Dental Assistant I

Working title: Dental Assistant

Classification title: Dental Assistants

Program: Dental Clinic

Reports to:   Dental Clinic Program Manager

FLSA status: Non Exempt, Hourly; PRN status is not benefits eligible

Wage Range: $18.15 to $25.35 hourly; depending on number of years of transferrable experience and internal equity

Organizational Overview

Serving the Yellowstone County community and south-central Montana for nearly 50 years, RiverStone Health is an essential provider of personal and public health services. Health, Education, Leadership and Protection – HELP is what we do. From medical, dental and behavioral healthcare; home care and hospice; public health services like immunizations, WIC, health promotion and restaurant inspections; and educating the next generation of health professionals, our expertise spans all ages and stages of life.  Underlying principles of access, affordability, compassion and quality in all interactions, RiverStone Health improves life, health and safety for all of the communities we serve.

Program Overview: 

The RiverStone Health Dental Clinic is committed to making sure patients get the best possible care.  Our high-quality dental services improve the health of our community and are supplemented by dentists completing their dental residency.  The dental team works closely with the with RiverStone Health Clinic medical providers, since dental care has a significant impact on overall health.  The Dental Clinic cares for patients of all ages, including seeing children for their first trip to the dentist.  Team members are sensitive and understanding to individual needs and comfort levels. The dental team works with patients regardless of insurance coverage to provide check-ups, cleanings, sealants, x-rays, fillings and minor surgeries. 

Job Summary:

The Dental Assistant position performs clinical duties under the direction of a dentist.  Clinical duties include assist providers in chair-side procedures, prepare and set up instruments, materials and equipment, sterilize instruments and ensure infection control measures are utilized.   The position prepares patients for treatment, provides patients with comfort measures, education, and instructions for follow-up care procedures.  Schedules patients and manages patient flow, prepares and maintains patient charts, information, clinical progress notes and other dental records. 

Essential Functions/Major Duties and Responsibilities: 

A.   Dental Assistant Services %

• Assist dentists and hygienists in chair-side procedures by organizing and preparing necessary instruments and supplies for dental treatment. 

• Assist provider during procedures using 4-handed dentistry.

• Prepare and set up instruments, materials and equipment necessary for each procedure.

• Sterilize instruments and ensure infection control measures are utilized in the cleaning and routine maintenance of equipment and exam rooms.

• Schedule patients and manage patient flow.

• Perform routine reception work such as answering phones, taking messages, etc.

• Provide information regarding dental insurance claim processing as needed.

• Prepare and maintain patient charts and patient information handouts.

• Prepare and maintain clinical progress notes and other dental records.

• Provide patient education, counseling, and follow-up.

• Respond to patient questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.

• Collect and record patient health histories and vital information.

• Help to inform and comfort patients before, during and after dental treatment.

• Obtain and process appropriate radiographs.

• Advise and educate patients in oral hygiene and dental care.

• Follow up with patients regarding post-visit instructions.

• Utilize the requisite tools, systems, technology and equipment in the collection of patient data, records management and collection.

Non-Essential Functions/Other duties as assigned ≥5%

• Perform other duties as assigned in support of RiverStone's mission and goals.

Education and Experience: 

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Some experience as a dental assistant

• Any combination of experience and training which provide the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a Dental Assistant (CDA) through DANB.

Required Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Radiation Health & Safety (RHS) Certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

• CPR certification or successful completion within 90 days of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Ability to provide integrity, ingenuity, motivation and inventiveness to implement new skills and knowledge brought about by rapid changing information and technology.
• Knowledge in dental insurance claim processing.
• Ability to perform a variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time sensitive deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills to ensure efficiencies and quality customer service.
• Ability to maintain a calm and positive demeanor during difficult client interactions.
• Ability to display non-judgmental and empathetic listening skills.
• High degree of detail-oriented skill level.
• Knowledge and understanding of protected sensitive patient health information (HIPAA) and confidentiality.
• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain a positive work environment.
• Ability to perform job duties with integrity and innovation to ensure completion and a high level of quality.
• Ability to understand and adhere to required administrative policies and procedures.

Customer Service Excellence: 

• Doing things right the first time

• Making people feel welcome

• Showing respect for each customer

• Anticipating customer needs and concerns

• Keeping customers informed

• Helping and going the extra mile

• Responding quickly

• Protecting privacy and confidentiality

• Demonstrating proper telephone etiquette

• Taking responsibility for handling complaints

• Being professional

• Taking ownership of your attitude toward Service Excellence.

Supervision: 

• None

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in a clinic setting.

• Standing, bending, sitting and twisting the body is required to perform the essential functions of the job.

• The position is regularly exposed to biological pathogens and contagious diseases where Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and special precautions must be taken due to reduce exposure and mitigate risk.

• Create and maintain a safe/secure working environment by adhering to safety, security, and health requirements. Integrates injury, illness, and loss prevention into job activities by attending any necessary training and implementing best practices.

Freedom to Act & Decision Making:

• Supervision is readily available.

• Work is structured by public health regulations and established dental clinic practices.

• Decisions and actions directly affect the quality of services provided.

Communications & Networking:

• Work directly with other team members to provide quality customer service for patients and customers.

Budget & Resource Management: 

• N/A

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