Requirements

• Ability to effectively utilize dental technology
• Proficient in dental health maintenance and infection control
• Ability to multi-task
• Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures
• Ability to accurately utilize electronic dental record and practice management software
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to maintain attention to detail
• An independent worker; ability to work with limited supervision
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Ability to maintain a cooperative working relationship with other staff members
• Above average customer service skills; ability to tactfully handle difficult customer service situations; ability to deal courteously and effectively with a variety of people
• Equipment, Machinery, Tools and Vehicles Used: General office and dental equipment; computers
• Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, and Dentech Scheduling software

Responsibilities

• Prepares treatment room for patient by adhering to prescribed procedures and protocols.
• Prepares patient for dental hygiene treatment by welcoming, soothing, seating, and draping patient.
• Provides information to patients by answering questions and requests.
• Maintains instrumentation for dental hygiene treatment by sharpening, sterilizing, and selecting instruments.
• Selects materials and equipment for dental hygiene visit by evaluating patient's oral health.
• Completes dental prophylaxis/periodontal by cleaning deposits and stains from teeth and from beneath gum margins.
• Detects disease by completing oral cancer screening; feeling and visually examining gums; using probes to locate periodontal disease and to assess levels of recession; exposing and developing radiographic studies.
• Arrests dental decay by applying fluorides and other cavity- preventing agents.
• Helps dentist manage dental and medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, emergency drugs and oxygen supply, and directory of emergency numbers.
• Educates patients by giving oral hygiene and plaque control instructions and postoperative instructions; providing reminders of time of next dental hygiene visit.
• Documents dental hygiene services by recording vital signs and medical and dental histories; charting in patient records.
• Maintains patient confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.
• Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Protects patients and employees by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols.
• Educates patient on potential dental treatment that may be needed by doctor.
• Ensures operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
• Maintains dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
• Conserves dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Attends and contributes to daily huddle and staff meetings.
• Encourages patient referrals.
• Adheres to office protocol, policies, and procedures.
• Maintains a safe work environment and operates within OSHA/MIOSHA guidelines;
• Other duties as assigned.