Dental Assistant

Affinity Health Center•Rock Hill, SC

24d

About The Position

The Dental Assistant supports dental care delivery under the supervision of Affinity Health Center dentists. The role prepares treatment rooms, patients, instruments, and materials; assists with dental procedures; and helps patients feel comfortable and prepared for treatment. The Dental Assistant may perform basic supportive dental procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist and must work within applicable regulations and the scope of training. The position is part of the Dental Team and participates in relevant continuous quality improvement initiatives and the organization’s performance management system. The Dental Assistant is responsible for maintaining current practice knowledge.

Requirements

Licensed to take X-rays in South Carolina.
High school graduate or GED.
Completion of a Dental Assisting 1 (DA 1) program or current Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential.
Experience as a General Dental Assistant or Dental Assistant I.
Dependable transportation.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Certified Dental Assistant II or Expanded Dental Assistant.
Experience with digital dental workflows, including 3D design and 3D printing.

Responsibilities

Assist dentists and dental hygienists during examinations, treatment, cleanings, and dental procedures.
Prepare treatment rooms, patients, dental instruments, equipment, and supplies for patient care.
Capture and process digital dental radiographs.
Prepare patients for treatment and explain procedures and post-treatment care.
Obtain and document patient medical and dental histories, vital signs, and other clinical information as directed.
Assist with restorative procedures, extractions, cleanings, and other dental services within training and applicable regulations.
Follow infection prevention and control procedures, including sterilizing and disinfecting instruments and treatment areas.
Set up, clean, and maintain dental operatories and equipment between patients.
Prepare and maintain materials and instruments needed for procedures.
Monitor dental supply inventory and notify the appropriate team member when supplies need reordering.
Clean, sterilize, store, and maintain dental instruments and equipment.
Assist with patient flow, scheduling, and coordination of dental services as needed.
Document services, procedures, and other patient information accurately and promptly in the electronic health record.
Provide basic oral health education and reinforce instructions from dentists or dental hygienists.
Communicate professionally and compassionately with patients, families, and dental and healthcare team members.
Protect patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, OSHA, infection control, other applicable regulations, and organizational policies.
Help maintain a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming dental environment.
Capture intraoral digital scans to support fabrication of dental appliances, prostheses, and 3D-printed restorations.
Participate in team meetings, training, quality improvement activities, and other departmental initiatives.
Collaborate with medical, behavioral health, and other AHC team members to support integrated, patient-centered care.
Perform other duties assigned to support the Dental Department and Affinity Health Center’s mission.
Maintain current practice knowledge and participate in applicable organizational quality improvement and performance management initiatives.