Dental Assistant

Job Description

The Dental Assistant performs chair side assistance duties in all phases of restorative, prosthodontics, surgical endodontics and periodontal treatments as provided in general dentistry. 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

1. Greet and guide patients through the clinic, ensuring a positive experience and efficient office flow.
2. Assist dentist in all phases of general dentistry, including restorative, prosthodontics, surgical endodontics, and periodontal treatments.
3. Prepare operatory, sterilize instruments, and maintain dental equipment in clean, operative condition.
4. Perform chair side duties utilizing four-handed dentistry techniques, including passing instruments, suctioning, and retracting tissue.
5. Take and develop intra and extra-oral radiographs using dental x-ray equipment.
6. Conduct patient education on oral hygiene, post-treatment care, and preventive measures.
7. Perform intra-oral procedures as directed by the dentist, such as taking impressions, applying fluoride, and removing sutures.
8. Maintain accurate patient records, including medical history and treatment information.
9. Manage dental supplies inventory and equipment maintenance logs.
10. Ensure compliance with infection control protocols, OSHA standards, and other regulatory requirements.
11. Coordinate specialty referrals and follow up as needed.
12. Perform other work-related duties as assigned by the dentist or dental director.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE/REQUIREMENTS:

1. HIgh school diploma or equivalent, required. 
2. Dental Assistant Certification from an accredited college or training institution.
3. Radiology certification as required per AZ, State Dental Laws.
4. Xray Certified as required per AZ, State Dental Laws.
5. Coronel Polish Certified as required per AZ, State Dental Laws.
6. Must obtain certification in Sealant and Coronal polishing within 90-days following successful completion of her/his introductory period.
7. Must have three years of experience in chair side dental assistance.
8. Must be able to work with confidential information and materials without betraying the trust of client/family and NATIVE HEALTH.

Standard Employment Requirements

1. Must possess a valid and unrestricted Arizona driver’s license (within 30 days of hire if applicant is from out-of-state) with no DUI/DWI or reckless driving convictions in the last five years. No more than two at-fault accidents in the last three years. Must maintain a valid Arizona driver’s license during employment. Must be insurable under NATIVE HEALTH’s liability auto policy.
2. Must pass a criminal background check and obtain a Class I Fingerprint Clearance Card within the initial ninety (90) calendar days of employment and retain a valid card while employed with NATIVE HEALTH.
3. Must pass substance abuse testing upon employment and submit to random testing during employment.
4. Must provide an updated immunization (IZ) record at the time of employment.
5. Must have a current (within 12 months) Tuberculosis (TB) skin report upon employment and provide an annual update.
6. Must obtain a First Aid/CPR Card within (90) calendar days of employment and maintain a valid CPR Card during employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Knowledge of dental anatomy, related to oral anatomy, the technical method and procedures of dentistry and the working characteristics of dental instruments and materials to perform a variety of intra-oral procedures including restorative or teeth prepared by dentist.
2. Knowledge and ability to recognize common dental disorders and conditions such as inflamed tissue and tooth decay to perform as directed by dentist intra-oral procedures, which treat these conditions.
3. Knowledge of the front office functions.
4. Skilled in operating and adjusting dental x-ray equipment.
5. Skilled and dexterity in manipulating hand and mechanized dental periodontal instruments and placing materials in patient’s mouth to perform intra-oral procedures such as suture removal and application of rubber dams.
6. Sufficient knowledge of prevention dentistry measures to instruct patients in the common causes of decay and in oral hygiene practices, e.g., brushing and flossing.
7. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
8. Ability to greet all patients/visitors and staff in a positive, friendly, professional and customer-service-oriented manner at all times. 
9. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

Additional Information

Native Health complies with all state and federal requirements, including EEOC requirements.