Dental Assistant
Encode INC
Tuba City, AZ
5x8 hrs
Referral Bonus

Job Title: Dental Assistant

Location: Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC)
Department: Dental Services
Reports To: Dental Clinic Supervisor / Dental Director
Position Type: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Dental Assistant provides chairside assistance to dentists and dental hygienists during patient examinations and treatment procedures. This position is responsible for preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, obtaining patient information, performing radiographic procedures, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring a safe and efficient clinical environment. The Dental Assistant plays a key role in delivering quality oral healthcare and promoting positive patient experiences.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Support

• Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for dental procedures.
• Assist dentists during examinations, restorative procedures, oral surgeries, and other dental treatments.
• Anticipate provider needs and provide four-handed dentistry support.
• Take and develop dental radiographs in accordance with safety regulations.
• Perform dental charting and document treatment procedures accurately.
• Obtain and record patient medical and dental histories.
• Take and record vital signs when required.
• Apply topical anesthetics, fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive measures as permitted by state regulations.
• Provide post-operative instructions and patient education.

Infection Control & Sterilization

• Clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments and equipment according to infection control standards.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, CDC, and organizational safety protocols.
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of biohazardous materials.
• Monitor sterilization equipment and maintain sterilization logs.

Patient Care & Education

• Greet and prepare patients for treatment.
• Explain dental procedures and address patient concerns.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene, preventive care, and treatment plans.
• Assist with scheduling follow-up appointments and referrals.
• Support patient comfort and safety throughout treatment.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate patient records within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Assist with appointment scheduling, patient registration, and insurance verification as needed.
• Manage inventory and order dental supplies.
• Prepare laboratory cases and coordinate with dental laboratories.
• Complete required reports and documentation timely.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Completion of an accredited Dental Assistant program preferred.

Certifications

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association or ability to obtain within three months of hire.
• Current Dental Assistant certification/licensure as required by state regulations.

Experience

• Minimum one (1) year of dental assisting experience preferred.
• Experience assisting in general dentistry and specialty procedures is a plus.

Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
• Familiarity with dental radiography and infection control practices.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Proficiency in EHR and dental practice management software.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential.
• Experience in community health, tribal health, or public health settings.
• Bilingual skills (English and Navajo preferred).
• Experience with digital radiography and electronic dental records.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and sitting.
• Ability to lift and carry supplies and equipment up to 30 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required for handling dental instruments and equipment.
• Ability to work in close proximity to patients for extended periods.

Work Environment

• Dental clinic and healthcare setting.
• Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, and hazardous materials.
• Requires strict adherence to infection prevention and safety protocols.