Dental Assistant - Pediatric Dentistry

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

About The Position

The College of Dentistry’s Pediatric Department is seeking a motivated and compassionate Dental Assistant to support dentists, dental students, and hygienists in providing care to pediatric and special needs patients. The role rotates through a variety of clinical settings, offering broad clinical exposure and meaningful patient-care experience. The full job description is available by emailing [email protected]. The Dental Assistant supports pediatric dentistry procedures, including examinations, restorative and surgical treatment, and oral sedation with nitrous oxide. The position also includes patient and student education, radiography, instrument sterilization, equipment maintenance, and preparation of clinical supplies and materials. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional overtime possible. An advanced starting salary may be possible based on exceptional qualifications.

Requirements

Successful completion of a CODA-accredited dental assisting program, or one year of full-time-equivalent chairside assistant experience using the four-handed method of dentistry.
Current certificate of registration to practice as a dental assistant issued by the Iowa Board of Dental Examiners (QDA).
Current Iowa certificate of proficiency in dental radiography (QDA).
Expanded Functions (EF-1 and/or EF-2) may be required based on the specific needs assigned by the provider.
Applicants must upload a resume and mark it as “Relevant File” to be considered for an interview.
Successful candidates must self-disclose conviction history and undergo a criminal background check and credential and education verification.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children.
Fluency in Spanish.
Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills.
Knowledge of dental assisting skills.
Certified Dental Assistant.

Responsibilities

Assist dentists and dental students with pediatric dentistry procedures, from examinations to restorative and surgical treatment.
Assist doctors and students in providing oral health care to children with developmental disabilities.
Assist with oral sedations of pediatric patients, including the use of nitrous oxide analgesia.
Explain and demonstrate DAU concepts and principles to dental students.
Explain and demonstrate procedures and appropriate oral hygiene products to patients and parents.
Perform pumice (rubber cup) prophylaxis on coronal surfaces.
Expose and process radiographs as requested.
Restock supplies.
Assist registered dental hygienists as needed.
Prepare instruments for sterilization and sterilize selected instruments in accordance with OSHA guidelines.
Perform routine daily maintenance of dental equipment.
Explain clinical operating policies and procedures to students, faculty, and newly employed dental assistants.
Set up trays and equipment for pediatric dentistry procedures.
Mix materials, pour impressions, and trim models as requested.
Perform other duties as assigned.