Dental Assistant

Kinston Community Health•Kinston, NC

2d•$16 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Dental Assistant supports the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered oral healthcare by assisting dentists during clinical procedures, preparing patients and treatment areas, obtaining diagnostic information, maintaining infection control standards, and ensuring the efficient operation of the dental clinic. This position performs chairside assisting duties, radiographic procedures, instrument sterilization, patient education, and clinical documentation while promoting a safe, welcoming, and professional environment. The Dental Assistant works collaboratively with dentists, hygienists, and other healthcare professionals to provide exceptional care, maintain regulatory compliance, and advance Kinston Community Health Center's mission of improving the health of the communities it serves.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent
Diploma/Certificate of Dental Assisting
Maintain a current BLS certification.
Current X-ray certification.
Certification in infection control.
Certification in office emergencies.
Knowledge of chairside dental assisting techniques, four-handed dentistry, dental terminology, anatomy, infection prevention and control practices, sterilization procedures, OSHA, CDC, HIPAA, and standard dental office operations.
Knowledge of dental instruments, equipment, materials, and radiographic principles and safety standards, as applicable.
Ability to learn and effectively utilize electronic health record (EHR) systems, dental practice management software, and other healthcare technologies.
Proficiency in or ability to quickly learn the Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, and other standard office software.
Strong organizational, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to accurately document patient information while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with organizational policies.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced clinical environment.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion in all patient and workplace interactions.
Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and quality.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, providers, coworkers, and external partners.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities, workflows, and organizational needs.
Ability to remain calm and effective during stressful or emergency situations.
Commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care and exceptional customer service.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and continuously learn new procedures, technologies, and organizational processes.
Must successfully pass required background checks in accordance with organizational policy.
Must comply with all organizational credentialing and screening requirements.

Nice To Haves

Certified Dental Assistant preferred.
1-3 years of chairside experience preferred
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Ability to communicate effectively in both English and Spanish is strongly preferred to support patient care and enhance communication with a diverse patient population.

Responsibilities

Conduct patient interviews to obtain medical history and chief complaint.
Prepare patients for examination and perform routine X-rays, polishing, and sealants as needed.
Assist the dentist with examinations and minor office procedures.
Perform expanded chairside dental assisting functions in accordance with credentials and the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners regulations.
Manage time and prioritize tasks to maintain efficient clinical workflow.
Ensure compliance with OSHA and HIPAA guidelines in all clinical areas.
Complete dental charting, clinical notes, and accurately enter applicable dental codes in the Electronic Dental Record (EDR).
Provide oral hygiene education to patients individually and in groups, when appropriate.
Maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification and effectively utilize CPR skills when required.
Maintain exam rooms by stocking necessary supplies and equipment.
Dispose of biohazard waste and contaminated supplies in accordance with OSHA standards.
Properly sterilize instruments as needed.
Schedule patient appointments.
Respond promptly to electronic record inbox messages and tasks, including phone calls, medication requests, and appointment-related requests.
Track and schedule dental lab cases.
Interact respectfully and effectively with individuals of diverse racial, ethnic, and economic backgrounds.
Maintain a professional appearance, demeanor, and commitment to service.
Adhere to all federal HIPAA regulations and KCHC employee policies.
Perform other duties as assigned.