Dental Assistant

Job Title

Dental Assistant

Duties

Customer Service Shows courtesy, respect, and a positive attitude for patients, co-workers and the public. Provides assistance to customers with questions or concerns, provides service recovery.

Chairside Assisting Sets up operatory and/or surgery suite for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover Passes instruments safely, accurately, and efficiently. Keeps operative field clear of debris and retracts oral tissues effectively and comfortably for patients Prepares dental medicaments and impression materials per manufacturer's instructions. Accomplishes all intra-operative procedures within standard infection control protocols Assists in routine general dental procedures Assists in specialized dental procedures, such as oral surgery, endodontics, and periodontics

Dental Imaging Images are characterized by diagnostic quality, accurately oriented and exposed Dental imaging safety techniques are utilized, and retakes are minimized Imaging requests are accomplished within the desired time frame

Infection Control and Equipment Sterilization Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory Instruments are properly prepared for sterilization by SPS standards Instruments are prepared in a manner that does not delay clinical care Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in exposing images.

Clerical Functions Assists patients in scheduling appointments Assists in filling gaps in the doctor's schedule due to late cancellations and failed appointments Assists dentist in charting findings and treatment plans in patient records

Information Management Maintains patient confidentiality per HIPAA with written and verbal information. Follows computer security regulations.

Patient Safety Modifies care as necessitated by patient's age and abilities (patient transfer and position) Provides accurate and understandable instructions to patients Participates in patient identification and time out per Joint Commission requirements Monitors patient condition during treatment, being alert for signs of physical distress Monitors patient (BP, pulse EKG, pulse oximeter), and condition during moderate sedation and during recovery period following procedure

Employee Education Complies with Employee Education requirements Completes mandatory annual safety training sessions

Dental Laboratory Functions Pours impressions and prepares study model Selects and manipulates a variety of gypsums and waxes Makes final denture impression trays and prepares bite rims Fabricates custom trays Performs other dental laboratory functions as time and skill levels allow

Direct Patient Care Assists with specialty procedures including oral surgery, periodontal therapy, endodontic, prosthodontic and implant placement and restoration Anticipates surgeons/specialists needs at each stage of treatment

Work Schedule: Intermittent Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

US Department of Veterans Affairs