Dental Assistant

Yale New Haven Health•New Haven, CT

23d

About The Position

Orthodontic dental assistants assist residents and orthodontists in the care and treatment of pediatric orthodontic patients. They maintain clean, organized examination rooms and clinical labs, greet patients, and prepare them for examinations. Assistants identify problems or changes in patients’ mouths and report them to the orthodontist. They take appropriate X-rays, make molds, and trim models as required. They also prepare for and assist orthodontists during procedures by ensuring necessary instruments and supplies are ready, and collaborate with the orthodontic biller as needed.

Requirements

Graduation from high school or GED.
Must obtain the DANB Infection Control Exam (ICE) within one year.
Must obtain Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) certification within six months of hire; it may be acquired through DANB or the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine.
Ability to work with pediatric and special needs patients.
Ability to work with model-trimming tools.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a Dental Assistant Program.
Orthodontic certification may be required depending on area of assignment.

Responsibilities

Assist dental residents and dentists with patient treatment to support timely patient flow and efficient care.
Receive and seat incoming patients in a pleasant, courteous, and professional manner.
Maintain instruments and equipment to ensure proper function and use, including oiling handpieces daily.
Maintain treatment rooms and the sterilization area in a clean and safe condition.
Stock treatment rooms daily with supplies and instruments.
Greet and prepare patients for orthodontic examinations.
Identify problems or changes in patients’ mouths and report them to the orthodontist.
Take appropriate X-rays, make molds, and trim models as required.
Prepare for and assist orthodontists during procedures, ensuring instruments and supplies are in place.
Maintain the clinical lab in a clean, organized state.
Work collaboratively with the orthodontic biller as needed.