Dental Assistant

The Dental Assistant works under general supervision. Sets up and take radiographs (digital and/or manual), and logs in x-rays taken. Assists in taking the patient’s vital signs. Assures that all paperwork, documentation and records are ready and available at the time patients arrive for clinic visits. Is responsible for requisitioning, dispensing and maintain supplies and equipment in the assigned clinical areas. This position reports clinic equipment malfunctions to the dental maintenance area. This position is responsible for sterilization of equipment assigned to the respective clinics. This position works with faculty, residents and students.

Pay Range - $18.91 - $23.98

Essential Functions (Duties and Responsibilities) – Assign a percentage to each essential function

• Assists dental faculty, residents and students.
• Prepares for dental treatment by draping patient with covering.
• Arranges dental instruments, materials and medications on chair side tray in the order they are to be used, according to scheduled treatment.
• Keeps oral areas clear during dental procedures by use of suction devices, cotton rolls, holders, etc.
• Passes instruments to the Dentist and assists during oral surgery.
• Mixes dental material for procedure being done.
• Sterilizes instruments using autoclaves or chemical disinfectants.
• Produces 3D digital radiographs for the performance of implant surgeries.
• Produces digital radiographs for all student clinics.
• Takes digital radiographs and mounts prints for review and study.
• Change developing solutions in developers as needed, and logs in number of exposures daily.
• Takes patients vital signs, pour, trim and polishes casts and removable appliance.
• Conducts plaque controls program and provides home care instructions.
• Assists students in x-ray techniques and terminology; provides training in four-hand techniques.
• Performs clerical duties, receives patients, arranges appointments and records treatment.
• Keeps inventory of materials in stock and what's used.
• Assist with procedures performed by students; answers the telephone and takes messages.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.
• Dispense instruments and supplies to faculty, students, and residents.

• Obtain, verifies and records patient demographic information.

• Retrieve and timely response to patient messages (telephone and automated (Televox).

• Requisitions supplies for the appropriate clinical area. Issues supplies and equipment to dental students working in the appropriate clinical area.

                                                                                                                                       

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Professional and courteous, ability to multi-task and knowledge of dental terminology and HIPPA.
• Knowledge of names and use of dental instruments and equipment.
• Knowledge of basic methods of dental record keeping and reporting.
• Knowledge of sterilization/infection control techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of record keeping and reporting.
• Working knowledge of equipment and instruments used in Dentistry.
• Ability to maintain adequate inventories supplies.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with faculty, residents, students and other employees.
• Ability to evaluate and assist Faculty, residents, students in chair procedures.
• Ability to understand technical and medical nomenclature.
• Ability to file alphabetically and numerically.
• Ability to relate to the public in a tactful and courteous manner.
• Ability to accomplish other duties within the scope of a dispensary clerk as assigned by the supervisors

Education and Experience:

High School or equivalent and successful completion of a dental assistant program and registration with the State of Tennessee required.  Prior experience working with 2D, and 3D radiology equipment preferred.  A minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a medical/dental receptionist, insurance processor or a similar position in a medical/dental office, hospital, insurance company, health plan or other health related facility. Experience with computerized scheduling and billing systems; bilingual preferred.

Environmental Conditions and Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Visual acuity to detect cleanness.
• Regular exposed to the risk of blood borne pathogens.
• Occasionally exposed to radiation hazards.
• Exposed to hazards from sharp instruments.
• Requires full range of body motion including lifting patients.
• Visual and auditory acuity.
• Manual dexterity with both hands.
• Occasionally lifting and carrying items weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Involves possible exposure to hazardous material, infectious body fluids and airborne particles.
• Exposure to communicable diseases.