Dental Assistant

Neighborhood Health • Alexandria, VA

131d

About The Position

The Dental Assistant performs duties such as preparing the patient for treatment, assisting the dentist in performing their treatment in restorative dentistry or oral surgery, preparing materials and equipment for treatment, and having them ready for the dentist's use. The role also includes taking x-rays and assisting the dentist in laboratory work. Additional responsibilities may include making appointments, answering the phone, and ordering supplies. The position requires a sincere dedication and loyalty to the philosophy and mission of Neighborhood Health.

Requirements

• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of Dental Assistant training required.
• Dental Assisting National Board certificate preferred.
• At least 2-3 years' experience preferred in functions such as taking dental radiography, maintaining dental equipment, performing oral prophylaxis procedures, and assisting dentist in patient treatment.
• Able to work in fast-paced setting and tolerate interruptions required.
• Comfortable working in a dental setting.
• Experience working with the population served by Neighborhood Health (e.g., Latino immigrants/refugees, clients of all ages and with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds).
• Cultural competency such that the individual possesses a sensitivity, understanding and expertise in caring for persons of diverse cultures.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Basic Life Support Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Takes and records medical and dental histories and vital signs of patient.
• Exposes dental diagnostic x-rays.
• Makes preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts.
• Pours, trims, and polishes study casts, fabricates custom impression trays from preliminary impressions, cleans and polishes removable appliances, and fabricates temporary restorations.
• Assists dentist in management of medical and dental emergencies.
• Instructs patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
• Provides postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist.
• Records treatment information in patient records.
• Ensures all patient records and related documentation are managed and maintained timely, accurately, and consistent with all HIPAA and related regulations and requirements.
• Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with OSHA procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Protects patients, self and employees by adhering to CDC and/or organizational infection-control policies and protocols.
• Ensures operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions and immediately notifying supervisor of any malfunctioning equipment.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge through continuing education; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Contributes to team effort by accomplishing shared goals.
• Demonstrates cultural competence and ability to work with staff and patients from diverse backgrounds.
• Prepares and maintains special internal and external reports as requested by Supervisor and/or Department Head.
• Assists with developing, coordinating and recommending changes for the improvement of workflow in the program or section area.
• May be assigned to various project lead roles to advance the development of the department and support ad hoc needs.
• Able to work under minimal supervision.
• Performs additional duties and takes on other responsibilities as dictated by events and circumstances.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees