What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at White Bird Clinic?
Agency Summary:
It takes a wide range of amazing people to achieve the mission of White Bird Clinic and to be successful in the work that we do. We provide compassionate, humanistic healthcare and supportive services to individuals in our community, so everyone receives the care they need.
Position Summary:
The Dental Assistant supports the dentist in providing high-quality patient care by performing a variety of clinical and administrative tasks. This role includes preparing patients for treatments, sterilizing instruments, preparing rooms, and assisting during dental procedures. The Dental Assistant also manages patient records and educates patients on oral hygiene practices.
Position Responsibilities
Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations by ensuring all necessary instruments and materials are sterilized and ready for use.
Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures, including taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays).
Provide patients with instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatments.
Manage patient records by documenting dental care services and updating treatment plans.
Ensure the comfort of patients by greeting them, answering questions, and providing reassurance during procedures.
Take and record patients' medical and dental histories and vital signs.
Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, such as brushing and flossing, to prevent dental problems.
Apply topical anesthetics to patients' gums before dental procedures.
Follow infection control protocols by disinfecting and maintaining dental instruments and equipment.
All other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent.
Completion of an accredited dental assisting program.
Current and valid certification as a Dental Assistant (CDA) from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) or equivalent Oregon state certification.
Current and valid certification in radiography, as required by Oregon regulations and requirements.
Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
Proficiency in dental practice management software and electronic health records (EHR).
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
Understanding of infection control and sterilization protocols to ensure a safe and clean clinical environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Associate degree or higher in dental assisting or a related field.
More than 2 years of experience working as a dental assistant in a clinical setting.
Certification in expanded functions (EFDA) or restorative functions (EFODA) where applicable.
Experience with advanced dental procedures, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry.
Proficiency in using dental practice management software.
Proficient in both English and Spanish.
Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and compliance to ensure patient privacy and confidentiality.
Key Competencies:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients and team members.
Proficiency in taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays) and other diagnostic procedures.
Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
Attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and patient documentation.
Ability to follow infection control protocols to maintain a safe and sterile environment.
Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and ensure smooth patient flow.
Equal Employment Opportunity
White Bird Clinic is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated workforce. White Bird Clinic hires and promotes people based on their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. White Bird Clinic will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't meet every one of the qualifications listed. We are interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. If you meet key qualifications for the job and believe you would be the best fit, we encourage you to apply. Please use your cover letter to explain how you will accomplish parts of the job for which you have less experience.
Compensation Details:
This is a non-exempt position with a target starting base compensation of $21 per hour paid on a bi-weekly basis.
Salary : $21