Job Information
Capital Area Health Network Dental Assistant in Richmond, Virginia
POSITION SUMMARY
Provide quality care and services to patients by directly assisting dentists and other dental team members in a variety of patient care, office and laboratory duties. Ensure all patients enjoy a positive experience and are treated with care and compassion.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist dentist chair-side by organizing and preparing instruments for dentists use and assisting as needed during procedures.
- Take clinically acceptable x-rays as requested by the dentist. Manage digital radiographs.
- Prepare and maintain dental instruments, materials and equipment.
- Collect and record patient health histories (dental and medical) and record information for dentists reference prior to examination.
- Advise patients in dental care instructions following procedures.
- Follow through with post-visit duties.
- Demonstrate knowledge of dental procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray setup and materials.
- Stay up to date on OSHA and HIPAA guidelines.
- Communicate effectively with all office staff and patients
- Interact positively with a diverse patient population.
- Demonstrate knowledge of skills necessary to meet the patients physical and educational and safety needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES
- Turn on and off compressor upon arrival and departure from clinic.
- Maintain proper infection control when assisting in the operatory. (Personal Protective Equipment- Protective Eye-ware, mask, gloves and barrier gown)
- Dispose of sharps once a month in the proper manner.
- Dispose of infectious waste in the proper manner.
- Chart patient dental conditions according to protocol.
- Teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health
- Perform supra-gingival prophylaxis and apply sealants when necessary.
- Greet every patient in the waiting room, introduce yourself and escort them to the operatory
- Take blood pressure readings on all patients.
- Dispatch lab work appropriately.
- Accountable for office supply order, ensuring the office is fully stocked and materials are up to date.
- Follow duties as described in the CAHN dental assisting manual I received during orientation.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Demonstrate success in computer skills including ability to use computer for scheduling, word documents and reasonable keyboard skills.
- Ability to keep all patient information strictly confidential
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to be pleasant, courteous, punctual and efficient
- Ability to handle multiple tasks in a stressful environment.
LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED
- Radiation safety certification
- DANB Certification preferred.