Dental Assistant I-II-III-IV (1.0 FTE)

La Clinica de La Raza•Oakland, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

La Clínica de La Raza is a community-based health center dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible, and culturally appropriate healthcare to the diverse communities of the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 40 years of advocacy, we have grown into a sophisticated provider of primary health care services with 35 sites across Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano counties. We are seeking Dental Assistants to join our care team, working alongside dentists in four-handed dentistry. This role requires superb technical skills to enhance clinic quality and efficiency, combined with a compassionate approach to patient experience. The ideal candidate will enjoy interacting with diverse individuals, thrive in a fast-paced clinic environment, remain calm under pressure, and demonstrate responsibility, reliability, problem-solving skills, and a helpful, friendly demeanor. We are looking for individuals committed to serving as a valuable member of our care team.

Requirements

HS/GED
X-Ray License
1-2 years of experience as a Dental Assistant
Certification for health clearances required of all healthcare professionals
Basic dental assisting practices, terminology, and equipment used.
Dental office procedures including but not limited to scheduling, registration, treatment estimates and payment collection.
Working with modern computer applications and electronic health records.
Techniques for cleaning and sterilization of dental equipment, exam rooms and patient treatment areas.
Ability to work in four-handed dentistry and other job functions that involve continuous movement.
Bilingual proficiency.
Use of clear and effective written and verbal communications skills using the English language with correct spelling and grammar.
Able to follow oral/written instructions.
Able to work professionally and collaboratively as a team member to support the quality/efficiency standards established for the clinic.
Ability to work across cultures and demonstrate support of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Flexibility in accepting change gracefully.
Ability to perform clerical duties in a methodical, independent, and thorough manner with speed and accuracy with minimal supervision.
Work independently; exercise good judgment; make accurate mathematical computations.
Able to participate with other staff in Saturday and evening rotation.

Nice To Haves

Completion of Dental Assistant Training Program preferred (for Non-Licensed DA)
DAI (for Non-Licensed DA)
DAII (RDA) (for Licensed DA)
DAIII (RDA-Extended Function) (for Licensed DA)
DAIV (RDA-Extended Function II) (for Licensed DA)

Responsibilities

Manage patient flow to maximize patient access and service by ensuring dental exam rooms are adequately stocked and are ready for patients.
Prepare patients for dental examination by taking and recording vital signs and medical/dental histories.
Help patients feel comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment.
Effectively communicate requests from patients to the dentist or dental care team members.
Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures such as taking dental x-rays.
Clean, sterilize, and maintain an adequate supply of functioning instruments and equipment.
Prepare instruments, materials, and medication for use in dental procedures.
Instruct patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
Provide patients with instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatment procedures.
Provide prescription information to pharmacies, as directed by the dentist.
Record treatment information in patient records using Electronic Dental Records system.
Demonstrate a commitment to excellent patient experience and quality outcomes.
Communicate and work effectively with providers and other members of the dental care team to best serve patients.
Contribute to a welcoming clinical space and healthy work environment through proactive relationship building, direct communication, and sound judgment.
Engage in huddles, staff meetings, team building activities, and assigned development opportunities.
Continue professional development through participation in educational opportunities.
Adhere to La Clínica's ethical and professional standards, including policies and procedures.
Perform general office duties, such as scheduling appointments for patients, answering telephones, recording medical updates from the provider, or completing insurance forms.
Register patients, collect and post payments, prepare treatment estimates for review with patient, run, balance, and close end-of-day reports.
Assist patients with insurance forms.
Greet and log in patients arriving at the office or clinic in the appropriate electronic system.
Inventory stock, order, and verify receipt of dental, lab, or office supplies or equipment.
Keep equipment operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns; maintaining supplies; performing preventive maintenance; calling for repairs.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.