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.
The purpose of this position is to assist the dental professionals with the daily operation of the Tribal dental clinic in accordance with the Tribe's holistic health and wellness objectives for patients and families. Ensures that the provision of health care services takes place in a professional environment and is accomplished efficiently.
DUTIES:
Observe/participate in duties as training is provided. Perform chair side-assisting duties, which encompass all routine dental procedures in general dentistry. Properly record/scan all treatment rendered, planned, findings, and correspondence with patients in the current electronic dental record (Dentrix & Romexis) and accurately retrieves and files paper dental charts. Complete dental laboratory work orders in compliance with dentist's & outside laboratories instructions to include sending them out and checking them in. Perform routine dental laboratory procedures, including pouring and trimming models, constructing custom trays, fabricating-base plates and bite rims. Prepare patient and operatory for proper dental procedures including setting up with proper instruments. Expose & manipulate digital intra-oral, panoramic radiographs, cone beam computed tomography, utilizing the software and equipment correctly. Provide functions allowed under EFDA certification (when certified): Prepare and mix various dental materials, fabricate and cement temporary crowns, place sealants, place and remove rubber dams, provide routine prophylaxis and topical fluoride treatment as assigned by dentist, apply temporary soft relines to full dentures, and any other items under this certificate approved by the Oregon Board of Dentistry now and in the future. Explain procedure risks, obtain proper consent, and recite post treatment instructions to patients. Motivate and instruct patients in proper preventive techniques. Assists clinic professionals with various wellness and community activities such as screenings, sealant clinics, etc. Clean, sharpen, package, and sterilize all dental instruments according to current infection control guidelines and properly store them. Maintain a clean, stocked and orderly dental area. Order and maintain dental supplies and equipment. Coordinate patient scheduling with support staff. Coordinate with Patient Accounts to ensure dental lab fee agreements are current. Performs other duties as assigned by dentist and/or Oregon Board of Dentistry.
Requirements:
REQUIREMENTS
High school diploma or GED and interest in dental career and must be an enrolled Siletz Tribal Member. Incumbent must obtain Oregon Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certification and the Oregon state certificate of radiological proficiency within one-month from completing 14-week dental program. Incumbent will successfully complete the Practical Dental Assisting of Oregon 14-week program. The incumbent agrees to a 24-month employment commitment. Position transitions to Dental Assistant II upon achievement of EFDA certification; certificate of radiological proficiency; and completion of 12-month experience. The position transitions to Dental Assistant III with completion of 18-months dental assistant experience.
Knowledge of:
Dental anatomy and the ability to properly expose and manipulate digital intra-oral and panoramic radiographs utilizing the software and equipment correctly. All instruments normally used in routine dental procedures for restorative, prosthodontic, oral surgery, endodontic, preventive and periodontal treatment.
Ability to:
Successfully complete the required course and pass required certifications. Develop and maintain positive working relations with patients, their families, health staff, tribal staff, as well as professional groups. Work 40 hours per week when needed (staffing needs).
Other:
Current healthcare provider CPR or ability to obtain within 30-days of hire. Must maintain all certifications specific to the job category during the entire course of hire.
