Registered Dental Assistant

SUMMARY
This position is full time, Monday - Friday and requires availability for all of our three locations; SW, NE and SE. Deadline for applications is Wednesday, September 16th. You will work directly under the direction of the practice owners and will primarily be responsible for preparing and assisting with dental procedures. You play a critical role in the success of our practice and team, all the while helping our patients by achieving the best results and improving their oral health.

You will greet and prepare patients before dental exams and procedures, answer patients’ questions or concerns, offer guidance and provide continual education on oral hygiene and care. Also, you will be required to maintain patient files, ensure that notes are maintained accurately, and book appointments and follow ups with the patients. You will also be responsible for cleaning, maintaining dental equipment, instruments, and the clinical area, and ensuring that necessary items are stocked.

JOB DUTIES:
PREPARATION
Turn on all units, wall switches, etc.

Check sterilization area and prepare instruments and tray setup for the day
Ensure all treatment rooms are ready, stocked, and cleaned
Review schedule to identify outstanding treatment, scheduling issues, and opportunities for same day treatment
Prepare your notes to review and discuss during morning meetings
Seat patients and review for proper set-up procedure before doctor enters the treatment room
ASSISTING
Assist the doctor for all procedures
Take CBCTs
Take impressions
Make temporary crowns
Assist with administration of nitrous oxide to patients
Assist the dentist in the management of medical or dental emergencies, taking photos, x-rays, and conducting preliminary tests to gather information for dentist to diagnose
Assess emergency situations; remain familiar with emergency protocols, utilize knowledge of First Aid, CPR etc.

CHARTING
Take and record medical and dental histories and other medical information including vital signs.

Chart all patients and record the date, treatment/service rendered, and information for upcoming visits/appointments
Make sure the patient’s chart is completed and ensure that necessary photos and x-rays are uploaded prior to dismissing the patient
Include in the patient’s chart the next appointment to be scheduled, the treatment to be provided and the time units needed
Complete chart notes and lab slips daily and sign them when finished
PATIENT MANAGEMENT
Conduct daily chart audits to review medical history, outstanding treatment, management of appliances or lab work
Review pre- and post-op instructions prescribed by the doctor
Educate patients on value and importance of the proposed treatment plan prescribed by the doctor
Escort the patient to the front desk and transfer to the next team member, discuss the treatment performed today, any future treatment recommendations, and appointments needed as well as any pertinent financial information
STERILIZATION
Always follow sterilization guidelines for all procedures
Appropriate PPE must be worn at all times during treatment and clean-up
Responsible for the sterilization of instruments and set-up of trays
Conduct spore/biological indicator tests
Maintain sterilization area, logs, and records
Weekly maintenance trap changing
Assist in maintaining emergency drug kits
EQUIPMENT
Maintain all handpieces and attachments
Monitor light curing units for adequate light intensity
Order, monitor, and stock dental supplies and equipment (including oxygen) and keep a running inventory of equipment and supplies
Clean and properly maintain appliances and equipment
Coordinate with the doctor, manager, and dental supply service representative for regular maintenance of all equipment
REQUIREMENTS
Successful completion of a one-year Dental Assistant Program from a college or accredited dental assistant training program
Valid member of the Alberta Dental Assistants Association
X-ray certification
Certified in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to listen and converse with tact and discretion with patients, while emphasizing the ability to educate, build rapport and enhance trust
Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to make notes in patient charts, ensuring the information is correct, accurate and comprehensive
Strong computer skills including the ability to use Microsoft Office, email, spreadsheets, and EndoVision and TDO (The Digital Office)
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with patients and team
Ability to calm and reassure patients facing uncomfortable or painful procedures
Ability to quickly write detailed information in a readable, condensed form
Ability to be consistently punctual and reliable in attendance
Ability to work safely and follow the established office health and safety protocols and procedures
Ability to juggle multiple tasks, change priorities and be interrupted in order to attend to the demands of the clinic and maintain patient care
Ability to consistently respond to the needs of the patient, team, and practitioner
WORK CONDITIONS
May be exposed to fumes, gases, chemicals, infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including exposure to blood-borne pathogens including AIDS and hepatitis B viruses
Exposed to high frequency sounds from high-speed handpieces
Interaction with other employees, management, and the public at large
Overtime may be required
Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals, and medical equipment/instruments
Long periods of standing and sitting may be required
Lifting or moving up to 30 lbs. may be required
Benefits:
Company events
Extended health care
On-site parking
Work Location: In person