Dental Assistant

Dental AssistantThe Dental Assistant provides clinical and administrative support to dentists and the dental care team to ensure the delivery of safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. This position assists with patient preparation, chairside procedures, radiographs, infection prevention, patient education, and operatory maintenance while promoting a positive patient experience. The Dental Assistant plays an important role in supporting the mission of Health Care Partners of South Carolina by providing compassionate, patient-centered oral healthcare to the communities we serve.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPrepare treatment rooms, instruments, equipment, and materials for patient care and dental procedures.Welcome, prepare, and assist patients before, during, and after dental treatment to promote a comfortable and positive experience.Assist dentists during examinations, restorative procedures, oral surgery, extractions, endodontic, pediatric, and other dental procedures.Obtain and process dental radiographs in accordance with provider orders and applicable safety standards.Record and update patient medical and dental histories, vital signs when appropriate, and other clinical information in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).Provide patient education regarding oral hygiene, preventive care, post-operative instructions, and treatment recommendations.Perform chairside and laboratory duties, including taking impressions, pouring models, and preparing dental materials as permitted by state regulations.Clean, disinfect, sterilize, and maintain dental instruments, equipment, operatories, and treatment areas in accordance with OSHA, CDC, and infection prevention guidelines.Monitor dental supplies, instruments, and equipment, reporting maintenance needs and assisting with inventory management and ordering.Assist with appointment scheduling, patient follow-up, referrals, and other administrative tasks as needed.Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient care and clinical activities in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).Maintain patient confidentiality and protect health information in accordance with HIPAA and organizational policies.Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, continuing education, and organizational quality improvement initiatives.Travel between Health Care Partners of South Carolina dental locations as needed.Perform other duties as assigned.Education & ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent required.Current Dental Assistant certification as required by the State of South Carolina.Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association or American Red Cross preferred.Minimum of one (1) year of experience as a Dental Assistant in a dental office, community health center, or similar clinical setting preferred.Experience working in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) preferred.Experience using Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems preferred.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of dental assisting principles, chairside procedures, radiography, sterilization techniques, and infection prevention practices.Knowledge of OSHA, CDC infection prevention guidelines, and HIPAA regulations.Excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills with a commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced clinical environment.Proficiency in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office.Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and establish positive working relationships with patients, providers, and coworkers.