Dental Assistant

Location: Winding Waters Medical Clinic, Wallowa County, OR Reports To: Dental Assistant Manager Position Type: Full-Time Position Summary: JOB SUMMARY Responsible for assisting dentists and dental hygienists with direct patient care before, during, and after dental office visits. This role is crucial in ensuring a smooth and efficient patient flow within the dental clinic. Must comply with all HIPAA requirements as outlined by Federal Government regulations and Winding Waters Clinic's privacy policy. Job Domains A. Patient Preparation & Rooming Protocol ● Review or abstract patient dental charts for each visit (e.g., patient history, previous treatments, allergies). ● Update the patient medical and dental history, including allergies and current medications. ● Prepare age-appropriate screening tools as needed. ● Escort the patient to the operatory (exam room) using a patient-centered approach. ● Take and record vital signs for every patient. ● Review and reconcile patient's problem list and medications as indicated, populating from outside facilities if necessary. ● Set up operatory based on the type of dental procedure (e.g., restorative, surgical, hygiene, impression taking). ● Provide appropriate pre-procedure instructions and paperwork to patients. ● Manage patient flow efficiently to minimize wait times. B. Assisting with Dental Procedures ● Provide chairside assistance to the dentist during various dental procedures (e.g., fillings, crowns, extractions, root canals, cleanings). ● Prepare and sterilize dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols. ● Mix dental materials (e.g., amalgam, composites, cements, impression materials) as needed. ● Perform dental x-rays (intraoral and extraoral) as directed by the dentist, ensuring proper positioning and safety. Updated 6/11/2025 Winding Waters Medical Clinic - Dental Assistant Job Posting ● Perform preliminary impressions for study models or custom trays. ● Apply topical fluoride and sealants as per the dentist's instructions and state regulations. ● Provide post-operative instructions to patients, verbally and in writing. ● Document dental procedures and patient information accurately in the electronic dental record (EDR). C. Operatory & Instrument Management ● Stock operatories in accordance with standardized equipment/supply lists prior to the start of shift and before leaving for the day. ● Process and sterilize instruments daily using autoclave and other sterilization equipment. ● Dispose of bio-hazardous waste as appropriate following OSHA guidelines. ● Change chair covers, and headrest covers, and prepare the operatory for the next patient throughout the day. ● Maintain cleanliness and organization of dental instruments and supply areas. D. Communication & Record Management ● Monitor and respond to patient calls/messages via phone or patient portal, triaging for urgency and providing appropriate advice. ● Return all phone calls within 24 hours and patient portal messages within 48 hours. ● Schedule follow-up appointments, specialist referrals, and lab work as needed. ● Provide patient education via telephone, patient portal, or in-person as indicated. ● Manage incoming and outgoing faxes, ensuring proper routing and filing of dental records and prescriptions. ● Fill out forms (e.g., insurance, specialist referral forms) from information in the patient chart and obtain necessary signatures. ● Ensure all necessary documents are scanned and filed accurately in the patient's electronic dental record. ● Communicate closely with dentists and other dental staff regarding patient care using appropriate communication channels (e.g., interoffice chat, face-to-face). CLINIC CULTURE: ● Understand and practice the Clinic's Mission Statement. ● Understand and practice the Patient-Centered Dental Home philosophy. ● Exhibit a TEAM attitude. ● Participate in our LEAN learning environment. ● Maintain appropriate life support skills (BLS). JOB SPECIFICATIONS Knowledge and Skills Updated 6/11/2025 Winding Waters Medical Clinic - Dental Assistant Job Posting ● Strong oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate empathetically with patients, families, dentists, hygienists, and co-workers. ● Excellent writing skills for accurate patient data entry into the electronic dental record, inter-office communications, and legible notes. ● Proficient reading skills to understand provider orders, faxes, and electronic health record information. ● Computer Skills, to use the following programs to complete routine tasks: ○ Ochin Epic - Wisdom ○ Google ○ Microsoft Excel ○ Microsoft Word ○ Imaging software (e.g., for digital X-rays) ○ Internet fluency, including email, interoffice chat, and navigating online resources. ● Knowledge of blood and body fluid precautions and sharps safety. ● Knowledge of essential dental lab practices and procedures. ● Ability to maintain strict patient confidentiality (HIPAA). ● Current Dental Assistant certification/licensure as required by state regulations. ● Radiology certification. Physical Characteristics ● See well enough to read, write, type, and perform procedures in a dental setting. ● Hear well enough to comprehend all audible communication from patients and staff. ● Speak well enough to be understood by patients, providers, and other dental staff. ● Use hands and fingers well enough for intricate dental assisting procedures, writing, and typing. Other Characteristics ● Must possess the stamina to work efficiently during busy periods. ● Must have mobility to move quickly about the clinic. ● Must have the ability to lift up to 25 pounds. ● Must tolerate exposure to dental materials, chemicals, and bodily fluids. - Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, and resume to Jessie Michaelson at jessie.michaelson@windingwaters.org Winding Waters Medical Clinic is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.