Hybrid Dental Assistant at MEDICAL ASSOCIATES PLUS

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dental Assistant supports the delivery of quality dental care by assisting the dentist during clinical procedures, maintaining a safe and sterile environment, and providing oral health education to patients and the community. This role plays a vital part in improving patient outcomes and supports the mission of Medical Associates Plus and the Neighborhood Improvement Project, Inc.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Support

• Assist the dentist chairside during clinical procedures, ensuring efficient workflow and patient comfort.
• Prepare and maintain dental instruments, supplies, and equipment according to infection control protocols.
• Record patient health histories accurately and ensure documentation is complete.
• Provide procedural support including instrument transfer, isolation techniques, and mixing/preparing dental materials (e.g., cements, composites, impression materials).
• Perform dental charting under the supervision of the dentist.
• Assist in the prevention and management of dental medical emergencies.
• Support inventory control and maintain adequate stock of supplies and instruments.

Infection Control and Safety

• Implement and monitor infection control protocols that comply with OSHA, CDC, and ADA standards.
• Sterilize, disinfect, and circulate instruments appropriately.
• Disinfect treatment rooms between patients and maintain cleanliness of dental operator areas.

Patient and Community Education

• Provide patients with personalized oral hygiene instructions and post-procedure care guide.
• Participate in community outreach initiatives, including oral health education presentations and staffing health fair booths.

Operational and Organizational Support

• Collaborate in resource planning and ensure efficient management of supplies and materials.
• Participate in continuous quality improvement and performance enhancement initiatives.
• Support the overall goals and mission of the Neighborhood Improvement Project, Inc.

Other Duties

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the supervising dentist or management team.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Completion of an accredited Dental Assisting program by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association (ADA).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Experience

• 0–5 years of experience in a general dentistry practice preferred.
• Experience in community health or FQHC setting is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of dental procedures, equipment, and terminology.
• Proficiency in electronic dental records and computer literacy (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a diverse patient population.
• Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and complying with HIPAA regulations.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Excellent visual acuity required.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, bend, reach, and lift/move equipment or materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to use hands and fingers for instrument handling and dexterity tasks.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in a dental clinic environment with standard equipment and instruments.
• Regular exposure to communicable diseases, bloodborne pathogens, and bodily fluids.
• Exposure to chemical disinfectants, sharps, low-level radiation, and unpleasant odors.
• Frequent interaction with patients who may be experiencing pain, anxiety, or behavioral issues.
• Moderate physical activity required, including frequent standing, walking, and occasional lifting.
• May work in a windowless environment with moderate noise from patients, equipment, and staff.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Medical Associates Plus reserves the right to assign work duties, hours, and locations as necessary.

This job description outlines essential job functions and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities or working conditions.