Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant

Provides high-quality and culturally appropriate dental care to patients. This position plays a vital role in improving oral health outcomes. Works within a multi-disciplinary healthcare team and supports the mission of promoting wellness in the Laguna community. Supports the dental team by performing a variety of clerical, clinical maintenance and clinical functions.

Essential Functions

Perform chair side assisting duties to include all routine dental procedures in general dentistry. Collaborate with patient registration/appointment staff to schedule patient visits and reminders. Chart and record all treatment and treatment plans rendered to patients and refer patients utilizing electronic dental record system(s). Complete dental laboratory work in compliance with the dentist's instructions. Clean, package, sterilize and organize all dental instruments for proper storage and use or non-use thereof. Prepare patient and operatory for proper dental procedure including setting up the appropriate instruments for planned procedures. Operate dental x-ray equipment and intraoral cameras to take intra and extraoral radiographs and photographs, process and mount radiograph films using imaging software. Provide routine polishing, topical fluoride treatment and place pit and fissure sealants as prescribed by the dentist. Perform routine dental laboratory procedures including pouring and trimming models, constructing custom trays, fabricating base plates and bite rims. Take and record blood pressure. Review medical history with patient and alert provider to any changes. Creates medical history documentation in Electronic Dental Record. Conduct inventory, order and requisition supplies and equipment ensuring clinic supplies are maintained. Compile and produce a variety of recurring reports related to dental activities such as infection control logs. Educate and instruct patients in prevention of oral disease and in post-treatment procedures. Maintain the dental clinic in a clean and operative condition. Provide routine and preventative maintenance on all dental equipment. Maintain on-line and paper Safety Data Sheets. Cross train and assist with clerical office duties.

Minimum Qualifications

1. One (1) year of professional clinical experience as a Dental Assistant. Experience working in Native American or underserved community preferred. 2. High School Diploma or GED. Completion of Dental Assistant program from U.S. accredited post-secondary institution. 3. New Mexico Dental Assistant Certification or other state certification. 4. Current BLS certification. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of patients in a diverse community. 2. Techniques for dealing with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, in person and telephonically. 3. Ability to interact with staff in a team environment. 4. Comprehensive knowledge of dental assistant principles and techniques as traditionally practiced. 5. Knowledge of ethical standards for the delivery of dental care. 6. Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards. 7. Knowledge of dental anatomy and terminology and the ability to properly take diagnostic radiographs. 8. Knowledge and skill in adjusting and operating dental radiographic equipment. 9. Ability to explain post-operative instructions and preventive techniques to patient. 10. Ability to work both independently and in a team environment. 11. Knowledge and skill in current sterilization techniques. 12. Knowledge and skill in detecting syncope, shock or other reactions to dental treatment in patients. 13. Effective verbal and written communication skills. 14. Proficiency in use of computer/information technology including computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment. Must include skills in Dentrix, MiPACS, RPMS or equivalent employee health record system . 15. Evidence of the practice of a high level of confidentiality. 16. Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential patient information and documentation. 17. Judgment and decision-making ability. 18. Solid analytical and problem-solving skills. 19. High attention to detail and accuracy. This position may be subject to a criminal history background check, a suitability background check and/or a credit report check. In addition, some positions are subject to a more extensive background check to ensure compliance with Public Law 101-630 Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act. Candidates must be able to successfully pass all required background checks and drug/alcohol testing to qualify for this position.