POSITION DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Dental Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Dental Health Services

LOCATION: 1575 Blue Hill Avenue, Boston, MA

REPORTS TO: Dental Director

TYPE: Full or Part time

SALARY: $23 - $27 per hour

Summary:

Under general supervision of the Senior Dentist, the Dental Assistant provides assistance during dental procedures, and performs office/clerical support such as handling and keeping of records, assisting the dentist, taking developing and mounting radiographs, and dental health education.

Responsibilities

1. 75% Direct Patient Services 

• Prepares patient for dental treatment by seating patient in chair and providing an explanation of the procedures to be performed. 
• Drapes patient with protective linens and sets up instrument tray containing dental instruments, suction, gauze and other required supplies. 
• At the chair side, assists dentist during procedure by passing instruments, adjusting light on dental site, suctioning fluids and dental particles. May take and develop dental x-rays. 
• Assists patient with cleanup following procedure, clears work site of instruments, soiled linens and other materials following proper sterilization procedures and protocols, and prepares for next patient. 
• A registered Dental assistant will also polish teeth and take master impressions. 
• May assist laboratory technician in the construction of dental prosthesis and other dental models prepared for patient. 
• Maintains and expands current level of dental assistant skill and knowledge by periodically attending continuing education programs. 
• Assist Dentist or Hygienist with School-based screenings.

2. 25 % Administrative Duties

• Greeting and scheduling appointments for the patients. 
• Order office supplies when necessary. 
• Tracks supplies as needed. 
• Maintains records of procedures performed by dentist. 
• Assist with the billing process for the patients.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

A successful completion of a certified Dental Assistant Program at an accredited institution,

 High School education and/ or its equivalency or other specialized training beyond high school is required. 

Must possess the ability to make and keep dental charts and records;

Ability to understand written or oral instructions; and ability to work with a variety of personnel, patients and community groups.