Specialty Dental Assistant Periodontics

PDS Health; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

PDS Health is seeking a Specialty Dental Assistant for its Tacoma location. This role involves supporting dental clinicians and ensuring a positive patient experience through effective care and communication. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, relevant certifications, and a commitment to patient care. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, and paid time off.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

401K

Community volunteer time

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid licenses and registrations as mandated.
• For Specialty Dental Assistants: valid driver’s license and insurance.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and prepare patients for treatment.
• Maintain a clean, sterile environment and sterilize instruments.
• Record patient charting and clinician’s notes.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Confidentiality

Independence

Education

High school diploma or GED

One-year certificate from an accredited college or technical school

Job description

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Now is the time to join Tacoma Smiles Dentistry. You will have opportunities to learn new skills from our team of experienced professionals. If you're ready to take your career to the next level and gain valuable experience, apply today!

The primary role of the Dental Assistant is to support the success of the clinicians through effective delivery of the Perfect Patient Experience (PPE), thus creating a Patient for Life (PFL). Dental assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties. Dental assistants prepare patients for oral examination and assist other dental professionals in providing treatment to the teeth, mouth, and gums. They must work effectively with co-workers including Specialty dental assistants, patients, and the front office by sharing ideas constructively. A successful dental assistant will listen actively, keep commitments, keep others informed, and address problems constructively.

Specialty Dental Assistants: If assigned within specialty areas such as Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontics, or Pediatric dentistry, they will primarily support clinicians within that specialty and may require additional training.

Responsibilities:

1. Perform functions according to the applicable state’s Dental Auxiliaries Table of Permitted Duties.
2. Participate actively in the PPE by focusing on patient needs and concerns.
3. Escort patients and introduce them to team members as appropriate.
4. Coordinate with the front and back office to ensure smooth scheduling.
5. Maintain a clean, sterile, and cheerful environment.
6. Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment following infection control guidelines.
7. Prepare patients for treatment and assist the dentist to enable efficient, quality care.
8. Complete radiographs and intra-oral pictures efficiently under clinician’s direction.
9. Prepare tray setups and replenish supplies as needed.
10. Keep patients’ mouths dry and clear using suction or other devices.
11. Instruct patients on postoperative and oral health care.
12. Record patient charting and clinician’s notes in the digital system.
13. Support patient care by presenting treatment records, consents, and health history.
14. Ensure equipment maintenance according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
15. Work with Lead Dental Assistant to manage supplies.
16. Operate and explain technology to others.
17. Participate in team meetings and uphold company culture and values.
18. Support the implementation of the Perfect Patient Experience process.
19. Maintain professional appearance and demeanor.
20. Comply with company policies and regulatory standards.
21. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

1. High school diploma or GED, with required state training/certification.
2. Valid licenses and registrations as mandated.
3. For Specialty Dental Assistants: valid driver’s license and insurance, or reliable transportation for travel between offices.

Preferred: One-year certificate from an accredited college or technical school, or equivalent experience.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Ability to communicate effectively, apply policies, interpret documents, operate basic software, and work independently or as part of a team. Must handle confidential records and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision insurance; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; 401K; community volunteer time.

Compensation: $25.25-$35.00/hourly

PDS Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating a healthy, happy team.