West Texas Pediatric Dentistry is hiring: Dental Assistant in Midland

Dental Assistant

We are looking for a motivated individual eager to work in a fast-paced environment who can follow a learn-as-you-go method of working. The ideal candidate must enjoy working with both children and parents and either has experience as a Dental Assistant or is a fast learner. We also hope to add a team member who is eager to advance their career and knowledge in dentistry. We offer friendly hours and a close-knit team with a flexible schedule. Pay rate is $19-$23/hr commensurate with experience and/or education.

Reports to: Doctor and Director of Operations

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible for assisting the dentist in the clinical treatment of patients.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

Patient Management

1. Greet patients when they sign in and monitor arrival time.
2. Set up treatment rooms for procedures.
3. Escort patients to treatment room.
4. Seat patients in treatment rooms.
5. Show care and concern, and help patients feel comfortable.
6. Obtain and review health histories according to office protocol.
7. Ensure patients are always attended.
8. Anticipate and assist dentist’s needs.
9. Perform expanded functions and other tasks as assigned by the dentist.
10. Mix dental materials.
11. Ensure patients’ questions are answered thoroughly before they leave.
12. Chart patients and record date, service rendered and any charges.
13. Escort patients from the treatment room.
14. Ensure proper treatment notes are recorded in patient’s chart.
15. Perform clinical procedures as practice act allows and as directed by dentist.
16. Give patient instruction and demonstrate when necessary.
17. Monitor patient flow.
18. Notify team if a patient should be called in the evening after a difficult appointment.

Treatment Room Management and Sterilization

1. Keep dental units ready, stocked and clean.
2. Oversee cleanliness of the treatment room according to sterilization procedures.
3. Disinfect treatment rooms according to OSHA regulations.
4. Sterilize all instruments and handpieces according to OSHA regulations.
5. Keep trays, instruments and treatment room drawers organized.
6. Ensure that office sterilization procedures document is on display.
7. Promptly send out and monitor all dental laboratory cases.
8. Implement the preventative maintenance/cleaning schedule for dental equipment.
9. Maintain dental office emergency kits and nitrous and oxygen tanks.
10. Follow laboratory procedures according to office protocol.

Records Management

1. Securely store and handle patient records in compliance with state and federal requirements, including the HIPAA privacy and security regulations.
2. Accurately file patient information.
3. Arrange patient charts and radiographs for next day’s appointments.
4. Track cases and referrals to and from other doctors.
5. Assist in the administration of the recall system.

Inventory Management

1. Monitor inventory and order dental office supplies as needed.
2. Ensure that treatment rooms are stocked at all times.

Office Participation

1. Help in other areas of the office when necessary (i.e., answering phones, unpacking supplies, completing insurance forms, moving former patient records, etc.).
2. Be an active participant in team meetings.
3. Promote team concept by interacting with others in the office.

PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

Education/Experience

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Graduate of accredited dental assisting program or dental assisting experience preferred.
3. Coursework in dental instruments and procedures.
4. Compliance with state dental practice requirements (e.g., x-ray requirements, OSHA training).
5. Ability to learn PMS.
6. Commitment to CE for career development.

Interpersonal

1. Good interpersonal skills to maintain effective rapport with patients, dentists, other staff members and community.
2. Effective verbal skills to communicate with patients and staff.