Dental Assistant I or II

Description

Under the direct supervision by a licensed dentist as permitted by the Maryland COMAR regulations, performs general chair side and clinical functions related to patient dental care, in office, and Mobile Unit (HSIM). Shares responsibility with the dental team for individual patients. Operates x-ray equipment and prepares operatories. Prepares patients for dental treatment and explains procedures. Maintains and demonstrates competence in clinical practice.

Supports and follows through with vision, mission, goals, and objectives of the Family Healthcare of Hagerstown.

Performs Assessment and Treatment

Activities:

Assists with assessing patients and treatment needs. Exhibits the skill and judgment required to follow through on the dentist's orders and procedures necessary for the holistic care of the patient.

• Utilizes the appropriate techniques to assist the dentist with dental procedures. Anticipates the needs of the dentist and the dental team.
• Records all pertinent data in patient's electronic dental record. Assures parental consent is received prior to treatment.
• Performs intra-oral rinsing and aspiration procedures, during dental treatment.
• Retracts oral tissues, including lips, tongue, and flaps, during dental treatment.
• Mixes alginate and pours impression for diagnostic casts accurately.
• Prepares and tracks lab cases and verifies insert date within the scheduling system.
• Demonstrates the ability to calm and reassure patients. Utilizes appropriate behavior modification techniques with confidence. Displays and maintains a professional attitude.
• Wears personal protective equipment per FHH policy.
• Protects patients' safety during dental procedures. Does not leave children in operatories unattended.
• Demonstrates proper body mechanics and exercises safety measures while carrying out detail work activities.
• Appropriately responds to emergency and/or crisis situations. Follows through with appropriate action, identifies appropriate person to handle incident in accordance with FHH policies and procedures.
• When a safety issue arises, immediately notifies supervisor and initiates a written report.
• Work is accurate, thorough, and attention to detail is evident.
• Accurately makes and seats temporary crowns and bridges.
• Places topical anesthetic in location appropriate to treatment plan.
• Takes accurate bite registrations.

Operatory Equipment and Sterilization:
Effectively oversees the preparation and ordering of instruments, equipment and supplies.

• Maintains aseptic technique by removing blood and debris from operatories, maintaining chain of sterility and asepsis and disinfecting equipment between patients per ADA, OSHA, MOSH standards.
• Date-stamps and initials instrument packets and cassettes prior to placing in autoclave.
• Takes responsibility for instruments used in operatory. Prepares instrument cassettes for sterilizer per ADA, OSHA, MOSH standards. Is aware of and follows appropriate sterilization parameters and procedures.
• Works as a team member assisting with instruments utilized by other staff, without prompting.
• Demonstrates care in handling and assembly of equipment.
• Lubricates hand pieces on air station.
• Checks the sterility indicators.

Dental Radiography:
Demonstrates proficient skills and knowledge in taking, scanning, and mounting dental radiographs according to the Maryland State Dental Board.

• Takes radiographs of patient's mouth following Radiation safety guidelines as established by American Dental Association.
• Maintains digital x-ray sensors according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Takes and updates radiographs and Panorex as needed and as dictated by office policy.
• Always places an apron on patients when taking x-rays. Inquires if female patient of childbearing age is pregnant.

Utilizes Time and…