Dental Assistant

Lake Superior Community Health Center•Duluth, MN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The unlicensed dental assistant assists the dentist during examination and treatment of patients. The dental assistant is responsible for patient preparation, sterilization and disinfection of instruments, instrument tray set up, and preparation of dental materials.

Requirements

Possession of a high school diploma or GED certificate
Effective oral and written communication skills
Ability to sterilize and care for instruments and equipment
Computer and Microsoft Office software knowledge
High level of customer service skills
Ability to organize and prioritize tasks under stressful conditions
Ability to complete basic lab work
CPR Certification (obtain within 6 months)

Nice To Haves

Experience in health care business operations preferred
Knowledge of infection control procedures and protocols preferred
Knowledge of dental assisting techniques and procedures preferred

Responsibilities

Clean and sterilize instruments, equipment, and operatories
Sterilizes reusable dental instruments and equipment
Oils and cleans equipment
Chair/operatory sterilization and set up
Insures proper disposal of all contaminated or potentially contaminated materials
Maintains compliance with department directives and protocols relative to infection control, exposure control and safety
Maintains adequate operatory supplies and complies list of items needed for inventory control and ordering purposes
Assists dentists by serving as chair-side assistant
Prepares operatory for patient treatment
Passes instruments
Performs other routine tasks in care of the patient as directed by the dentist
Provides diagnostic aids to the dentist
Assists dentist in management of medical and dental emergencies
Performs clinical supportive functions
Prepare patient ensuring patient feels comfortable before, during and after dental treatment
Instruct patient on appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health (e.g. tooth brushing, flossing)
Dismisses patient by explaining follow-up needed as directed by dentist
Maintains dental clinical records
Chart mouth and teeth
Records and maintains files
Support front desk staff in down time
Mixes amalgam and synthetic fillings material according to instructions
Exposes digital x-rays (WI Only)
Pours, trims and polishes casts (WI Only)
Maintain dental equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s directions and department policy
VisDental Compliant
Miscellaneous Duties
Responsible for personal compliance with LSCHC
Maintains patient confidentiality
Other duties as assigned
Travel between sites may be required