Dental Assistant

Position Summary:

The Dental Assistant provides chairside and clinical support to dentists in a fast-paced community health center environment. This role assists with patient care, prepares and maintains treatment areas, and ensures patient comfort and safety.

All duties are performed under the supervision of a licensed dentist in accordance with the Kentucky Dental Practice Act. 

Expanded duties may be assigned to individuals with EDDA/EFDA certification as permitted by state regulations.

  Dental Assistant (Core Duties)

• Work under the direct supervision of dentists regarding patient care.
• Welcome patients, taking vital signs, reviewing medical history, and preparing them for dental procedures. 
• Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for procedures.   
• Sterilize instruments, set up trays with necessary tools, and ensuring proper infection control protocols are followed. 
• Assist dentist chairside, maintaining a clear operating field (suction, retraction, air/water).
• Take dental radiographs (with Kentucky certification) ensuring proper positioning and technique. 
• Mix dental materials (cements, composites, etc.) and assist with placement as directed.
• Providing oral hygiene instructions, demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques, and explaining post-operative care. 
• Maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, verifying insurance benefits, and completing necessary paperwork. 
• Participating in community health initiatives to promote dental awareness and access to care. 
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of operatories. 
• Comply with HIPAA, OSHA, and infection control standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Expanded Duties (EDDA/EFDA)

• Perform coronal polishing.
• Take impressions of teeth for crowns, bridges, or dentures. 
• Apply permanent restorations to prepared teeth. 
• Apply topical fluoride and sealants on teeth. 
• Clean and polish the visible surfaces of teeth after dentist or hygienist scale.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of dental assisting experience.
• Kentucky radiography certification (or ability to obtain within six months of hire).
• Current CPR certification or ability to obtain.
• EDDA/EFDA: Completion of EDDA training program.
• Knowledge of dental terminology and procedures.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Proficiency in taking dental x-rays.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.