Dental Assistant Tier 1

Dental Assistant Job Purpose

Supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment room, patient, instruments, and materials; passing instruments and materials; performing procedures in compliance with the dental practice act.

• Prepare treatment room for patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols.
• Prepare patient for dental treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, and draping patient.
• Provide information to patients and employees by answering questions and requests.
• Provide instrumentation: sterilizing and delivering instruments to treatment area; positioning instruments for dentist's access; suctioning; passing instruments.
• Provide materials by selecting, mixing, and placing materials on instruments and in the patient's mouth.
• Provide diagnostic information by exposing and developing radiographic studies; pouring, trimming, and polishing study casts.
• Maintain patient appearance and ability to masticate by fabricating temporary restorations; cleaning and polishing removable appliances.
• Help dentist manage dental and medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, emergency drug and oxygen supply, and emergency telephone directory.
• Educate patients by giving oral hygiene, plaque control, and postoperative instructions.
• Document dental care services by charting in patient records.
• Maintain patient confidence and protect operations by keeping information confidential.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Protect patients and employees by adhering to infection‑control policies and protocols.
• Ensure operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
• Maintain dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
• Conserve dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

• Dental Health Maintenance
• Use of Dental Technology
• Infection Control
• Patient Services
• Creating a Safe, Effective Environment
• Listening
• Teamwork
• Bedside Manner
• Health Promotion and Maintenance
• Use of Medical Technologies
• Performing Diagnostic Procedures