Dental Assistant

PHMC Care Clinic
Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA

PHMC is proud to be a leader in public health. PHMC requires that all employees are fully vaccinated with the Covid-19 vaccine before the first day of employment.

Summary Job Description:

Under the supervision of a Dentist, the Dental Assistant supports the dentist in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care for dental assistants.

Responsibilities:

• Prepares and maintains dental instruments, supplies and equipment
• Prepares the operatory for the patient visit
• Seats patient in chair and explains procedures to be performed
• Collects and records patient health histories
• Drapes patient with protective linens; sets up instrument tray with required supplies
• Takes radiographs using conventional or digital technology and following radiation safety precautions
• Assists with dental charting
• Assists in the prevention and management of dental emergencies
• Manages the patient during dental procedures
• Provides active chairside assistance; transfers instruments as appropriate for four-handed dentistry
• Places and contours amalgam and other restorative materials
• Performs coronal polishing
• Takes impressions for study casts, athletic mouth guards, and custom trays
• Performs laboratory procedures, including the pouring and trimming of models; polishing dental prosthetics, and making vac-u-press forms
• At the conclusion of the procedure, follows proper infection control protocols and prepares the operatory for the next patient
• Helps manage the dental office’s infection control plan to meet all regulatory requirements
• Monitors and documents the flow of laboratory cases; maintains lab facility
• Performs, monitors, and records all sterilization activities
• Maintains proper aseptic techniques necessary with dental equipment; maintains and properly sterilizes instruments
• Routinely cleans, disinfects, and restocks operatories
• Maintains the inventory of supplies and reorders as necessary
• Tracks and verifies invoices
• Performs duties within the dental program as assigned

Skills:

• Ability to set up and prepare dental equipment and instrumentation in accordance with established regulations and guidelines
• Ability to manage the dental office infection control plan to meet regulatory requirements
• Maintains and expands current level of dental assistant skill and knowledge by periodically attending continuing education programs

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years as a dental assistant. Experience in a community health environment serving uninsured or underinsured patients is preferred

Education:

• High school diploma or GED
• CPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) certification
• National DANB Radiation and Safety exam Certificate of Completion
• Certification in Dental Assisting

Work involves considerable exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, unpleasant odors and/or loud noises. Moderate physical activity. Requires handling average-weight objects up to 15-20 pounds, assisting with patients and standing and/or walking for most of the day. Will work with blood or blood-borne pathogens and will require OSHA training. Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment. Commensurate with education and experience. Grade 14.

High School or better.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities