Staff Dental Assistant

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; Lebanon (Lebanon County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare facility is seeking a Staff Dental Assistant to support patient care in various dental procedures. Responsibilities include facilitating patient care in restorative dentistry, assisting in oral surgeries, and ensuring the highest standards of patient education. The position requires relevant certifications and interpersonal skills to provide effective patient support.

Qualifications

• Must be U.S. citizen and proficient in English.
• At least 6 months experience or completion of relevant dental program.
• Certification as a radiographer required.

Responsibilities

• Assist patients with questions and concerns.
• Set up operatory for procedures and clean dental units.
• Follow infection control procedures and prepare instruments.

Skills

English Language Proficiency

Interpersonal Skills

Patient Education

Education

1-year dental program accredited by ADA

Certification for radiologic procedures

Job description

Summary

The position is located in the Dental Department of the Surgery Care Line at the Lebanon VA Medical Center. The assistant enhances the dentist's capabilities by facilitating patient care in restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, radiology, and oral surgery. The assistant also provides emotional support for patients, assumes delegated responsibilities from the dentist, and acts as a liaison between the Dental Clinic and the medical center sterilization program.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements:

• United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
• English Language Proficiency: Dental assistants must be proficient in spoken and written English.
• Experience and Education: Six months experience demonstrating the ability to perform the work, or successful completion of a 1-year dental program accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Certification: Must meet credentialing standards in 42 CRF Part 75 for radiologic procedures, including completion of a recognized educational program and certification as a radiographer.
• Additional certifications or examinations may qualify candidates, including completion of the Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination or equivalent courses and exams.
• Grade Determinations: GS-06 Staff Dental Assistant (Full Performance Level): At least 1 year of experience at the GS-05 level demonstrating core competencies, including knowledge of anatomy, medical emergencies, instruments, materials, and procedures, as well as ability to learn software programs and communicate effectively.

Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting and carrying, straight pulling and pushing, use of fingers, walking, standing, repeated bending, rapid mental and muscular coordination, near and far vision (correctable), depth perception, ability to distinguish colors, hearing (aid permitted), and mental and emotional stability.

Environmental Factors: Noise, dust, fumes, smoke, gases, radiant energy, machinery, and close work with others.

Duties

• Show courtesy, respect, and a positive attitude for patients, co-workers, and the public.
• Assist patients with questions and concerns.
• Set up operatory for procedures and clean dental units for timely turnover.
• Pass instruments safely, accurately, and efficiently.
• Keep operative field clear and retract oral tissues effectively and comfortably.
• Prepare dental medicaments and impression materials per manufacturer's instructions.
• Ensure imaging is diagnostic quality, accurately oriented, and exposed, utilizing safety techniques to minimize retakes.
• Complete imaging requests within the desired time frame.
• Provide patient education tailored to individual needs and oral conditions.
• Follow infection control procedures and prepare instruments for sterilization according to SPD standards.
• Provide oral hygiene instructions and general information to patients.
• Prepare instruments and materials for operating room procedures and assist in oral surgery following proper protocols.
• Answer telephone and schedule patients as needed.
• Assist the Periodontist, Oral Surgeon, and Endodontist.

Work Schedule: 10-hour shifts, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday, with 1 day off. Virtual work is not available.

Additional Information: Functional Statement #: 000000. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized. Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized.