Dental Assistant I

Dental Assistant Provides clinical, administrative, and operational support within a dental practice to ensure high-quality patient care and efficient clinic operations. Assists dentists and hygienists with patient treatment, diagnostic procedures, infection control, patient flow, and maintenance of dental equipment and supplies. Does this position require Patient Care? YesEssential Functions Assists dentists during all phases of chairside dental treatment. Assists dental hygienists with periodontal charting and dental radiographs. Takes, develops, mounts, files, and maintains dental radiographs in accordance with established protocols. Provides patients with information regarding oral hygiene, preventive dental care, and post-treatment instructions as directed by the dentist. Maintains adequate levels of supplies in assigned operatories and assists with inventory management of dental supplies, instruments, and equipment. Maintains assigned dental equipment and instruments in good working order and reports maintenance needs as appropriate. Pre-treats contaminated instruments and transports them in designated biohazard containers in accordance with infection control, sterilization, and safety protocols. Performs laboratory duties, including pouring and trimming models and preparing materials for treatment as needed. Assists with orthodontic procedures and expanded orthodontic duties following appropriate training and competency validation. Supports patient flow and contributes to a positive patient experience by coordinating appointments, confirming appointments, screening telephone calls, taking messages, and performing clerical duties related to patient access and scheduling. Maintains positive working relationships with patients, families, and colleagues. Assists in the onboarding and training of new personnel as assigned. Participates in departmental meetings, quality improvement initiatives, and other organizational activities. Performs other duties as assigned.