The Dental Assistant provides support to the Dentist in the care and treatment of dental patients under the supervision of the Site Dental Coordinator. Performs clinical tasks as assigned under general supervision of a licensed dentist. Maintains a clean and organized work environment. Ensures appropriate and professional behavior toward all patients, providers, and staff. Participates in a team-based approach. Participates in activities related to Quality Improvement.
Essential Job Duties
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Assists the dentist chair-side in all clinical procedures, providing proper suctioning technique, passing instruments, and mixing materials as needed. Performs various assigned lab duties. Prepares patient for treatment and sets-up trays per procedure in compliance with individual provider's requests.
Responsible for the accuracy, clarity, and proper completion of dental charting. Documents relevant communications with patient into a detailed clinical or communication note. Prints treatment plans and effectively communicates treatment with the patient and reception staff. Provides thorough dental education to patients. Takes and records patients’ vitals (blood pressure, height, weight, etc.) at every visit. At the dentist’s requests takes and records other relevant vitals. Ensures the proper completion of all EHR requirements within each visit.
Takes diagnostic quality digital and conventional radiographs as assigned by the Staff Dentist, demonstrating proper radiographic techniques and radiation protection.
Follows Dental Infection Control Program and other regulatory policies and procedures. Coordinates efforts with coworkers to complete operatory set-up, equipment cleaning, sterilization of instruments, and disinfection of operatory. Restocks supplies in operatory and storage room. Informs the individual in charge of ordering of any supplies needed.
Completes and submits Medicaid prior authorizations. Maintains detailed spreadsheets logging and tracking prior authorizations and referrals.
Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Marginal Job Duties
Coordinates work efforts with co-workers to maintain patient flow throughout the office. Thoroughly communicates with patients, coworkers, providers, and leadership staff.
Maintains an organized work environment.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Job Specifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
Licensure: State of Michigan Radiology Certification required within 60 days of employment.
Skills: Knowledge of dental terminology, chair-side techniques, and dental insurances/prior authorizations. Organized and detailed. Effective communication skills. Efficient typing and computer skills. Able to work independently and as a team member. Flexible in day-to-day duties and responsibilities. Protects patients’ rights by maintaining confidentiality (HIPAA) of personal and financial information.
Interpersonal skills: Ability to communicate effectively with, and relate to, a diverse population in a professional manner. Capable of taking initiative in day-to-day responsibilities. Excellent verbal and written skills.
Physical Effort: Must be able to sit, stand, and or walk for an entire workday. Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull, and or twist while holding up to 25 lbs. frequently.
Hours of Work: Full time; Flexible and varied. Extended hours may be required. Consistent attendance is required for this position. Telecommuting is not an option for this position.
Travel: Travel may be required to various GLBHC sites. Reimbursement consistent with GLBHC’s policy.
Preferred Job Specifications
Education: Certificate of completion from an accredited dental assisting program preferred.
Experience: Two (2) years of dental assisting experience is preferred.
Skills: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
GLBHC is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and or local laws.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Health Care Provider
Industries
Hospitals and Health Care
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