Dental Assistant - Endodontics

Permanent Dental Assistant Job

Paradise Valley, AZ

Job Description

• Daily participation on the Morning Huddle with front staff and doctor (if available). The morning huddle starts 15 minutes prior to the first patient's appointment time for that specific day. Daily patient reviews can take place at the end of t he day ( with doctor) for the following day.
• Take digital dental diagnostic radiogrpahs, Pano and CBCT x-rays as needed.
• Prepare patient operatories, sterilize and disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare all necessary materials required for patient treatment. 
• Assist endodontist (dentist) during procedure and anticipate the needs and requirements of endodontist during procedure. Work quickly and efficiently utilizing the assistant microscope oculars.
• Cleaning - The clinical area is required to be compliant with OSHA regulations. All instruments and tools sterilized and cleaned before and after patient use in the operatory. Rooms need to be "turned" as quickly as possible to maximize doctor's time and keep patients from waiting unnecessarily. 
• Record treatment information in patient records in TDO software. Charts are to be completed each day prior to dental assistant leaving for the day. Accuracy of diagnostic a nd multi -tooth pages must be verified with the doctor on each patient.
• Review chart for recorded medical and dental histories on all patients. Verify information and report any unusual or conflicting information to doctor prior to doctor seeing patient.
• Take vital signs - blood pressure, temp (as necessary), pulse on all patients prior to treatment. If patient requires medication prior to endodontic treatment - verify drug, quantity and time taken. Note this information in chart AND report to doctor.
• Know and practice your role in the event of medical or dental office emergency. Assist endodontist in management of these situations.
• Provide and review with the patient any postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist, including instructing patients in oral hygiene.
• Order, monitor and maintain dental supplies and equipment inventory in a prescribed manner according to company policies. All orders to be approved by Operations Manager prior t o placin g the order.
• See to it that all equipment used in the clinic is maintained in working order. Troubleshoot and notify Operations Manager to obtain approval if any equipment needs to be repaired in house or sent out for repair. Become familiar with the operating manuals for all equipment in the clinic.
• Become proficient in the use of existing photographic equipment for record keeping during endodontic procedures as well as for patient case workups, presentations and treatment planning.
• Annual participation in continuing education opportunities (classes, conferences, etc) as directed by management.
• Maintain positive relationships with other staff members - understand co-worker's DISC profile and interact with each member accordingly.