Dental Assistant

MID-STATE HEALTH CENTER•Littleton, NH

15d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, dental assistants provide technical assistance to dental professionals in clinical dental care; and perform related duties as assigned. A dental assistant functions both as dental clinical and office assistant. Dental assistant duties mostly consist of preparing the patient for the dental examination, sterilizing instruments, assisting the dentist during dental procedures, and doing front-office work. Front-office job duties might include helping patients schedule appointments and working with equipment suppliers to handle deliveries.

Requirements

High School Graduate or GED
None required (experience)
None required (licenses/certifications)
Working with people.
Explaining things.
Staying focused.
Attention to detail is important.
Staying organized.

Responsibilities

Answer patient questions before an appointment.
Greet patient in reception area and escort patient to dental clinic at appointment.
Prepare patients for dental procedures by making them comfortable and providing any instructions.
Review medical and dental history, determine if there have been any changes in the patients’ health since last visit and alert dentist to any significant findings.
Obtain vital signs from patient if requested by the dentist.
Sterilize dental instruments and equipment, and place for easy access.
Prepare the dental exam room for use by the dentist by making sure it is stocked and organized.
Assist the dentist during procedures, including passing instruments, getting supplies, using the suction tube to keep the patient’s mouth dry and being familiar with the procedures.
Assist with dental lab work.
Instruct patients on dental hygiene and proper care of dental fixtures.
Schedule follow-up appointments.
Make follow-up phone calls.
Perform support tasks needed in the clinic, such as maintenance of equipment, laundry, cleaning as requested by the dental director.
Keep patient records.
Demonstrate strong computer skills and willingness to be trained in clinical software.
Coordinate referrals generated by the dental department, sending and obtaining radiographs and health records as needed.
Support the front desk staff in completing and explaining treatment plans.
Maintain dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
Conserve dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.
Maintain dental equipment per manufacturer guidelines.
Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks.
The job holder must demonstrate current competencies applicable to the job position.