Dental Assistant

UPMC•Harrisburg, PA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

UPMC is hiring a full-time Dental Assistant to support the team/office in Harrisburg. The REACCH (Resources, Education and Comprehensive Care for HIV) Program provides comprehensive medical care and social services to people living with HIV throughout south central Pennsylvania. The REACCH program provides an array of services including HIV primary and specialty care, case management and social work services, dental care, on-site therapy/counseling, rapid HIV testing, community outreach and education, and HIV prevention services. In this role, you'll support providers who typically see approximately 10 patients per day. Responsibilities include providing chairside assistance during dental procedures, preparing and maintaining treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, performing dental radiographs, and ensuring supplies are stocked and organized. You'll also participate in team meetings and training opportunities while playing an essential role in creating a positive experience for patients and families. Under general supervision, the Dental Assistant supports the delivery of high-quality clinical dental care in both outpatient and surgical settings. This individual works closely with dentists, patients, families, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure efficient clinic operations while providing compassionate, professional, and patient-focused care.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Dental Radiology Certificate required or obtained within 6 months of employment.
Dental Radiology Certificate OR Dental Auxiliary Personnel License.
Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Dental Radiology Certificate
Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting
Act 33
Act 34
Act 73 FBI Clearance

Nice To Haves

Graduates of dental assisting programs or 2+ years of dental assisting experience highly preferred

Responsibilities

Greet, escort, and prepare patients for appointments, including obtaining weights when appropriate and preparing electronic documentation such as discharge instructions and school/work excuses.
Provide chairside assistance during dental and orthodontic procedures using four-handed dental assisting techniques.
Assist in clinic, satellite, and hospital operating room settings, including treatment room setup, patient care support, and post-procedure cleanup.
Obtain high-quality diagnostic dental radiographs for dentist review.
Mix and prepare dental materials, cements, and impression products; apply topical anesthetics and assist with rubber dam placement.
Take, pour, trim, and finish study model impressions; coordinate the shipment and receipt of appliances and models with dental laboratories.
Clean, sterilize, and maintain instruments, equipment, and treatment areas in accordance with established infection control and safety standards.
Maintain inventory and ensure clinical workspaces are fully stocked and organized.
Communicate effectively and professionally with patients, families, providers, and team members, providing accurate and timely information.
Participate in team meetings, training activities, and departmental initiatives.
Respond appropriately to spills, patient accidents, and other housekeeping or safety needs within the clinical environment.
Assist with the maintenance and monitoring of dental equipment and supplies under the direction of the Clinic Coordinator.