This position is located at the Jicarilla Service Unit, Jicarilla, New Mexico Area Indian Health Service.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Dental Assistant to support clinical dental operations and enhance patient care within our dental practice. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to patient confidentiality, and the technical ability to assist with a wide range of routine and complex procedures in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
-Adhere to all infection control and OSHA protocols as established by clinic policy.
-Maintain strict compliance with HIPAA regulations and internal confidentiality standards to protect patient health information.
-Provide chair-side assistance to dentists during all routine dental procedures.
-Prepare patients for dental treatments, ensuring comfort and understanding of procedures.
-Properly disinfect and sanitize dental operatories in accordance with infection control protocols.
-Set up operatory with appropriate instruments and materials before each procedure.
-Update patient records, including medical history and clinical notes in Dentrix, as instructed by the dentist.
-Take dental radiographs and ensure proper positioning and exposure.
-Apply topical fluoride and perform toothbrush prophylaxis for pediatric patients as directed by the dentist.
-Take alginate impressions and fabricate dental models and custom trays.
-Prepare dental lab prescriptions per dentist’s instructions.
-Monitor and maintain inventory of supplies and materials in each operatory.
-Sterilize dental instruments and equipment following established protocols.
-Provide patient education regarding oral hygiene, post-operative care, and other relevant topics.
-Assist patients with completing and understanding dental consent forms.
-Support reception duties on an as-needed basis, including patient check-in/out and scheduling.
-Record and monitor vital signs as needed for clinical evaluations.
Qualifications:
-Dental Assistant Certification (preferred)
-Prior experience working in a dental office or clinical setting (preferred)
-Proficiency in Dentrix or similar dental software
-Knowledge of dental radiography and infection control standards
-Strong communication and patient service skills
-Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment
Benefits:
-Comprehensive Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
-401(k) Retirement Plan
-Paid Time Off: 2 weeks annually
-Paid Sick Leave: 7 days annually
-11 Paid Federal Holidays
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