Dental Assistant

Blacktail Health•Butte, MT

12h

About The Position

Under the general direction and supervision of the Dental Operations Coordinator, the Dental Assistant prepares patients for dental examinations and assists with dental procedures. The role provides patient care within the appropriate scope of practice to a diverse patient population and patients across the lifespan. The position is 32 or more hours per week, Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., and is benefits-eligible. It is classified as FLSA non-exempt. The successful candidate must pass a criminal background check. The Dental Assistant performs chairside and clinical support, maintains patient records, helps with patient processing, and supports dental check-in, check-out, and scheduling as needed. The role also includes maintaining supplies and equipment, sterilizing instruments, following infection-control procedures, and complying with applicable policies and legal requirements. This position has no supervisory responsibilities and reports to the Dental Operations Coordinator, or a designee in their absence.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must obtain current BLS certification if not held at the time of hire.
Must pass the RHS test within six months of hire if not held at the time of hire.
Must pass a criminal background check.
Meet the core competencies and functions of a Dental Assistant and practice within the scope of education, training, and personal capabilities.
Ability to become proficient with computer systems and applicable software, including Office 365, computerized imaging, and electronic dental records.
Effective oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate dental terminology accurately.
Ability to provide appropriate care to patients of all age groups, including patients with special needs, and to work effectively with racially, ethnically, and economically diverse populations.
Ability to organize and prioritize tasks, work under pressure, and demonstrate attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and as a team member, help others voluntarily, and use the appropriate chain of command to solve problems.
Professional and compassionate conduct, including the ability to calm patients who may be fearful or nervous.
Highest standards for attendance and punctuality.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from or completion of a dental assisting program.
One year of prior experience as a dental or medical assistant (highly preferred).
Prior healthcare or dental clinic experience (preferred).

Responsibilities

Assist practitioners in performing dental procedures, including independently assisting chairside and providing dental care to patients across the lifespan.
Prepare and process patients, including documenting the chief complaint, reviewing and updating medical history, and promptly reporting abnormal conditions to the clinician.
Maintain medical and dental records and explain technical medical information to patients.
Accurately understand and communicate dental terminology to coworkers, patients, and health records.
Use computer systems, dental software, computerized imaging, and electronic dental records.
Maintain accurate dental office inventory records and order supplies as necessary.
Set up and clean operatories and sterilize dental instruments according to OSHA-provided infection-control guidelines.
Maintain handpieces, operatories, evacuation units, radiographic equipment, and sterilization units according to manufacturer guidelines.
Treat patients courteously and effectively, maintaining a calm, caring, professional demeanor, including with patients who are fearful or nervous.
Organize and prioritize work, including during stressful situations and high workloads.
Back up dental check-in, check-out, and scheduling as necessary.
Follow dental office and company policies and procedures consistently.
Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA and OSHA compliance; follow applicable federal, state, and local legal guidelines and practice within the scope of education, training, and personal capabilities.
Report evidence of abuse or neglect to the provider or appropriate official.
Report to work on time and as scheduled; perform other duties as assigned.