Traveling Dental Assistant Oral Surgery

PDS Health•Santa Fe, NM

4d•$24 - $33

About The Position

The Dental Assistant supports clinicians by delivering the Perfect Patient Experience and helping create Patients for Life. The role includes patient care, office, and laboratory duties, such as preparing patients for oral examinations and assisting dental professionals with treatment of the teeth, mouth, and gums. Dental assistants work collaboratively with specialty assistants, patients, and front-office staff, communicating constructively, keeping commitments, sharing work progress, and addressing problems with practical solutions. For specialty assignments such as Oral Surgery, the assistant primarily supports clinicians in that specialty and may need additional training. Specialty Dental Assistants travel to multiple offices as required; travel may be planned or unplanned and may change without notice. The position requires a reliable means of transportation for timely travel between assigned offices.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or equivalent, and training courses required by the state for certification, licensure, or registration.
Certificates, licenses, or registrations as mandated by the applicable state.
For Specialty Dental Assistants, a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance, subject to background and motor vehicle record checks at hire, or reliable alternate transportation that permits timely travel between multiple offices.
Ability to travel to multiple assigned offices per day, sometimes several times per day; travel may be planned or unplanned and subject to change without notice.
Ability to respond to common inquiries from patients, staff, vendors, or other business community members.
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 diagrammatic instructions.
Ability to use basic computer software.
Results-oriented, energetic self-starter who sets realistic goals, meets commitments, persists, and prioritizes daily work.
Flexible, adaptive, empathetic, passionate, and ethical customer-service approach.
Active listening and observation skills, with the ability to influence and support constructive change.
Self-motivated and reliable, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to multitask effectively without compromising work quality.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Ability to handle and maintain strict 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 attending to their individual needs and concerns.
Escort patients to and from the front desk and introduce them to other team members as appropriate.
Communicate with front- and back-office teams to help 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 the dentist in providing efficient, quality care.
Complete radiographs and intra-oral pictures at the clinician’s direction.
Prepare procedure tray setups and maintain and replenish supplies in each operatory.
Keep patients’ mouths dry and clear using suction or other devices.
Instruct patients on postoperative and general oral health care as directed by the clinician.
Record 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.
Coordinate with the Lead Dental Assistant to ensure adequate clinical supplies are available.
Learn to use 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.”
Make decisions consistent with the PDS Brand framework and demonstrate stewardship of the PDS Brand.
Implement the Perfect Patient Experience process to help gain Patients for Life.
Maintain 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 regulations.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.