Certified Dental Assistant

Position Summary/

Department Summary:

Provides technical assistance during dental procedures and examinations according to established policies and procedures. Supports specialists in Endodontics, Prosthodontics, Periodontics or Orthodontics. Periodically performs procedures requiring certification including administering dental prophylaxis, under the supervision of a licensed provider. Acts as a resource for Dental Assistants.

• Greets and directs patients, provides routine information on procedures and escorts patients in and out of service area. Calms and soothes anxious/nervous or uncooperative patients throughout the course of their treatment.
• Reviews schedule, planned procedures and additional equipment/instrument needs with assigned provider prior the start of the clinical session.
• Prepares room and instruments for scheduled treatment. Mixes materials and passes instruments to dental provider as requested. As directed by a licensed provider, instructs patients on proper dental care and follow up.
• Takes, develops, mounts and files dental radiographs that meet departmental standards for quality and readability. Understands proper positioning technique and other requirements when taking panoramic and/or cephalometric films. Checks quality of image and reviews with provider before re taking an image, to minimize exposure to radiation. Takes digital photographs as instructed. May scan physical non digital images into electronic dental record.
• Charts teeth and conditions in patient’s electronic dental record as directed by the licensed provider.
• Maintains the cleanliness of patient areas, workrooms, and equipment. Cleans, disinfects, and maintains dental instruments and equipment. Handles sterile instruments and materials according to standard procedures. Ensures operatory is cleaned and disinfected prior to patient treatment. Monitors status of soiled utility room. Enlists other staff or contacts supervisor to perform routine tasks when needed.
• Takes dental impressions and produces study models. Prepares models according to established procedure for delivery to outside lab facility. Logs lab case information upon submission and return.
• Restocks dental supplies. Identifies and resolves discrepancies in lab cases sent or returned. Orders supplies if indicated.
• Acts as a role model and resource for other dental assistants, providing orientation, training and guidance as appropriate.
• May act as Lead Dental Assistant in his/her absence. Makes daily assignment of assistants to providers and assists in the smooth operation of the daily clinical sessions. Works with the session’s Clinic Attending Dentist to allocate resources and respond to issues.

Current Massachusetts license as a Dental Assistant is required.

High School or equivalent AND Completion of a CODA Accredited Program Certificate

Minimum 1 year experience.

• BLS certification or CPR/AED certification
• Board approved examination for DANB Radiation Health and Safety RHS
• CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board NANB