Description
The Dental Assistant reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Greets and prepares patients for dental examinations and treatments.
- Assists the dentists during procedures by handing instruments, suctioning, and performing basic dental tasks.
- Takes dental x-rays and manages radiation safety protocols.
- Educates patients on post-operative care, proper oral hygiene techniques, and preventive habits.
- Sterilizes and prepares dental instruments and equipment.
- Maintains inventory of dental supplies and order as necessary.
- Records patient medical history and treatment plans in electronic format.
- Performs basic laboratory tasks, such as making impressions and dental casts
- Participates with other team members in patient care planning through verbal and written communications.
- Provides clear, concise patient care documentation as per departmental standards.
Administration of Work
- Provides direct patient care for an established five days per week in an outpatient setting, and inpatient setting as needed.
- Ensure the dental clinic complies with health and safety regulations.
- Designs and implement appropriate treatment plans with the dentists and other dental professionals to provide quality patient care.
- Participates in patient discharge and home care planning to facilitate the continuity of patient care.
- Participates in ongoing training and professional development.
- Completes all related medical documentation in a timely and accurate manner and in accordance with established policies and standards.
Communications/Relationships
- Promotes and maintains professional working relationship with interdisciplinary team.
- Maintains/promotes open communication with interdisciplinary team.
- Attends/contributes to monthly departmental and discipline-specific service meetings.
Organizational Expectations
- Adheres to the Hospital and departmental policies and procedures
- Adheres to the Code of Ethics, Customer Service Standards and the Patients First mission as demonstrated through positive patient/guest relations, positive and effective interactions with staff, formulating and meeting developmental goals
Qualifications
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent; certification from an accredited dental assistant program preferred.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficient in computer skills and dental software applications.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
- Manual dexterity to handle instruments and perform tasks requiring precision.
Preferred:
- At least one year experience working in a dental assistant role
Equal Opportunity
Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
If we offer you a job, we will perform a background check that includes a review of any criminal convictions. A conviction does not disqualify you from employment at Northwestern Medicine. We consider this on a case-by-case basis and follow all state and federal guidelines.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
