BASIC FUNCTION: Under the clinical direction of a licensed Dentist, the incumbent performs the duties of a Certified Dental Assistant during examination and treatment of patients and performs other supportive functions. Performs expanded function duties (Expanded Function Dental Assistant, or EFDA). Work involves exposure to communicable diseases, radiation, and flying debris, therefore personal protective equipment appropriate to the task required by Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) will be worn at all times. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
EFDA Restorative is responsible for the restoration of teeth after decay removal and for cavity preparation/hard tissue removal is completed. This includes selection, contouring and placement of matrices, placement of bases and liners and packing, carving and polishing of routine alloy (metal) restorations. Also places and finished routine composite (tooth colored) restorations and may place and contour provisional/temporary restorations. EFDA Hygiene is responsible for the supra-gingival prophylaxis of teeth and clinical crowns including coronal polishing. They are responsible for the application of dental sealants that do not require mechanical alteration of tooth structure prior to sealant placement, provided a dentist has examined the tooth and prescribed the sealant. Responsible for periodontal charting as required, within the scope of training. Performs routine chairside assisting, and accurately records diagnostic information and treatment. Responsible for day-to-day maintenance of all clinic areas, including cleanliness of clinic areas. Provides diagnostic aid including exposing radiographs, recording medical and dental histories. Educates patients regarding treatment and home care. Performs all routine dental equipment maintenance and monitoring for quality assurance. Monitors inventory, orders supplies and maintains adequate levels of supplies. Prepares and maintains dental operatory according to department's policy and procedures. Assists in dental laboratory with, but not limited to; model duplication, appliance fabrication, etc. Performs basic office procedures including answering telephones, scheduling patients. Upholds and promotes the value and integrity of the Seneca Nation Health System's mission statement. Will promote SNHS in a positive manner. Provides care through a trauma-informed lens by incorporating key principles of both physical and psychological environment safety, trustworthiness and transparency, collaboration of decision-making during treatment plan developments, empowerment of patients by recognizing and building upon individual strengths, as well as recognizing and respecting the diversity of cultural backgrounds and sensitivity. Attends all mandatory staff meetings and in-services. Follows all department, SNHS, and Seneca Nation policies. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to patients of all ages as described in the department's policies and procedures. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:
- Must be physically fit to sit, walk, stand, and bend as necessary for long periods of time and occasionally lift supplies weighing no more than 25 lbs.
- Computer proficient with one or more years' experience in a clinical healthcare setting.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Certified Dental Assistant with successful completion of Dental Assisting National Board examination, or a graduate of the IHS Dental Assistant competency program with full time employment and experience as a chairside assistant for five consecutive years, and completion of IHS competencies in infection control, radiology and clinical chairside assisting.
- Completed requirements as set forth by Indian Health Service (IHS) Continuing Dental Education and earned Certification in (I) Expanded Function Dental Assisting Restorative, or (2) Expanded Function Dental Assisting Hygiene to obtain EFDA status.
- CPR/BLS certification required.
- Experience in a large hospital, academic medical center, outpatient health care setting, or Indian Health Service (IHS)/tribal health, preferred.
