OPS DENTAL ASSISTANT

Ops Dental Assistant

This is a dental support position based in a multi-faceted dental care program. Work is performed under the supervision of full-time dentist however, direct responsibility is to any chairside dentist in the provision of patient care, and this employee shall follow instructions by the dentists to assure high quality dental care. During the absence of the Dentist, the person in this position is required to work the desk area, as well as chairside, when necessary to maintain facility operations. Incumbent is expected to communicate (by phone or in person) in a courteous and professional manner at all times. Seats and drapes patients, exposes and develops dental radiographs when State certified, sets up dental instruments, and ensures that all equipment is in proper working condition. Cleans and disinfects operatory before each patient is seated; sterilizes and disinfects all instrument between patients, or as appropriate. Additionally, assists dentist in the chairside care of dental patients: Aspiration of oral cavity Adjustment of equipment and light source Spraying of air and water in the oral cavity Mixing dental materials and cements Handing and receiving dental instruments Performs all expanded duties permitted by State Law Other related chairside duties A risks assessment (completed during each exam, average 3 per patient per year) Complete appropriate form to determine patient outcome (during risk assessment review). Instructing patient and guardian during each visit to ensure they understand the importance of following the treatment plan and proper oral health guidelines. Monthly review of patient plans to monitor progress. Monthly review of operating procedures and track overall oral health successes. Implement changes as needed to help improve clinic efficiency. Use of intraoral camera to assess and diagnose oral health problems in a more efficient manner. Helps patients sign in, administer pre-appointment questionnaires and assists patient with referrals follow up. Utilizes skills in tooth polishing, topical fluoride application, and oral hygiene instructions in accordance with department policy and State Law for all new and recall patients. Maintains patient dental records according to department policy, reviews medical charts, demonstrates job knowledge of dental procedures and is familiar with names and uses of instruments. Maintains current knowledge of techniques and procedures. Completes all required patient charting accurately. Maintains appropriate inventory as directed by the Dentist. Maintains required paperwork, including reviewing encounter forms for completeness; submits clinic reports on time to meet scheduled deadlines. Submits travel, invoices or receives in MFMP in accordance to FS 215.422 Prompt Payment Statue (NOTE: Persistent failure to comply with this section by any agency of the state or the judicial branch shall constitute good cause for discharge of employees duly found responsible, or predominantly responsible, for failure to comply. This is an in-office position.