Specialty Dental Assistant Orthodontics

PDS Health•El Cajon, CA

13h

About The Position

The Specialty Dental Assistant supports clinicians in orthodontics by helping deliver the Perfect Patient Experience and promote lasting patient relationships. The role includes patient care, office, and laboratory duties, preparing patients for examinations and treatment, and assisting dental professionals. Specialty Dental Assistants may need additional training and are expected to work effectively and constructively with clinical and front-office colleagues. The position requires timely travel between multiple assigned offices, potentially several times per day, using a driver’s license and insured vehicle or reliable alternative transportation. Travel may be planned or unplanned and may change without notice.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent, plus training courses required by the state for certification, licensure, or registration.
Certificates, licenses, or registrations required by the applicable state.
For Specialty Dental Assistants, a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance; the license is subject to background and motor vehicle record checks at hire.
Ability to travel promptly to multiple offices per day, sometimes several times per day; reliable transportation is required. Reliable alternative transportation may be used instead of a driver’s license and automobile insurance.
Ability to respond to common inquiries from patients, staff, vendors, and other members of the business community.
Ability to draw valid conclusions, use sound judgment, and make decisions under pressure.
Ability to interact effectively with clinicians and owner doctors.
Ability to interpret and apply policies and procedures.
Ability to read and interpret business, professional, technical, safety, maintenance, and regulatory documents.
Effective verbal and written communication with patients and co-workers.
Ability to interpret written, verbal, or diagram-form instructions.
Ability to use basic computer software.
Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to multitask without compromising work quality.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Ability to handle and maintain the confidentiality of patient records.
Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

One-year certificate from an accredited college or technical school, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

Perform duties in accordance with the applicable state’s Dental Auxiliaries Table of Permitted Duties.
Support the Perfect Patient Experience by keeping patients focused on optimal treatment while addressing their individual needs and concerns.
Escort patients to and from the front desk and introduce them to other team members as appropriate.
Coordinate with front- and back-office teams to help ensure the orthodontists’ schedules run smoothly and efficiently.
Maintain a clean, sterile, and cheerful environment.
Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment, and clean operatories according to applicable state infection-control guidelines.
Prepare patients for treatment and assist clinicians in providing efficient, quality dental care.
Complete radiographs and intra-oral pictures as directed by the clinician.
Prepare procedure trays and maintain adequate operatory supply levels, replenishing as needed.
Keep patients’ mouths dry and clear using suction or other devices.
Provide postoperative and general oral-health-care instructions as directed by the clinician.
Enter patient charting and clinician notes in the digital patient chart as directed.
Present treatment records, consents, and health histories to the clinician before treatment.
Maintain equipment according to manufacturer guidelines.
Work with the Lead Dental Assistant to ensure adequate clinical supplies are available.
Learn to operate technology and explain or demonstrate its operation to others.
Participate in daily morning huddles, monthly team meetings, and other required meetings.
Model company culture, values, standards, and operational practices based on the “We Believes.”
Represent the PDS Brand and make decisions consistent with its framework.
Implement the Perfect Patient Experience process to support patient retention.
Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor in accordance with company policies and treat others professionally and respectfully.
Comply with company policies and applicable state, federal, and other regulatory requirements.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.