Dental Assistant

Suncoast Community Health Centers, Inc.; Aarons Place (FL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Suncoast Community Health Centers, Inc. seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists during exams and procedures, prepare instruments, ensure patient comfort, and maintain clean, sterile environments across locations.

The role involves front-office and clinical tasks, radiographs, inventory, and coordination with staff; travel to multiple centers is required. Strong communication and infection control knowledge are essential for patient care.

Qualifications

• Dental Assistant Diploma preferred.
• At least two years related experience preferred.
• BLS certification within three months of hire.
• Strong infection control knowledge is essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist the dentist during examinations by preparing instruments and patients.
• Sterilize and maintain dental instruments per infection control protocols.
• Manage patient records, appointments, and billing tasks.
• Expose and develop dental radiographs.
• Travel to different practice locations as required.
• Provide chairside assistance in four-handed dentistry.

Skills

Dental procedures

Sterilization techniques

Patient care

Infection control

Radiography

Office software

Travel readiness

HIPAA compliance

Education

Dental Assistant Diploma

BLS certification

Tools

EMR software

Dental software

MS Office

Job description

DENTAL ASSISTANT

• Assist the dentist during examinations and procedures by preparing instruments, materials, and patients as necessary.
• Ensure patient comfort and safety during treatments, providing clear instructions and addressing any concerns.
• Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols.
• Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance tasks as needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring supplies and materials are well-stocked.
• Adapt to various roles within the dental practice, including front office duties and assisting with dental radiographs.
• Collaborate with dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff to facilitate efficient workflow and patient care.
• Travel to different practice locations as required to provide staffing support.
• Provide chairside assistance in four-handed dentistry.
• Expose and develop dental radiographs.
• Perform cleaning and sterilization of dental instruments and maintenance of dental equipment and treatment areas.
• Conduct inventory of supplies and ensure the safe operation of equipment through preventative maintenance.
• Carry out associated laboratory procedures, such as pouring and trimming models and fabricating custom trays.
• Adhere to SCHC policies, including OSHA standards, HIPAA compliance, and proper PPE use.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the centers.

FLSA: NON-EXEMPT

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist the dentist during examinations and procedures by preparing instruments, materials, and patients as necessary.
• Ensure patient comfort and safety during treatments, providing clear instructions and addressing any concerns.
• Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols.
• Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance tasks as needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring supplies and materials are well-stocked.
• Adapt to various roles within the dental practice, including front office duties and assisting with dental radiographs.
• Collaborate with dentists, hygienists, and administrative staff to facilitate efficient workflow and patient care.
• Travel to different practice locations as required to provide staffing support.
• Provide chairside assistance in four-handed dentistry.
• Expose and develop dental radiographs.
• Perform cleaning and sterilization of dental instruments and maintenance of dental equipment and treatment areas.
• Conduct inventory of supplies and ensure the safe operation of equipment through preventative maintenance.
• Carry out associated laboratory procedures, such as pouring and trimming models and fabricating custom trays.
• Adhere to SCHC policies, including OSHA standards, HIPAA compliance, and proper PPE use.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the centers.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to use office equipment, including computers, copy machines, fax machines, telephones, calculators, and more.
• Proficient in dental procedures, terminology, and use of dental instruments.
• Strong knowledge of infection control protocols and sterilization techniques.
• Familiarity with dental software for managing patient records and scheduling.
• Excellent organizational skills for maintaining an efficient workspace and inventory management.
• Ability to take dental radiographs and perform related tasks.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and related software.

Education And Experience

• Dental Assistant Diploma from an accredited dental assisting program is preferred.
• At least two years related experience preferred.
• BLS is required within three months of hire

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods while assisting during dental procedures and moving around the dental office.
• Strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to handle dental instruments and perform precise tasks, such as taking impressions and applying sealants.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 50 pounds, including dental materials and patient-related items.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and squat to assist with patient care and to maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Must be able to travel to various center locations as required.