Job Summary
Under the general supervision of a Dentist in a clinical setting, assists the dentist in providing dental treatment. Assists in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care for dental assistants. The duties include:
- Prepares and maintains dental instruments, supplies and equipment; prepares the operatory for the patient visit. Ensures that the dentist has all needed supplies ready for each appointment.
- Retrieves and seats patient in chair and explains procedures to be performed after 2 patient identifiers verified; Stays engaged with the patient during entire encounter. Collects and records patient health histories and vitals.
- Takes and prepares radiographs using digital technology, following radiograph procedure and following proper radiation safety precautions with 2 patient identifiers being completed. Wears dosimeter badge at all times in clinic and follows proper procedures concerning badge.
- Provides active chairside assistance; transfers instruments as appropriate for four-handed dentistry; anticipates the dentist’s needs and engages in time outs prior to procedure.
- Performs, monitors, and records all sterilization activities on log to include weekly biological spore testing. Maintains proper aseptic techniques necessary with dental equipment; maintains and properly sterilizes instruments. Routinely cleans, disinfects and restocks operatory.
- Adheres to CDC guidelines for proper infection control guidelines in the dental setting, to include wearing all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper hand washing requirements.
- Performs daily, weekly, monthly and annual maintenance on all dental equipment. Inform supervisor of equipment failure as soon as possible.
- Assist in loading/unloading dental equipment for clinic. Handle equipment with extreme care and ensure equipment is secure at all times, including inside the truck during transportation.
- Establishes and maintains good relationships with clinic site hosts that include all school staff.
- Ensure patient safety at all times including but not limited to, having patient wear safety glasses during appointment, being chairside with young patients, not leaving patients unattended, making sure walkways are not cluttered, etc.
- Assists, when needed in charting in electronic health record and entering patient notes of any patient contact concerning care or attempt to contact patient.
- Ensures notification of dental supplies/materials needed in ample time to receive order. Stocks supplies according to need. Ensures the safety of supplies that are temperature sensitive.
- Assists in front office type duties as job allows; Assists in calling patients/parents for appointments, calling parents for information such as informed consent or to communicate any urgent need for child's care, helps fill schedule during cancellations.
- Assists in driving dental vehicles after being added to company insurance policy to help deliver equipment or set up clinic.
Education and Experience
- Two (2) year degree
- Zero (0) to one (1) year experience in field or related field
- Successful completion of an accredited Expanded Duty Dental Assisting Program or Dental Hygiene Program.
Hours
Monday-Friday, 40 Hours, Full Time
Location
Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Lee and Marlboro Counties(Travel to areas are required)
CareSouth Carolina is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all. We seek to have a diverse, inclusive workforce and encourage applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, citizenship, disability or veteran status.