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Position Summary
The Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) is a key member of the Native American Health Center’s four-handed dental process, and will increase dentists’ efficiency by providing needed support. The primary responsibility of the RDA is to assist dentists at chair-side and to support departmental staff. The RDA must be professional, objective, and have superior customer service standards.
A lab coat will be provided by the Dental Department. The RDA must wear personal protective equipment such as a mask, gloves, safety glasses while sterilizing and assisting, and follow specific company and OSHA procedures when handling hazardous materials. Long hair must be tied back away from the face and no jewelry may be worn (i.e., earrings, rings).
Duties And Responsibilities
- Perform all duties with excellence and in accordance with the Dental Practice Act of California.
- Provide support to dentists, following all instructions from the assigned dentist at chair-side.
- Perform RDA functions approved by the Dental Board of California.
- Greet all patients in a courteous, professional, and timely manner.
- Ability to work in the General and Pediatric Dental Clinics.
- Explain plaque control to all patients to ensure understanding.
- Provide oral hygiene instructions to patients and parents/caregivers in collaboration with dentists.
- Apply topical anesthetic as requested by the dentist.
- Check patients' vital signs as necessary and/or requested.
- Prepare operatory for patient reception, ensuring aseptic conditions.
- Maintain and prepare pre-set trays for procedures.
- Review chart notes to set up trays and operatory appropriately.
- Ensure all materials and instruments needed for treatment are ready and available.
- Prepare anesthesia for transfer to the dentist.
- Retract oral tissues to increase visual access.
- Remove excess moisture from the mouth.
- Transfer instruments to dentists, maintaining high attention to detail and sterilization standards.
- Prepare and deliver restorative materials.
- Remove instruments after procedures and sterilize according to policy.
- Obtain Informed Consent and deliver postoperative instructions.
- Assist in patient flow, restocking, seating, and supporting other team members.
- Keep work area organized, stocked, and clean.
- Prevent uninvolved people from entering operatories.
- Take impressions and prepare models for transport.
- Operate digital radiography equipment.
- Inform the Dental Lead RDA of supply needs.
- Assist with referrals and prescription processes.
- Provide translation services as needed.
- Demonstrate safety awareness and participate in quality improvement initiatives.
- Work well under pressure, meet deadlines, and demonstrate cooperative behavior.
- Participate in outreach and off-site dental treatments when assigned.
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors and the Dental Director.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Licensed Registered Dental Assistant in California.
- At least one year of RDA work experience.
- Dental x-ray safety license and experience with digital x-ray technology.
- Experience with EDR systems like Dentrix is a plus.
- Coronal polishing license and Sealant Certification.
- Calm, patient demeanor; ability to work with children, elderly, and disabled patients.
- Ability to handle stressful situations and work proactively within a team.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and judgment.
- Knowledge of four-handed dentistry and preventative procedures.
- Experience with Microsoft Office is preferred.
- Knowledge of the Bay Area Native American community and commitment to serving vulnerable populations.
- Fluency in Spanish is preferred.
Benefits
NAHC offers competitive salaries, PTO, sick leave, a 403(b) retirement plan, and comprehensive health insurance options. Additional details are provided in the full job posting.
Note to Applicants
A post-job offer physical, TB test, and possibly DOJ fingerprinting are required. Preference is given to qualified Native Americans with verification of heritage.
Equal Opportunity & Legal Notices
NAHC is an equal opportunity employer, abiding by ADEA and ADA mandates, and providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.
Additional Details
- Seniority level: Entry level
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job function: Health Care Provider
- Industries: Hospitals and Health Care