Dental Assistant, On Call

Position Summary

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dental Assistant (DA) is a key member of the Native American Health Centers (NAHC) Dental Department who will provide chairside assisting support in a multi-disciplinary setting. The DA will work at both General and Pediatric clinics, and will perform all duties in accordance to the Dental Practice Act, adhere to infection control practices and maintain HIPPA standards.

This position will work occasional Saturdays, as needed and directed by operations.

The Native American Health Center is an accredited institution and adheres to the standards of excellence set forth by the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) and the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA).

• Perform all duties with excellence and in accordance with the Dental Practice Act of California.
• Assist in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consisted with accepted standards of care for Dental Assistants.
• Display optimal customer services by greeting all members in a professional and timely manner.
• Exhibit good chairside manners by displaying a calm and patient demeanor, have the ability to work well with various populations (e.g. children and individuals with mental and physical disabilities)
• In collaboration with the dentists, provide oral hygiene instructions to members and parents/caregivers.
• Apply topical anesthetic as requested by the assigned dentist.
• Obtain and record members vital signs (i.e., blood pressure, temperature, etc.) as indicated by the treatment rendered and/or requested by the assigned dental provider.
• Capture diagnostic quality radiographs by use of digital technology in a manner that is accurately documented into the members EDR.
• Prepare operatory for member reception, according to departmental policy and ensure operatory is as aseptic as possible for member welfare in adherence to infection control practices
• Perform chart preparation practices by reviewing the chart notes for the planned treatment, in order to set up trays and operatory appropriately.
• Prepare instruments, trays, materials and equipment for all dental procedures
• Prior to dental treatment, provide pre and post-operative instructions, review all required forms (e.g. consents, timeout form), ensure completeness and gathering of signatures with guidance from the assigned dental provider
• Apply four handed chairside assisting techniques by working closely with the dental provider to optimize visibility, isolation and transfer of instruments and materials to allow for the procedure to be completed in a more efficient and ergonomic manner. This includes following all instructions front the assigned dental provider at chairside.
• Assist clinical staff in optimizing member flow. This will include keeping work areas well organized, stocked and clean. Seating members, floating and supporting other dental team members with care. Obtain preliminary impressions for diagnostic and opposing study models
• Manage prosthetic lab cases by pouring, packaging and recording the outgoing case into the tracking log in a manner that is complete, accurate and timely. Record incoming cases, in a tracking log, and store in designated area.
• Proactively inform the Dental Assistant Supervisor (DAS) of any supplies that need to be replenished, so consistent levels of supplies are maintained at all times
• Proactively communicate and work effectively with dental personnel to best serve members by relaying information regarding member care as appropriate (e.g. referrals)
• Perform Sterilization and maintenance procedures in accordance to department policy and manufacturers guidelines
• Oakland only:
  Will assist Orthodontist with ligature ties removal and replacement under the guidance of the orthodontist.
• Participate in outreach and off-stie events providing dental treatment off-site (i.e. at mobile and sate lite clinics) when requested by direct supervisor
• Provide translation services, as needed, for the department.
• Member Care:
  Demonstrate understanding and apply working knowledge of safety policies and ensuring safe member practices.
• Employee Safety:
  Safely performs all duties; follows required protective protocols to ensure personal safety as well the safety of others.
• Must maintain compliance with ergonomic safety standards; be mindful of posture and regularly practice ergonomic stretches.
• Actively participate in internal quality improvement teams and work with members proactively to drive quality improvement initiatives in accordance with the mission and strategic goals of the organization, federal and state laws and regulations, and accreditation standards, when assigned.
• HIPAA:
  Keep all protected health information (PHI) confidential and abide by HIPAA policies for the release and disclosure of any PHI. Will report unauthorized use of disclosure of PHI immediately, to supervisor or HIPAA security officer.
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.