Works under the direct supervision of the Dentist in providing care to pediatric patients undergoing dental treatment including prophylaxis (supra-gingival) cleaning. Responsible for preparing for procedures, providing supplies and instruments during procedures, and post-procedure clean-up. Performs the expanded duty functions as permitted by the Florida Board of Dentistry. Leads the dental assistants to ensure best possible quality of care for each patient.
Job Specific Duties
Collaborates with the Dental Administrators and staff to meet NCHS needs. Supports departmental goals and NCHS strategic plan.
Applies knowledge of growth and development in patient interactions and treatment.
Identifies opportunities to improve processes and assists Leader with projects to enhance workflow utilizing Lean methodologies and tools.
Works in conjunction with dental leaders to coordinate dental assistant’s schedules.
Applies expertise with appropriate approaches to small children, children with autism, children confined to wheelchairs, and children with developmental delay.
Ensures patient safety with papoose (when necessary) for patients unable to sit for procedures unassisted.
Promotes/practices cost containment and maintaining fiscal performance by ensuring appropriate supplies and par levels are maintained.
Checks all equipment for proper function and cleanliness. Notifies designated employee of any equipment not operating properly and needing repair.
Promotes a safe "error free" working environment by consistently performing infection prevention assessments and maintains clinical area in compliance with regulatory standards.
Actively participates in the performance review process through chart reviews and validating timeliness of charting and all requirements are met.
Executes clear & concise education information for parents/patients. Provides parents with post- treatment, sedation & OR verbal instructions, as well as written information when indicated.
Maintains and sterilizes dental instruments.
Provides for patient safety. Greets parents and assists patients to operatory, checking with parent and reading armband to identify scheduled patient before beginning any procedure.
Reviews, maintains, and documents patient information in the computer system thoroughly, accurately, and in a timely manner. Obtains consent from parents when indicated.
Takes X-rays to assure the highest degree of diagnostic information with the least amount of exposure. Follows hospital and departmental infection control policies.
Works directly with the pediatric dental attending, residents, and other specialists in the dental clinic and operating room.
Performs designated expanded duty functions permitted by the Florida Board of Dentistry. Provides assistance with behavior, monitors patient with nitrous oxide, and never leaves them unattended.
Minimum Job Requirements
Graduate of an accredited school of Dental Assisting
CPR - American Heart Association AED - maintain active and in good standing throughout employment
Expanded Duties Cert - maintain active and in good standing throughout employment
Nitrous Oxide Certification - maintain active and in good standing throughout employment
3-5 years Highly trained Expanded Duties Dental Assistant experience
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Sedation course preferred.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Strong customer service, problem solving, critical thinking, time management, and conflict resolution skills.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to demonstrate evidence of clinical expertise and quality skills as an expanded duties assistant.
Able to relate cooperatively and constructively with patients, families, and co-workers.
Ability to interpret, adapt, and react calmly under stressful conditions.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Able to apply knowledge of growth and development in patient and customer interactions and treatments.
