Dental Assistant

Allied Health Professional

Major Duties include but are not limited to: Chairside assisting: Performs a wide range of intra-oral dental procedures associated with various phases of restorative, prosthetic, periodontal, endodontic, oral surgery, implant placement and restoration procedures and provides chairside assistance, fully anticipating the dentist's needs for all instruments, materials, and services using four-handed techniques. 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. Prepares dental medicaments and impression materials per manufacturer's instructions. Accomplishes all intra-operative procedures within standard infection control protocols. Takes preliminary impressions for study models, modifying impression tray as needed. Performs a variety of techniques and skilled, detailed workmanship to complete placement of temporary crowns and bridges. In completing intricate procedures, the assistant must carefully consider detailed aspects of dental anatomy. The product of these procedures must be functionally compatible with the dental anatomy of each patient. Possesses knowledge of dental anatomy, related oral anatomy, the technical methods and practices of dentistry, and the working characteristics of dental instruments and materials sufficient to perform a wide variety of intra-oral procedures, including restoration, of teeth prepared by dentists and adapting and seating stainless steel crowns. Possesses knowledge of and ability to recognize common dental disorders and conditions such as tooth decay and inflamed tissue sufficient to perform intra-oral procedures which treat these conditions, under general supervision of a staff dentist. Dental Imaging Operates dental X-ray equipment for intra- and extra- oral radiographs. Customer service Shows courtesy, respect, and a positive attitude for patients, co-workers and the public. Infection Control and Equipment Sterilization Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning operatories. Clerical Functions Assists patients in scheduling appointments, makes appointments, and handles telephone calls. Records information related to the Medical and Dental history as relayed by the dentist or patient Information Management Maintains patient confidentiality per HIPAA with written and verbal information. Patient Safety Instructs patients in preventive dental care measures, general nutrition as related to dental health, the common causes of tooth decay, and the care of prosthodontic appliances, provides post-operative and other appropriate patient education. Employee Education Complies with Employee Education requirements. Dental Laboratory Functions Pours impressions, prepares, and trims study models. Performs other dental laboratory functions as time and skill levels allow. Direct Patient Care Obtains patient vital signs (BP, pulse, pulse oximeter, temporal temperature) as needed. Applies desensitizing agents, tissue conditioners, topical fluorides, and other topical agents prescribed by the dentist to specified area of the oral cavity. Supply Functions Responsible for communicating with logistics to manage inventory of items supporting the Dental clinic. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Has knowledge of OSHA policies of Safe Work Practices including the hazard Communication Program, Blood Borne Pathogens Standards, Medical Waste Management, Fire and other Emergency Evacuation procedures.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm

Recruitment/Relocation Incentives (Sign-on Bonus): Recruitment or Relocation incentive may be paid to a Highly Qualified candidate. Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 21M34-A