Dental Assistant

The Dental Assistant plays a key role in assisting dental professionals in providing comprehensive oral healthcare to patients. They perform various clinical and administrative tasks to ensure efficient and safe dental procedures.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare treatment rooms for dental procedures by sterilizing instruments and ensuring all necessary equipment is ready.
• Assist dentists and dental hygienists during patient examinations and treatments.
• Provide chairside assistance by handing instruments and materials to the dentist, maintaining suction, and retracting tissues as needed.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene and post-treatment care instructions.
• Adhere to strict infection control protocols by maintaining a clean and sterile environment.
• Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment in compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• Ensure the proper disposal of hazardous materials and biohazard waste.
• Take and develop dental X-rays as directed by the dentist.
• Maintain accurate records of patient X-rays and other diagnostic images.
• Schedule patient appointments and manage appointment reminders.
• Maintain and update patient records, including medical histories and treatment plans.
• Assist with billing, insurance claims, and payment processing.
• Manage the inventory of dental supplies and order new materials as needed.
• Ensure patient comfort by addressing concerns, providing blankets, and explaining procedures.
• Monitor patients for signs of distress and assist in alleviating anxiety.
• Be prepared to respond to dental emergencies, such as allergic reactions or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
• Assist in performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if required.
• Follow radiation safety guidelines when operating X-ray equipment and protecting patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure.
• Collaborate with other dental team members, including dentists, dental hygienists, and administrative staff, to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Attend team meetings and participate in case discussions.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited dental assistant program or equivalent on-the-job training.
• State-specific dental assistant certification or licensure, if required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Strong knowledge of dental instruments, equipment, and procedures.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Familiarity with dental software and electronic health records (EHR) systems is a plus.