SUMMARY

The Dental Assistant shall assist Dental Hygienists in conformity with training and within legal limitations as recognized by the American Dental Association and New York State Education Department and shall perform clerical duties in the reception area of the dental department as needed.

This position is located primarily in our Ogdensburg, NY, office but may occasionally be asked to float to provide coverage in our Canton, NY, office.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist dentist/hygienist in performing clinical procedures by passing instruments, retracting tissues, suctioning water, etc., and mixes and formulates dental materials such as cement, impressions, and restoration materials.
• Performs dental services commensurate with training, including instrument sterilization, maintenance of equipment, and implementation of infection control policies.
• Operates dental equipment, including evacuator, autoclave, triturator, and oxygen, as needed.
• Assists the dentist/hygienist in patient management.
• Assists with wheelchair transfer.
• Oversees scheduling of appointments for all dental patients for recall appointments.
• Maintains appropriate, complete, and accurate records, including the tracking of consent forms and following the progress of dental lab (prosthetic) cases.
• Assists in monitoring dental patients who have received oral sedation.
• Performs reception duties and coverage of the reception area as assigned by the supervisor.
• Follows all infection control policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent Required.
• One year of approved chairside experience as a dental assistant is preferred but not required.
• CPR certification is preferred, but training may be provided after employment.
• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations.
• Exhibits a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination
• Ability to sit/stand for long periods
• Regular exposure to infectious diseases, blood and airborne pathogens, needle sticks, hygiene issues, and other odors.
• Able to tolerate hospital smells.
• Ability to read digital readouts, recognize colors and operate necessary equipment.
• Ability to wear necessary hospital masks, gowns, gloves, and close-toed shoes.