Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant

Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional Dental Assistants at the GS-6 level fulfill all the functions of a lower wage/grade level Dental Assistant, but also have experience working as an assistant to a dental specialist or in a hospital environment. The Dental Assistant is responsible for performing the duties that a dental assistant would be required to perform in a hospital-based dental clinic. The VA St. Louis Health Care System offers a full complement of health care services to eligible veterans. Major Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Preparing for treatment
• Gathering patients records prior to procedure
• Laying out necessary instruments, medications and materials in proper arrangement
• Seating and draping patient
• Explaining treatment procedures to the patient
• Mixing materials for impressions and restorations
• Assembling syringes for anesthesia
• Obtain and record the patient's vitals (blood pressure, temperature, etc)
• May participate in stand-up dentistry or four-handed sit-down dentistry
• Anticipate the dentist's need at each stage of the treatment procedure
  • Pass instruments, medications, materials while using proper techniques and dexterity
  • Retracting tissue, keeping operation area clear, clipping sutures in oral surgery
  • Observe patient throughout treatment for signs of shock, distress, fainting
  • Effective communication and influence with patients during treatment episodes

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday | 7:00 am - 3:30 pm CST

Recruitment/Relocation Incentives (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 000000

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized