Non-Profit Dental Assistant

Title: Dental Assistant

Reports to: Dental Clinic Manager

Department: Dental and Wellness Clinic

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; Full Time

*This position does not have remote capabilities

*Candidate must be flexible to work occasional weekend or evenings hours to be considered

The Dental Assistant supports the delivery of high-quality dental care by assisting HEP volunteer dentists during examinations and procedures, preparing treatment rooms, maintaining equipment and supplies, and ensuring a positive patient experience. The Dental Assistant plays a key role in promoting efficient dental clinic operations while providing compassionate care to patients.

PRINCIPAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare exam rooms, instruments, and materials for patient appointments.
• Assist the volunteer dentists during examinations, procedures, and treatments.
• Sterilize and disinfect dental instruments and equipment following infection control standards and clinic protocols.
• Assist with dental impressions, temporary restorations, sealants, fluoride treatments, and other procedures as permitted by certification and state regulations.
• Monitor and document patient information, treatment plans, and clinical notes as directed.
• Utilize Dentrix software to document clinical notes, update and review medical and dental histories, review patient charts, create treatment plans, and prepare consent forms.
• Obtain consent and provide pre- and post-operative instructions to patients for all dental procedures.
• Fill out prescription forms and specialist referrals and follow procedures for each.
• Explain procedures, oral hygiene instructions, and post-treatment care to patients.
• Ensure patient comfort before, during, and after treatment.
• Address patient questions and concerns in a professional and compassionate manner.
• Maintain accurate patient records and documentation.
• Assist with appointment scheduling, patient check-in, and check-out processes when needed.
• Maintain inventory of dental supplies and notify management when supplies need replenishment.
• Support clinic outreach events and special programs as assigned.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and protect sensitive information.
• Ensure compliance with clinic policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in quality improvement activities, training, and staff meetings.
• Review HEP Express when necessary to obtain information needed to support patient care and treatment planning.
• Ensure all exam rooms, laboratory and back offices are clean, stocked, and in working order
• Expose, process, and document diagnostic radiographs to assist the dentist in evaluating and diagnosing patient conditions.
• Ensure compliance and follow all safety measures with infection control and Bio-Waste per OSHA/CDC/HEP protocols.
• Educate patients on appropriate hygiene home care procedures to maintain good oral health.
• Follow guidelines as stated under sovereign immunity for the Florida Department of Health.
• Ensure accurate operation of dental equipment by completing preventative maintenance requirements, following manufacturer’s instructions, and troubleshooting malfunctions.
• Participate in daily huddles and scheduled staff meetings.
• All other duties assigned by the Dental Office Manager.

EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• High School diploma or GED.
• Must have either EFDA or CDA current certification.
• Current Dental Radiological Health and Safety Certificate.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, infection control practices, and patient care standards.
• Experience working in a community health center, nonprofit clinic, public health setting, or dental practice is preferred.
• Sensitivity to the cultural diversity of clients to successfully work with diverse racial, ethnic, and economic groups.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365.
• Prior working knowledge of Dentrix/Dexis. Preferred.
• Ability to work independently as well as a team.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
• Ability to multi-task with ease.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Superior attention to detail a MUST.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Bilingual in Spanish a plus but not required for position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds with ease; Anything over 35 pounds requires a team lift.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to handle dental instruments and equipment.
• Must be able to successfully pass a Level 1 background, drug and alcohol screenings.

The above declarations are not intended to be an “all-inclusive” list of duties and responsibilities of the job described, nor are they intended to be such a listing of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Rather, they are intended only to describe the general nature of the job and be a reasonable representation of its activities.

HEP is a Drug Free Workplace and Equal Opportunity Employer.  HEP does not discriminate against any class of protected persons covered by applicable law in its hiring and/or advancement opportunities.  HEP encourages people of all minority statuses to apply.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Bereavement leave
• Commuter assistance
• Continuing education credits
• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flextime
• Food provided
• Free parking
• Health insurance
• License reimbursement
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Mileage reimbursement
• On-the-job training
• Paid jury duty
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Prescription drug insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Smoking cessation program
• Uniform allowance
• Vision insurance
• Wellness program

Work Location: In person