Job Summary:
The Licensed Dental Assistant Lead is responsible for aiding in the oversight of Dental Assistants, Dental Assistant Apprentices, and Sterilization Technicians. The DA Lead also provides exceptional chair-side dental assistance to ODHC patients in a professional and patient-focused manner. Additionally, the DAL is responsible for administrative tasks to ensure the dental department is running efficiently. The DAL can expect to spend up to 75% of their week chairside and a minimum of 25% of their week completing administrative responsibilities.
Patient Care
- Performs all dental assistant procedures and duties allowable under Minnesota State Law
- Assist in capturing radiographic images, child prophylaxis, and other treatments for unlicensed and limited licensed DAs and DAAs
- Anticipate needs for dental procedures: prepare dental materials and instruments
- Seat patients, perform preliminary evaluation of their health history and chief complaints
- Educate patients on dental procedures being performed, after care instructions, proper oral hygiene and home care, healthy eating and lifestyle habits
- Accurate and timely documentation into patient’s electronic health record
- Answer and/or return patient phone calls when appropriate
Infection Control and Sterilization
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Assist in managing the dental clinic binders and infection control plan to meet OSHA, CDC and ADA standards
- Set up and tear down dental operatories before and after each patient using standard processes
- Prepare and maintain dental instruments using best practice sterilization/disinfection techniques
- Understand and utilize all appropriate PPE
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Perform safe work practices to protect the health and safety of employees and patients per OSHA
Clinic Operations
- Assist in inventory management and approve and code inventory invoices
- Maintain O2 and N2O tanks
- Maintain dental equipment, ensure clinical equipment compliance records are up to date, assist in coordinating repairs when needed
- Process dental referrals to ensure continuity of care
Administrative/Leadership Responsibilities
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Mentor and train dental support staff
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Maintain status as a “Coach” for the Dental Assistant Apprenticeship Program
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Participate in interviews and onboarding activities
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Help to manage Dental Assistant’s schedules to ensure adequate coverage at all dental locations
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Support implementation of dental leadership initiatives with regard to staff training, work flows, patient care, workplace culture, etc.
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Oversee day-to-day dental operations tasks at primary work location
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Qualifications:
- Holds a current registration/license in Minnesota as a dental assistant.
- High school diploma or GED
- 4 years of experience in a dental office
- CPR Certification
- Ability to be the lead and guide staff in accordance to clinic policies and procedures.
- Confidence, professional judgement, and grace under pressure.
- Bilingual skills are a plus
Other Requirements:
Some travel may be expected. Travel expenses will be reimbursed according to ODHC’s travel policy. Physical ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Repetitive use of fingers, hands, and wrists. Complete range of motion, fine motor skills, and tactile sense of both hands. Able to lift 25 pounds. This document is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of all duties, skills, and responsibilities required and does not limit the assignment of additional duties at the discretion of leadership. All employees will work to promote ODHC’s mission, vision, and values.