Dental Assistant

City of Springfield; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization as a full-time dental assistant, where you'll leverage your clinical and administrative expertise to support dental providers and enhance patient care. In this role, you'll assist in various dental treatments, manage records, and ensure a smooth office operation. This position is perfect for those who are passionate about dentistry and want to make a positive impact in the community. With a focus on patient care and a collaborative environment, this opportunity offers the chance to grow your skills while contributing to a vital public service.

Qualifications

• Graduation and certification from an accredited dental assisting school required.
• At least two years of experience assisting a dentist with x-ray certification.

Responsibilities

• Assist dental providers with clinical tasks and patient care.
• Maintain electronic health records and manage patient scheduling.

Skills

Clinical Skills

Administrative Skills

Bilingual (Spanish)

Knowledge of MassHealth Billing

X-ray Processing

Education

Graduation from Accredited Dental Assisting School

X-ray Certification

Tools

Electronic Health Records Software

Dental Equipment

Job description

Position Overview

This full-time dental assistant position requires excellent clinical and administrative skills. The qualified candidate will assist dental providers and perform related office work during the week. Responsibilities include record keeping, managing clerical details, providing diagnostic aid, assisting the dentist and/or dental hygienist, preparing and dismissing patients, and performing various dental treatments and laboratory tasks. Knowledge of the MassHealth billing and reimbursement process is mandatory. Bilingual (Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply.

Clinical Functions

• Assist the dentist and/or dental hygienist by charting the mouth and teeth of patients as directed.
• Pass instruments and perform routine tasks in patient care as directed.
• Perform coronal polishing of dentition (CDA only).
• Apply sealants (CDA only) and perform other procedures as directed.
• Take and process x-rays as directed.
• Prepare tray setups for dental procedures.
• Mix amalgam and composite filling materials according to instructions.
• Clean treatment rooms and equipment regularly.
• Maintain small dental equipment, including autoclaves and developers.
• Clean, prepare, and sterilize instruments according to guidelines.
• Assist in the Operating Room as directed (CDA only).

Administrative Functions

• Register, schedule, and check out patients as needed.
• Maintain electronic health records and notify the Front Desk Supervisor of issues.
• Maintain dental charts, records, and files.
• Communicate with other providers and insurance companies as needed.
• Order dental and administrative supplies.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of routine dental office practices.
• Ability to take, process, and mount diagnostic-quality x-ray films.
• Ability to sterilize and care for instruments and equipment.
• Ability to chart mouth and teeth accurately.
• Willingness to learn dental laboratory and office routines.
• Ability to alleviate patient anxieties and promote trust.
• Proficiency in operating a computer and maintaining electronic health records.

Minimum Requirements

• Graduation and certification from an accredited dental assisting school (CDA).
• At least two years of experience assisting a dentist, with x-ray certification (DA).
• Experience with MassHealth insurance billing and reimbursement.