A Dental Assistant assists dentists in caring for patient's teeth. Helps patients get ready for treatment; prepares equipment and supplies. May perform some dental procedures under the direction of a dentist, such as fluoride application, if allowed under state regulations. Works in dental offices.
General Statement of Duties The primary purpose of the Caldwell County Health Department is to deliver public health services in Caldwell County. The Dental Assistant performs a variety of clerical and dental assisting tasks such as recording and maintaining patient data and charts, chairside dental assisting, making appointments, ordering and maintaining supplies, sterilization of instruments and operatories, and providing information to individuals and families who are recipients of local health services. Work is performed under the guidance and supervision of professional health personnel and evaluated constantly for satisfactory completion. Public Health is a first responder agency for natural disasters (e.g. hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, winter storms), naturally occurring infectious disease outbreaks (e.g. influenza, SARS), technological hazards (hazardous materials releases, critical infrastructure disruptions), and terrorist incidents. Availability during emergencies and exercises is required. Examples of Duties Performed This position is responsible for recording and maintaining patients' medical/dental records using dental software. The assistant provides information for health services recipients and contacts patients by phone or letter regarding patient care or upcoming/overdue appointments. The assistant will answer phone calls to the dental clinic which involves scheduling new and existing patient appointments, answering questions, and confirming future appointments. This position assists in ordering, receiving, and storing dental supplies. The assistant will set up operatories, ensure instruments are ready for use, seat patients, and provide chair side assistance to the dentist during dental procedures. The assistant will utilize proper sterilization and infection control procedures to clean operatories and dental instruments and log activities in cleaning logs according to departmental policies. The assistant takes panoramic, periapical, and bitewing radiographs as prescribed by the dentist. Dental assistants at the dental clinic will complete the following procedures during recall appointments: charting, coronal polishing, oral hygiene instructions, and fluoride varnish. The assistant reviews post-op instructions with patients. The assistant schedules future appointments and ensures recall postcards are completed. Recruitment Standards Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of the principles and practices of dental patient care Knowledge of sterilization and infection control procedures Broad knowledge of dental procedures and terminology Must be competent in chairside assisting with restorative and surgical procedures Must be qualified to take digital radiographs and to complete coronal polishing on patients Ability to maintain dental records using computers and dental software Must be competent at working with children Must demonstrate the use of sound judgment and empathy Ability to follow oral and written instructions SPICE training is preferred but not required Ability to speak Spanish and translate with patients is preferred but not required Minimum Training and Experience Graduation from high school and successful completion of a one year ADA accredited dental assisting program. Applicant must have current CPR certification. At least one year experience working as a Dental Assistant II is preferred. Special Condition for
Continued Employment:
meet qualifications set forth by the North Carolina Board of Dental Examiners for classification as a Dental Assistant II.
