Dental Assistant
Definition/Description
REPORTS TO Manager/Specialist
WAGE BAND Support
The Dental Assistant provides support to Dentists and Hygienists in the dental clinic with the examination and treatment of patients, and performs other cleaning, maintenance and administrative functions. Works under supervision of the Dental Program Manager, Dentist and Administrative Staff to maintain services that promote oral health in the community. This position works both independently and collaboratively with other staff and has a moderate degree of accountability.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
Position-Specific Duties
• Assists the dentist during examination, oral surgery and treatment of patients by charting mouth and teeth, passing instruments, and preparing necessary materials for dental fillings and other procedures
• Sterilizes and disinfects instruments and equipment and operatory rooms
• Responsible for proper routine equipment maintenance, cleaning and sterilization
• Greets, seats and prepares patients for dental visit
• Takes and develops diagnostic and other x-rays
• Sets up instrument trays
• Schedules appointments and makes referrals as necessary
• Completes client intake and discharge
• Maintains and monitor expiration dates of supplies
• Maintains and follows OSHA MSDS guidelines
• Provides oral hygiene counseling and explanation of procedures as needed
• Responds to in-person inquiries and dispenses necessary information
• Answers questions about program policies and procedures
• Assists in preparing for clinics by completing appointment confirmations as needed
• Responsible for ensuring forms are up-to-date and completed correctly
• Assists clients with completing paperwork and/or retrieving documentation related to their treatment
• Assists with review of electronic dental charts; performs data entry as required
• Assists Dental Program Manager with creation and maintenance of educational modules for clients, schools, clinical staff, and the general public as needed
• Assists with researching specialty and other dental providers and updates referral lists as needed
• With direction of the Dental Program Manager, assists with program accounting, bookkeeping and record keeping
• Prepares and completes coding and billing tasks as needed
• Operates a variety of office equipment, including copier, fax, and computer
• Responsible for inventory tracking for the Dental Program Manager to order
General Duties
• Prepares for and participates in regular meetings with staff and others as required
• Provides feedback to Dental Program Manager for continued program development as well as individual, team, and agency quality improvement and evaluation activities
• Adheres to agency policies and guidelines
• Helps ensure compliance with applicable dental regulations
• Represents agency to external partners, groups, and the general public
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with fellow staff members and promotes a positive working environment
• Promotes and participates in relationship building with other organizations, agencies, or individuals
• Provides support for and/or participates in agency community outreach activities, as directed
• Protects and safeguards confidential agency and client information; exercises sound judgment and caution in communication and transmission of information
• All staff at LCHD may be required to assist in other programs outside of their specific job assignment(s) as needed.
• All employees of the agency are considered emergency responders and may be expected to respond in the event of a public health threat or emergency; this may include, but is not limited to, requirements to work longer shifts, nights, or weekends; alternate working locations; performance of duties other than the daily routine
• Other duties as required or assigned
Minimum and Preferred Qualifications
• Basic understanding of core public health functions, competencies, and essential services
• Working knowledge of the principles, practices, and terminology of oral health
• Basic to advanced understanding of health care billing and coding
• Advanced documentation and records maintenance skills
• Technological aptitude and proficiency
• Proficiency with computer software and applications, including Microsoft Office and specifically Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with electronic health records strongly preferred
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with diverse individuals and groups on complex issues
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to the agency’s mission
• Willingness to engage in personal development, continuous learning, and ongoing training
• Must be able to attend job-related events and meetings
• Physical environment is mostly indoor office setting; operation of dental and office equipment, computers, and phone systems; occasional travel to meetings and presentations; occasional exposure to environmental contaminants including but not limited to needles, body fluids, chemical hazards; potential exposure to diseases due to contact with symptomatic and asymptomatic patients; occasional lifting or moving of heavy (50+ pounds) objects
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed by job holders within this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position.
Please submit a cover letter and résumé by email, fax, or mail, to:
Lincoln County Health Department
5 Health Department Drive
Troy, MO 63379
(636) 528-6117 phone
(636) 528-8629 fax