Dental Assistant II

Colorado Coalition for the Homeless•Denver, CO

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Dental Assistant II plays a crucial role in supporting dentists and hygienists in the care and treatment of clients within an integrated health care setting. This entry-level position involves assisting during various dental procedures, managing patient intake and records, and ensuring compliance with infection control protocols. Key responsibilities include preparing patients for treatment, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and providing post-treatment care instructions. The Dental Assistant I also engages with patients to ensure their comfort and assists in managing medical emergencies as needed.

Requirements

AHA or ARC Basic Life Support Certification required within 30 days of employment
Dental Radiology Certificate required within 30 days of employment
High School Diploma or Equivalent Required
Ability to make sound decisions using available information while maintaining confidentiality (HIPAA protocols)
Exhibit strong listening skills and show concern for patients, maintaining a friendly and polite demeanor under pressure
Communicate effectively with diverse audiences in a calm and professional manner
Organize and prioritize multiple responsibilities simultaneously
Knowledge of general dental procedures and instruments
Understanding of OSHA regulations concerning infection control and dental clinic operations

Nice To Haves

Dental Assistant Program Certificate Preferred
Awareness of homeless issues and sensitivity to underserved populations (preferred)
Bilingual preferred

Responsibilities

Assist the dentist and hygienist during a variety of treatment procedures within the scope of practice as defined by Colorado law
Provide quality dental intake and records into the electronic health record (EHR), including blood pressure, smoking status, drug allergies, blood glucose, A1C, and risk assessments
Maintain compliance with infection control protocols to include the cleaning, disinfecting, sterilization and re-circulation of instruments
Ensure a clean and orderly work environment to include stocking, cleaning, disinfecting treatment rooms and maintaining equipment and work areas
Complete protocols for opening and closing the clinic
Perform primary chair-side assisting duties, including: Assist in the prevention, examination, and treatment of oral disease.
Prepare charts and mount x-rays when the patient is seated
Set up instrument trays and prepare materials used in dental procedures
Keep the patient’s mouth free of debris and hand appropriate instruments to the dentist during procedures
Practice rubber dam techniques and sterilize equipment while maintaining infection control protocols
Prepare dental materials, cements, amalgams, composites, impression materials; prepare casting models and dies
Take, develop, mount, and label dental radiographs (x-rays)
Prepare outgoing lab cases and receive incoming lab cases
Help patients feel comfortable before, during, and after procedures, including using low voice tones and providing reassurance
Provide patients with post-treatment oral care instructions as prescribed by the dentist
Dispose of contaminated biological and chemical waste according to OSHA procedures and protocols
Assist the dentist in managing medical and dental emergencies, performing CPR if necessary
Ensure timely & accurate recording of all clinical/non-clinical services, communications, and tasks in the EHR and other systems as required while maintaining complete up-to-date charts and any future upgrades as directed
Performs other job duties as assigned