Registered Dental Assistant

• Performs morning opening procedures in preparation for patient care
• Greets and seats patients and informs the dentist that patient is ready
• Takes and processes x-rays as directed by the dentist
• Prepares the treatment tray in preparation for dental care
• Assists the dentist within established licensing and supervisory limitations
• Adheres to standards for infection control and personal protection in accordance with SMDC, local, state and federal OSHA regulations
• Disinfects the dental operatory prior to and after patient care
• Maintains the dental unit vacuum unit solids collector (trap) and lines
• Replenishes the dental unit distilled water supply
• Cleans, organizes and stocks inventory in the dental operatories, sterilization area, laboratory and darkroom
• Maintains, sterilizes and disinfects all x-ray machines and processors, sterilizers, operatory equipment, dental hand-pieces, procedure instruments and other equipment utilized during daily operations
• Documents the sterilization inventory board to maintain adequate supply sterilized instruments
• Completes laboratory work as needed and manages cases to be sent out and the return date for their delivery
• Performs and documents the inventory of all department equipment
• Performs and documents the testing and maintenance of sterilizers, eyewash stations, emergency resuscitation gear, defibrillator and fire extinguishers
• Provides and obtain patient signatures on printed treatment plans, consent forms, referral consultations, information release waivers and notification of SMDC practice policies
• Manages chart documents for FAX, scan and copy in accordance with current policy and HIPAA restrictions
• Reports workplace hazards and safety issues promptly according to SMDC and OSHA regulations
• Complies with the posted General Industry Safety Orders Code of Safe Practices
• Performs afternoon closing procedures after the completion of patient care
• Maintains strict confidentiality with regard to all components of the patient dental record, other personal information acquired during the performance of job duties and concerning SMDC and interdepartmental discussions.
• Attends all full staff and departmental meetings
• Attends and participates in all SMDC drills, trainings and unscheduled meetings conducted during hours of operation
• Performs all job functions in compliance with SMDC policies and procedures

 Under indirect supervision

• Performs extra-oral duties or functions in compliance with the California Dental Board Committee on Dental Auxiliaries and as directed by the supervising dentist
• Operates dental radio-graphic equipment for the purpose of oral radiography in compliance with section 1656 of the California Business and Professions Code

Under direct supervision

• Performs duties in compliance with the California Dental Board Committee on Dental Auxiliaries and as directed by the attending Dentist and/or the Dental Director  

• Certificate of Completion from accredited Dental Assistant School
• One year as a Registered Dental Assistant
• California Dental X-ray License
• California Coronal Polishing Certificate
• California Cavitron Scaler Certificate
• California Dental Sealant Certificate
• Current CPR Certification

Desirable:

• Tribal clinic experience
• Dental receptionist experience

Skills and Knowledge:

Essential:

• Thorough knowledge of laws and regulations governing the management of dental records
• Working knowledge in dental office procedures
• Working knowledge in the use of a FAX, scanner and copy machine
• Working knowledge in the use Microsoft Office Suite and Windows based computer programs
• Ability to communicate effectively in the English language
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
• Ability to stand and walk for up to eight hours at a time
• Ability to use electronically based dental practice management system
• Ability to enter data into computer at the rate of at least 30 words per minute
• Ability to communicate and interact effectively with patients and staff
• Ability to complete forms and documents
• Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to perform repetitive bending, reaching, pulling and pushing
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor
• Ability to appear to work on time
• Ability to accept constructive criticism

Desirable: