Join to apply for the DENTAL ASSISTANT II role at MedNorth Health Center
SUMMARY: Under the general direction of the Dental Manager, the Dental Assistant works as part of the Dental Team performing duties necessary to assist the dental staff. Responsibilities include preparing patients for treatment, processing dental x-ray film, pouring dental impressions, setting up instruments and materials, sterilizing instruments, charting dental anomalies, and managing supplies.
PRIMARY DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct duties professionally and compassionately, creating a positive patient service environment.
- Demonstrate awareness of cultural and socioeconomic differences, reducing barriers to dental care.
- Assist dentists and hygienists in chair-side procedures such as amalgams, composites, oral surgery, endodontics, prophylaxis, sealants, space maintainers, removable prosthodontics, extractions, charting, blood pressure checks, patient instructions, and informed consent.
- Prepare and set up instruments, sterilize, and organize dental rooms.
- Maintain and monitor dental equipment, including compressors, sterilizers, radiographic equipment, and evacuator systems.
- Assist the dentist with procedures as requested.
- Follow OSHA standards and institutional policies, maintaining MSDS information, updating infection control protocols annually, and supporting OSHA reviews.
- Clean and disinfect treatment rooms after each patient, prepare for the next, and organize all areas.
- Protect patient confidentiality in accordance with policies.
- Address patient complaints appropriately.
- Assist with oral health education programs.
- Manage dental lab slips and notify patients when appliances are ready.
- Pour and disinfect dental impressions.
- Assist with ordering and maintaining dental supplies.
- Provide radiology services, maintain radiation safety protocols, and monitor dosimeter badges.
- Perform administrative tasks such as scheduling, chart pulling, and phone communication, when directed.
- Use slow time constructively to support clinical operations and assist other staff.
- Perform duties as permitted by North Carolina Dental Laws and Board Rules.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent; certification from a Dental Assistant II program; radiology certification; minimum two years healthcare experience.
- Technical skills include understanding medical/dental terminology, operating X-ray and lab equipment, and proficiency with Dental Software and internet insurance systems.
- Interpersonal skills include excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service.
- Strong cognitive reasoning, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Fluent in English; Spanish or other languages are a plus.
- Physical ability to perform job duties, including lifting up to 20 pounds and standing for extended periods.
Work Environment and Other Details
The work environment involves exposure to typical clinical settings, noise, and potential allergens like toner and fluorescent lighting. This position is classified as Blood Borne Pathogens Category III. The employee must adhere to safety standards, maintain confidentiality, and participate in ongoing training and meetings.