Oral Surgery Dental Assistant

University of Utah Health•Salt Lake City, UT

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oral Surgery Dental Assistant is a skilled, compassionate, and detail-oriented professional who plays a critical role within a high-volume outpatient surgical center. This individual provides chairside surgical assistance, monitors patients undergoing various levels of sedation, and ensures strict adherence to infection control and safety protocols. Serving as a vital link between Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the clinical team, and patients, the Oral Surgery Dental Assistant helps deliver high-quality patient care throughout all phases of treatment, from pre-procedural preparation through post-procedure recovery. This position may be required to access and administer medications within their scope of practice and according to state law.

Requirements

Completion of accredited dental assistant course.
1-2 years of chair side dental assisting experience.
Successful completion of Radiology Safety and Health exam.
Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire.
Ability to provide care, as appropriate, to the population served.
Demonstrated, excellent human relations and effective communication skills.
Possession of fine motor skills and high manual dexterity to handle small surgical tools safely.
Mastery of sterile technique and strong knowledge of oral surgery instrumentation.
Ability to keep current and initiate implementation of infection control protocol that prevents cross contamination and protects staff.
Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of life span grown and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.

Nice To Haves

DAANCE (Dental Anesthesia Assistant National Certification Examination) certification
Dental assisting certification (RDA/CDA)
The incumbent is encouraged to participate in training and education as new advances in dentistry arise.

Responsibilities

Assist surgeons during outpatient procedures including complex extractions, dental implant placements, bone grafting, and biopsies.
Maintain a clear surgical field through efficient retraction, tissue manipulation, and high-volume suctioning.
Anticipate the surgeon’s needs and pass specialized surgical instruments seamlessly.
Assist in the administration of nitrous oxide and tracking patient vital signs.
Perform and process high-quality digital radiographs, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, Intra Oral Scans, Clinical Photos.
Review medical histories, verify allergies, document baseline vital signs, scribe for surgeons during physical exam.
Review medical histories, verify allergies, check consent forms, and document baseline vital signs.
Comfort and reassure anxious patients prior to surgical procedures.
Deliver comprehensive verbal and written aftercare instructions to patients and their escorts.
Monitor patients after in-office procedures and assist to their vehicle as needed.
Clean, disinfect, and set up surgical operatories following rigid DNV, OSHA, and CDC guidelines.
Prepare all instruments and other items for sterilization.
Perform routine maintenance and safety checks on surgical drills, suction lines, and autoclaves.
Accurately chart surgical notes, anesthesia logs, and treatment plans in the practice management software.
Track imaging timeline for surgical planning and ensure timely submission of imaging to our manufacturing partners.
Ensure that appropriate equipment and hardware are available for upcoming procedures.
Help to coordinate care with other departments and outside orthodontists/dentists.
Participate in regular meetings with Surgeons, Clinical Staff, and Clinical Leadership to ensure smooth service line operation.
Help to schedule patients for follow-up exams as appropriate.