Dental Assistant

 Role Description:

Treehouse Children’s Dentistry Dental Assistants support the delivery of dental care by preparing treatment rooms, patients, instruments, and materials; passing instruments and materials; documenting dental appointments; and performing procedures in compliance with the Dental Practice Act.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Prepare treatment rooms for patients by following prescribed procedures and protocols
• Prepare each patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping them
• Provide information to patients and team members by answering questions and requests
• Provide instrumentation by sterilizing and delivering instruments to treatment areas; positioning instruments for the dentist’s access; suctioning as needed; and anticipating the dentist’s needs throughout procedures
• Take accurate impressions by selecting, mixing, and placing materials on instruments and in the patient’s mouth
• Obtain diagnostic information by exposing and developing radiographic studies and pouring, trimming, and polishing study casts
• Maintain patient appearance and ability to masticate by fabricating temporary restorations and cleaning and polishing removable appliances
• Assist the dentist in managing dental and medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, emergency drug and oxygen supplies, and an up-to-date emergency contact directory
• Educate patients by providing oral hygiene, plaque control, and postoperative instructions
• Document dental care services by accurately charting in patient records
• Maintain patient confidentiality and protect operations by safeguarding sensitive information
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations
• Protect patients and team members by adhering to infection control policies and protocols
• Ensure proper operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements, following manufacturer instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions, coordinating repairs, maintaining equipment inventories, and evaluating new equipment and techniques
• Maintain dental supply inventory by checking stock, anticipating needs, placing and expediting orders, and verifying receipt of supplies
• Conserve dental resources by using equipment and supplies efficiently
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, building professional networks, and participating in professional organizations
• Contribute to team efforts by accomplishing related tasks as needed

Skills and Attributes:
Dental health maintenance; use of dental technology; infection control; patient service; ability to create a safe and effective environment; active listening; teamwork; strong bedside manner; health promotion and maintenance; use of medical technology; and ability to perform diagnostic procedures

Education and Qualifications:
Dental assisting experience required