Dental Assistant

Neighborhood Health; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Neighborhood Health is seeking a dedicated Dental Assistant to support patient care and assist in various dental procedures. The ideal candidate will have completed Dental Assistant training, possess BLS certification, and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills. This role involves managing patient records, assisting during treatments, and maintaining a safe working environment.

Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
• 2-3 years’ experience in radiography and assisting dentists preferred.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Responsibilities

• Prepares patients for treatment and assists the dentist during procedures.
• Records medical and dental histories and vital signs.
• Maintains patient records and documentation in compliance with HIPAA.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Cultural competence

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Completion of Dental Assistant training

Job description

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS: The Dental Assistant performs duties such as preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during restorative dentistry or oral surgery, preparing materials and equipment, taking x-rays, and assisting in laboratory work. Additional responsibilities include making appointments, answering phones, and ordering supplies. Demonstrates dedication to the philosophy and mission of Neighborhood Health.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: (Essential Functions: Duties and responsibilities noted with bullets are considered to be the essential functions of the job)

• Takes and records medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients.
• Exposes dental diagnostic x-rays.
• Makes preliminary impressions for study casts and occlusal registrations for mounting study casts.
• Pours, trims, and polishes study casts; fabricates custom impression trays; cleans and polishes removable appliances; fabricates temporary restorations.
• Assists the dentist in managing medical and dental emergencies.
• Instructs patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
• Provides postoperative instructions prescribed by the dentist.
• Records treatment information in patient records.

• Ensures all patient records and documentation are managed accurately and timely, complying with HIPAA and related regulations.
• Maintains a safe and clean working environment following OSHA procedures.
• Protects patients, staff, and self by adhering to CDC and organizational infection-control policies.
• Operates dental equipment properly, performs preventive maintenance, troubleshoots malfunctions, and reports issues.
• Maintains professional knowledge through continuing education and professional engagement.
• Contributes to team efforts and demonstrates cultural competence in working with diverse populations.
• OTHER DUTIES:
• Prepares and maintains reports as requested.
• Assists in workflow improvements and project roles as assigned.
• Works under minimal supervision and performs additional duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of Dental Assistant training required.
• Dental Assisting National Board certificate preferred.
• 2-3 years’ experience in radiography, equipment maintenance, prophylaxis, and assisting dentists preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and tolerate interruptions.
• Experience with diverse populations and cultural competence.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.