Dental Assistant

ASCENSION DEPAUL SERVICES•New Orleans, LA

51d•Onsite

About The Position

A full or part-time non-exempt position responsible for assisting the dentist(s) and dental hygienist(s) in the direct provision of primary care dental services to the patients of DePaul Community Health Centers. The dental assistant is also responsible for the operatory preparation, sterilization, preparation, and inventory control of dental instruments and supplies. The dental assistant will operate clinically under the direction of the dentist and dental hygienist and will be under the direct supervision of the Dental Assistant Supervisor and the Dental Director.

Requirements

Dental Assistant Certification, dental x-ray certification and knowledge of dental procedures.
High school diploma or GED.
Possess current CPR Certification.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Positive interpersonal relationship skills required

Nice To Haves

2 years of experience in a dental office or clinic setting.
Prior experience with electronic dental records.

Responsibilities

Gather patient information and health background and documenting in patient records.
Pulls up patient dental and relevant medical history for the dentist to refer to during examination.
Prepares patients for dentists.
Provides patient care and support.
Prepares the treatment room for patient treatment as per department protocols and the direction of the dentist or the dental hygienist.
Takes X-rays of patient’s teeth in accordance with state regulation as well as department directive and protocol.
Sterilize dental instruments and equipment and maintain all dental equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and department procedures and protocol.
Assists dentist by using suction hoses and other equipment, maintaining a clear field during exam and procedures
Assists dentist by handing them instruments and equipment, taking notes when needed
Educates patients on good oral hygiene habits
Prepares materials for crowns or dental impressions
Updates patient records and treatment plans as directed by dentist
Directs patients and maintains schedule
Stocks treatment areas and monitoring inventory
Calls patients for aftercare and answers questions on procedures and follow-up treatment appointments
Assists patients in resolving minor difficulties, answering the questions and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist or dental hygienist.
Performs independent procedures as delegated and directed by the dentist in accordance with state regulation and law and department directive and protocol.
Monitors patient schedule daily to ensure adequate and efficient patient flow.
Follows Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, ADA and CDC Infection Control Guidelines and department procedures and protocols.
Ensures proper disposal of all contaminated or potentially contaminated material in accordance with department directives, center policy and state and federal regulations.
Assists with various clinical and administrative functions as appropriate.
Attends mandatory training, staff and safety meetings and participates appropriately.
Uses time wisely and maintains a courteous and professional demeanor at all times.
Performs other duties as assigned or directed.