Dental Assistant

About the Role:

The Dental Assistant at Pine Lake Family Dentistry plays a crucial role in supporting dentists and ensuring the smooth operation of dental procedures. This position involves preparing patients for treatments, assisting during dental procedures, and maintaining a sterile and safe environment to prevent infection. The Dental Assistant will also manage patient records and appointments using specialized dental software, contributing to efficient office workflow. Compassionate patient care and clear communication are essential to help patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their visits. Ultimately, this role is vital in delivering high-quality dental care and enhancing the overall patient experience at our clinic.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of an accredited Dental Assisting program.
• Certification in Infection Control and Sterilization procedures.
• Proficiency in dental terminology and clinical dental assisting techniques.
• Experience with dental practice management software, preferably Dentrix.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to provide compassionate patient care.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a family dentistry setting.
• Certification as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) or equivalent.
• Knowledge of ergonomic body motion techniques to reduce physical strain during procedures.
• Additional training in patient education and communication.
• Familiarity with dental trimming and lab support tasks.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare treatment rooms and dental instruments for patient procedures, ensuring all equipment is sterilized and ready for use.
• Assist dentists during examinations and dental procedures by handing instruments, suctioning, and providing support as needed.
• Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and update dental charts using Dentrix software to maintain accurate and organized documentation.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices and post-treatment care instructions to promote dental health and recovery.
• Maintain strict infection control protocols and adhere to safety standards to protect patients and staff from cross-contamination.

Skills:

The required skills such as Dental Assisting and Dental Terminology are essential for accurately supporting dental procedures and understanding clinical instructions. Sterilization and Infection Control skills ensure a safe environment by preventing contamination and maintaining hygiene standards. Proficiency in Dentrix software facilitates efficient patient record management and appointment scheduling, streamlining daily operations. Compassion and effective communication skills are used daily to comfort patients and explain procedures clearly, enhancing patient trust and satisfaction. Knowledge of body motion techniques helps the Dental Assistant perform tasks ergonomically, reducing fatigue and improving overall job performance.