related to achieving and maintaining certifications by outside agencies.

• Must demonstrate personal and professional commitment to Eastern Shore Rural Health and its Mission Statement.

• Ability to provide bilingual patient care is a plus.

• Meets the clinical standards for a dental patient visit.

• Meets clinical standards for patients attending acute care visits.

• Provide chair-side assistance.

• Able to receive and relay accurate information between patient and provider - provider to patient; able to communicate and document accurate information with regard to medications, referrals, patient information and scheduling.

• Prepare workstation for work with instruments, proper medications, and equipment.

• Charts oral exams. Complete treatment plans as necessary.

• Exposes and archives digital radiographs.

• Performs coronal polishing, places dental sealants under direct supervision of the dentist.

• Instructs patients in oral hygiene care and assists in classroom presentations when requested.

• Responsible for all autoclaving.

• Follows Eastern Shore Rural Health System OSHA blood-borne pathogens plan, including proper disposal of sharps and contaminated waste, and follows universal precautions for all patients and procedures.

• Responsible for keeping all equipment and treatment room clean.

• Maintain supply and equipment inventory and requisition as needed. Fill out forms accurately and completely by deadline.

• Must maintain current CPR for all life cycles.