Job Description: Dental Assistant
This employee provides advanced intra-oral dental tasks and procedures during patient examinations and treatments. Performs essential clinical support functions for the operation of a dental clinic and related duties as required.
Note: This description is illustrative. Not all positions require all listed skills, knowledge, or responsibilities.
Knowledge of:
- Principles and properties of dental restorative materials
- Proper use and maintenance of dental equipment, instruments, and supplies
- Infection control rules and regulations (CDC, OSHA, State Dental Board)
- Safe handling of contaminated instruments and waste
- Potential exposure to infectious diseases (HIV, HBV, etc.)
- Basic life support for dental emergencies
- Techniques in four-handed dentistry assistance
Skills:
- Operate dental software and input data
- Use dental equipment and instruments
- Expose, process, and mount radiographs
- Prepare study models and place restorative materials
- Communicate effectively with patients in lay terms
Abilities:
- Perform dental and periodontal charting
- Assist in four-handed dentistry tasks
- Maintain dental instruments and equipment
- Provide oral hygiene instructions
- Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
- Explain procedures, policies, and situations to patients and staff
- Write legibly and concisely in proper English
- Handle complaints professionally
- Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
- Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision
Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma plus training or three years of chairside dental assisting experience.
Other Requirements:
- Valid Driver's License
- Dental Assistant Radiographer License from the Ohio State Dental Board
Military Education & Experience:
Military training and experience may be substituted for formal education on a case-by-case basis, following ACE guidelines.
Examples of Work Performed:
- Placement of sealants and restorative materials
- Intra-oral procedures such as retraction, impression-taking, and anesthesia applications
- Assisting during dental procedures and recordkeeping
- Radiography, model preparation, and patient education
- Maintaining a sterile and organized clinic environment
Probationary period: Four months. Supervision exercised: None.