Dental Assistant

Position summary

The Dental Assistant at Community Health Center of Fort Dodge, Inc. (CHCFD) plays a crucial role in supporting our dental team by assisting dentists during examinations and treatments, preparing patients for procedures, maintaining a sterile and organized environment, and ensuring a positive patient experience. This position requires a commitment to the mission of providing high-quality dental care to underserved populations in a community health setting.

Key responsibilities

• Patient
• Care and
• Assistance:
• Prepare and seat patients for dental procedures, ensuring comfort and addressing any patient concerns.
• Assist the dentist during dental procedures, including passing instruments, holding suction devices, and taking dental impressions.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices and postoperative care.
• Clinical
• Support:
• Prepare treatment rooms by sterilizing and setting up instruments, equipment, and materials.
• Perform tasks such as taking dental X-rays, applying topical anesthetics, and removing sutures as directed by the dentist.
• Manage infection control by following OSHA guidelines and maintaining a clean and safe working environment.
• Record
• Keeping and
• Documentation:
• Accurately document patient information, treatment plans, and procedures in the Epic EHR system.
• Maintain patient records, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• Lab and
• Equipment
• Management:
• Handle in-house lab duties, including processing impressions, fabricating temporary crowns, and pouring models.
• Monitor and maintain dental supplies and equipment, ordering replacements as necessary.
• Collaboration and
• Communication:
• Work closely with the dental team to coordinate patient care and ensure efficient workflow.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare providers within CHCFD.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and continuing education opportunities.
• Administrative
• Duties:
• Assist with patient scheduling, billing, and insurance verification as needed.
• Ensure all necessary forms and consent documents are completed and filed appropriately.
• Handle other duties as assigned by the Dental Director or supervising dentist.

Qualifications

Physical requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods, bend, and reach during dental procedures.
• Manual dexterity for handling dental instruments and equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Work environment

• Work is performed in a clinical environment with exposure to potential hazards such as radiation, infectious diseases, and chemicals.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and must be worn in accordance with OSHA regulations.

Compensation and benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

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Community Health Center of Fort Dodge, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and providing high-quality, compassionate care to our community.