Dental Assistant

Description:

POSITION DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Dental Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Dental Health Services

LOCATION: 1575 Blue Hill Avenue, Boston, MA

REPORTS TO: Dental Director

TYPE: Full or Part time

SALARY: Open

Summary:

Under general supervision of the Senior Dentist, the Dental Assistant provides assistance during dental procedures, and performs office/clerical support such as handling and keeping of records, assisting the dentist, taking developing and mounting radiographs, and dental health education.

Responsibilities

75% Direct Patient Services

Prepares patient for dental treatment by seating patient in chair and providing an explanation of the procedures to be performed.
Drapes patient with protective linens and sets up instrument tray containing dental instruments, suction, gauze and other required supplies.
At the chair side, assists dentist during procedure by passing instruments, adjusting light on dental site, suctioning fluids and dental particles. May take and develop dental x-rays.
Assists patient with cleanup following procedure, clears work site of instruments, soiled linens and other materials following proper sterilization procedures and protocols, and prepares for next patient.
A registered Dental assistant will also polish teeth and take master impressions.
May assist laboratory technician in the construction of dental prosthesis and other dental models prepared for patient.
Maintains and expands current level of dental assistant skill and knowledge by periodically attending continuing education programs.
Assist Dentist or Hygienist with School-based screenings.

25 % Administrative Duties

Greeting and scheduling appointments for the patients.
Order office supplies when necessary.
Tracks supplies as needed.
Maintains records of procedures performed by dentist.
Assist with the billing process for the patients.
Performs other related duties as required or assigned.
Requirements:

A successful completion of a certified Dental Assistant Program at an accredited institution is required.

Only candidates who have been formally trained will be considered.

High School education and/ or its equivalency or other specialized training beyond high school is required.

Must possess the ability to make and keep dental charts and records;

Ability to understand written or oral instructions; and ability to work with a variety of personnel, patients and community groups.