Christ Community Health Services·Memphis, Tennessee
Provides comprehensive chairside support to dentists and hygienists while performing essential administrative and clerical functions. Additionally, the role provides language translation for patients to ensure clear communication and access to care.
The Registered Dental Assistant provides comprehensive chairside support to a licensed dentist and/or hygienist, facilitating efficient delivery of high-quality patient care. In addition to clinical responsibilities, this role performs essential administrative and clerical functions to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the dental clinic. Assists with language translation for patients as needed to ensure clear, accurate communication and enhance access to care.
1.
Performs coronal polishing procedures and mechanically polishes restorative surfaces in accordance with established clinical guidelines.
2.
Places and removes provisional (temporary) restorations as directed by the supervising dentist.
3.
Monitors patient status and comfort levels during the administration of nitrous oxide sedation, ensuring patient safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
4.
Applies pit and fissure sealants to prevent dental caries, following evidence-based clinical protocols.
If no supervisory duties, leave blank.
High school diploma plus Registered Dental Assistant Program along with Expanded Functions education.
Bilingual with one to two years experience performing fundamental and expanded duties of a registered dental assistant as outlined by the Tennessee State Board of Dentistry; experience completing dental radiographs and alginate impressions; and experience performing clerical duties associated with a dental office.
Registered to practice as an expanded function Dental Assistant as stipulated by the Laws and Administrative Rules of the Tennessee State Board of Dentistry. CPR Certification is required.
Level 1 – Requires some concentration and normal attention. Generally, once the job is learned, the tasks can be performed more or less automatically.
Level 2 – Requires high periods of concentration intermittently and normal attention. Generally, even once the job is learned, tasks will require normal attention to deal with recurring variables.
Level 3 – Requires a high level of concentration and high level of attention intermittently. Generally, the approach to tasks may be consistent, but the number of steps required and/or the number of variables involved creates the possibility of errors unless the incumbent pays close attention.
Activity: Approximate % of Time
Sitting: 30%
May sit while assisting dentist, working the front desk, or working on computer
Standing: 30%
Assisting the dentist, sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays, pulling files
Walking: 40%
Greeting patients, taking x-rays, getting supplies
100%
15%
30 lbs.
Types of objects the incumbent is required to lift/pull/push. Patients in wheelchairs, boxes of supplies, moving the patient chair
Machines and Equipment Used: Machines, Equipment, Tools
Approximate % of Time
Degree of Hand: Eye Coordination Required
1. Dental Chairs
50%
2. Dental x-ray machine
50%
3. Computers
50%
4. Dental instruments
50%
5. Autoclave
50%
6. Processor
50%
Approximate percentage of time incumbent spends in “on-the-job” travel, excluding commuting to regular work location: 25% travel between various work sites
Exposure to fumes from chemicals (developer fixer); intense light under the dental light; exposure to varying weather conditions when traveling between worksites; exposure to contagious and infectious disease; possible burns from the autoclave.
Market context
In Tennessee, dental roles often draw steady demand from practices serving both urban and rural communities, where access and patient volume can vary by location. These positions can be competitive because employers may prioritize licensure, reliable transportation, and candidates who can work independently; the listed requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time. Before applying, confirm your state license status and clean driving record, and review the travel-related benefits carefully.