Dental Assistant (Health Programs)
Reporting to: Director of Health and Wellness
SUMMARY: The Dental Assistant supports the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered oral health services in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) setting. Working as part of an integrated care team, the Dental Assistant assists dentists and dental hygienists in providing comprehensive dental care to underserved and diverse populations while maintaining compliance with federal, state, HRSA, OSHA, and infection control standards.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Completion of an accredited Dental Assistant program or equivalent on-the-job training (per state regulations).
- Current Dental Assistant certification or registration as required by state law.
- Ability to meet FQHC credentialing and privileging requirements.
Essential Duties:
- Prepare dental operatories prior to patient visits, including sterilization, setup of instruments, and infection control procedures.
- Assist dentists during examinations, restorative procedures, extractions, radiographs, and other treatments.
- Perform four-handed dentistry and anticipate provider needs during procedures.
- Take and process dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations.
- Prepare and manage dental materials (impressions, cements, composites, etc.).
- Perform allowable expanded functions as permitted by state law and training.
- Greet, room, and prepare patients for dental procedures.
- Review medical and dental histories and document accurately in the electronic dental record (EDR/EHR).
- Provide patient education on oral hygiene, post-operative care, preventive services, and treatment plans.
- Support a trauma-informed, culturally competent approach to care.
- Accurately document services provided in the EHR consistent with FQHC, HRSA, and billing requirements.
- Assist with referral coordination, follow-up, and care continuity.
- Support clinic flow and scheduling to optimize patient access and productivity.
- Maintain strict adherence to OSHA, CDC, and FQHC infection prevention and control policies.
- Sterilize instruments and maintain sterilization logs and safety documentation.
- Ensure operatories and equipment are cleaned, stocked, and maintained.
- Participate in quality improvement, risk management, and compliance activities.
- Collaborate with dental, medical, and behavioral health staff as part of an interdisciplinary care team.
- Support the FQHC’s mission to provide equitable care to underserved populations.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and mandatory in-services.
- Collaborate with local schools, early childhood programs, and community health initiatives to promote LMC services and to increase patient caseloads when asked.
- Other duties as assigned by management
Statement of Non-Inclusivity: This job description is not to be construed as a complete listing of the duties and responsibilities that may be given to any employee. The duties and responsibilities outlined in this position may be added to or changed when deemed appropriate and necessary by the supervisor.
