PHMC serves as both a direct service provider to individuals, families, and communities across the region and as an intermediary agent - managing large-scale contracts, government and philanthropic partnerships, and multidisciplinary initiatives that require operational sophistication, strategic leadership, and deep mission alignment.
Job Description
Under the supervision of a Dentist, the Dental Assistant supports the dentist in the provision of high-quality care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care for dental assistants.
Responsibilities
• Prepares and maintains dental instruments, supplies, and equipment. • Prepares the operatory for the patient visit. • Seats the patient in a chair and explains procedures to be performed. • Collects and records patient health histories. • Drapes patient with protective linens; sets up instrument tray with required supplies. • Prepares dental materials, cements, amalgams, composites, impression materials, etc. • Takes radiographs using conventional or digital technology and follows radiation safety precautions. • Assists with dental charting. • Assists in the prevention and management of dental emergencies. • Manages the patient during dental procedures. • Provides active chairside assistance; transfers instruments as appropriate for four-handed dentistry. • Place and contour amalgam and other restorative materials. • Perform coronal polishing. • Perform fluoride treatments, including fluoride varnish. • Takes impressions for study casts, athletic mouth guards, and a custom tray. • Performs laboratory procedures, including the pouring and trimming of models; polishing dental prosthetics, and making vac-u-press forms. • At the conclusion of the procedure, follow proper infection control protocols and prepare the operatory for the next patient. • Help manage the dental office's infection control plan to meet all regulatory requirements. • Monitors and documents the flow of laboratory cases; maintains the lab facility. • Performs, monitors, and records all sterilization activities. • Maintains proper aseptic techniques necessary with dental equipment; maintains and properly sterilizes instruments. • Routinely cleans, disinfects, and restocks operatories. • Helps manage patient flow. • Maintains the inventory of supplies and reorders as necessary. • Track and verify invoices. • Translate dental treatment, after care, and answer questions in English and Spanish from doctor to patient.
Skills
• Ability to set up and prepare dental equipment and instrumentation in accordance with established regulations and guidelines. • Ability to manage the dental office infection control plan to meet regulatory requirements. • Maintains and expands the current level of dental assistant skill and knowledge by periodically attending continuing education programs. • Ability to effectively communicate, translate, read, and write in Spanish required.
Experience
• Minimum of 2 years as a dental assistant. • Spanish language proficiency required. • Experience in a community health environment serving uninsured or underinsured patients is preferred.
Education
• High school diploma or GED. • CPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) certification required. • National DANB Radiation and Safety exam Certificate of Completion is required. • Certification in Dental Assisting is required.
PHMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an E-Verify Employer