Dental Assistant

About Church Health

As a faith-based health care not-for-profit, Church Health believes in caring for one another as we'd all like to be cared for. That's why we commit every day to making the highest quality health care accessible to more Memphians, especially those facing social and economic challenges-so we can all live our lives with dignity, vitality and joy.

With services that span all ages, including the youngest of us, and that treat the whole person, we make it possible for more Memphians to live fully. Today, with the support of our partners, volunteers and donors, we conduct an average of 60,000 patient visits a year in Memphis and serve as a model for countless communities across the nation.

Job Title: Dental Assistant

Department: Dental

Reports to: Dental Manager

Classification: Regular, Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Work location: Onsite

Starting Pay Range: $40,280 - $47,388

Job Summary:

The Dental Assistant is responsible for assisting the dentist in clinical procedures, patient care, and maintaining a clean and efficient work environment. This position requires adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry and ensures the delivery of quality dental care to patients.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Greet and prepare patients for dental procedures, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed.
• Take and develop dental x-rays as directed by the dentist.
• Set up treatment rooms with necessary instruments and materials for procedures.
• Assist the dentist chairside during examinations and treatments, including fillings, extractions, and crowns/prosthetics, etc. This may include preparing materials for treatment like amalgam, composite, and impression.
• Sterilize dental instruments and operatories to maintain infection control standards.
• Maintain accurate patient records, including charting dental conditions and documenting procedures.
• Independently complete services allowed by State of TN licensing under the supervision of the treating dentist.
• Take patient vitals as needed and monitor patients during procedures.
• Provide post-operative care instructions following dental treatments and schedule follow up appointments when needed.
• Manage patient flow, ensuring the timely and efficient delivery of care.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and preventive care.
• Provide patients with information on treatment plans and answer any questions they may have regarding their care.
• Perform routine maintenance on dental equipment, notifying the office manager of any repairs or replacements needed.
• Monitor inventory levels for dental supplies and materials, assist with ordering as necessary.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong understanding of dental procedures and terminology.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a focus on patient care and comfort.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and multitask.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Proficient in using computers and basic office equipment.
• Experience with electronic dental record systems.

Education and Experience:

• A High School Diploma or GED is required.
• RDA certification with radiology certificate in TN is required.
• CPR certification is required.
• Certification in coronal polishing, sealant application, and nitrous monitoring is preferred.
• 1-3 years of experience is preferred.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The ability to stand or sit for extended periods, bend, reach, have good manual dexterity, maintain good hand-eye coordination, and occasionally lift moderate weights, while also requiring mobility to move between rooms and maneuver in small spaces.

Benefits Package

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 11 Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Match
• FSA/HSA Options
• Basic Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program

Commitment to Diversity

At Church Health, we are committed to diversity, striving to create a staff that reflects the diverse communities with which we work. We seek individuals of all backgrounds to join our team.