Dental Assistant

Heartland Alliance Health•Chicago, IL

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Heartland Alliance Health’s (HAH) mission is to transform healthcare for the most vulnerable – particularly people experiencing homelessness, mental illness or addictions, or struggling with multiple chronic illnesses – improving health for all and the well-being of our community. The Dental Assistant, under supervision, assists the dentist in the routine handling of patients, instruments, supplies and materials. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of an approved course in dental assisting or employed full time for at least six months as a dental assistant in a dental clinic.
Ability to work with groups and individuals in a tactful and resourceful manner.
Fluency in a second language may be required.
Demonstrated proficiency in operating a computer efficiently, including Microsoft Word and internet skills.

Responsibilities

Prepares operatories and equipment for daily use in the morning as well as securing the same at the end of day.
Performs preliminary inspection of mouth and documents chart findings. May take blood pressure readings
Assists patients in completing health questionnaire and other clinic paperwork
Prepares tray of instruments and supplies required for the patient and serves as the dentist’s chair side assistant by handling the various instruments and supplies as instructed.
Sterilizes and polishes dental instruments, oils and cleans equipment per maintenance schedule
Performs routine laboratory work such as mixing fillings materials, pouring models etc., takes dental radiographs, develops and mounts x-ray film
Understands and observes all infection control procedures and performs weekly monitoring of sterilization equipment
Assists in removing or inserting temporary medical fillings and applies topical drugs as prescribed by the Dentist
Assists in placing rubber dam
Performs the charting of the mouth according to the dentists instructions. Instructs patients in proper oral hygiene techniques, proper nutrition for dental health and common oral problems.
Inventories and requisitions dental supplies.
Adheres to professional standards as outlined by governmental bodies, The American Dental Association (ADA) (and/or other appropriate professional associations), private funding sources, Agency plans/policies and Unit guidelines. Participates in periodic evaluative reviews and/or in house and external staff training to ensure that he/she understands and continues to adhere to such standards. Initiates requests for assistance or guidance from Supervisor to address new issues or complex concepts affecting adherence to professional standards.
Performs necessary clerical duties including, but not limited to registration of patients, making appointments when necessary and operating a computer, including Microsoft Word and internet search functions.
Other duties may be assigned.