Dentist

POSITION TITLE: DENTIST

FLSA: EXEMPT

Job Summary:

A Dentist is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing dental care for patients of all ages. They perform a wide range of dental procedures, including preventive, restorative, and emergency care, while ensuring a positive patient experience. The role involves maintaining patient records, educating patients on oral health, and adhering to health, safety, and infection control standards.. Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Supervise dental staff, conduct annual evaluations, and manage schedules.
• Complete administrative tasks per Suncoast CHC policies and maintain ongoing dental education per Florida and board requirements.
• Perform annual evaluations and maintain licensure and credentials.
• Ensure thorough documentation through supervision attestation and patient record countersignatures.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Evaluate patients' oral health, identify dental concerns, and create personalized treatment plans for children, adults, and special needs individuals.
• Perform essential dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride applications, referred to external specialist when needed.
• Address dental emergencies, including trauma, infections, and severe pain, with prompt and effective treatment.
• Guide patients on maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and proper diet, while emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being.
• Administer local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during procedures.
• Employ effective techniques to manage patient behavior, especially in children, anxious patients, and those with special needs, to ensure a positive and calm experience.

• 
  Work with dental hygienists, assistants, and other healthcare providers to deliver coordinated and comprehensive patient care.
• Contribute to public health initiatives and promote oral health within the community, particularly in underserved areas such as schools and clinics.
• Keep accurate and current patient records, including medical histories, treatment plans, progress notes, and follow-up care, while ensuring adherence to safety and infection control standards
• Mentor and guide dental support staff, including hygienists and assistants, ensuring that FQHC protocols are followed and high standards of patient care are maintained.
• Participate in quality improvement programs aimed at enhancing service delivery, patient satisfaction, and overall health outcomes within the center.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the centers.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Exceptional organizational abilities, attention to detail, and time management with proven deadline adherence.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, supervisory, and leadership skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, delegate effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software.
• Expertise in diagnosing and treating pediatric dental conditions, including preventive, restorative, and emergency care.
• Capable of explaining procedures and oral health practices to children and parents in a clear and understandable manner.
• Knowledge of sedation, nitrous oxide, and anesthesia for safe and comfortable treatment.
• Collaborative team player, working well with dental assistants, hygienists, and healthcare providers.
• Fine motor skills for accurate handling of instruments in pediatric cases.
• Quick decision-making in emergencies and complex dental situations.
• Strict adherence to safety, health, and infection control protocols.
• Must be able to effectively manage workflow and maintain high-quality standards in environments where staffing levels may be below ideal, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and collaborate with the team under pressure.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.

Education and Experience:

• DDS or DMD from an accredited dental school.
• Graduate of a CODA-accredited Pediatric Dentistry Program.
• Board Certified or Board Eligible by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
• Completion of an ADA-accredited Pediatric Dentistry residency.
• Florida Pediatric Conscious Sedation Permit (preferred).
• Eligible for hospital privileges.
• DEA certified.
• BLS, PALS certifications required; ACLS certification preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting and walking throughout the day.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.
• Strong manual dexterity for precise dental procedures, including handling small instruments in pediatric patients' mouths.
• Must be able to travel to various center locations as required.