Dental Assistant/PSR

The Dental Assistant works under general supervision. Set up and take regular and digital radiographs. Save and export radiographs to different formats. Check developing solutions levels for freshness in developers. Assists in taking patient's vital signs. Assist with four handed dentistry, sterilization of instrument, and dispensary of supplies.

Daily Operations:

Assists dental faculty, residents and students.

Prepares for dental treatment by draping patient with covering.

Arranges dental instruments, materials and medications on chair side tray in the order they are to be used, according to scheduled treatment.

Keeps oral areas clear during dental procedures by use of suction devices, cotton rolls, holders, etc.

Passes instruments to the Dentist and assists during oral surgery.

Mixes dental material for procedure being done.

Sterilizes instruments using autoclaves or chemical disinfectants.

Produces 3D digital radiographs for the performance of implant surgeries.

Produces digital radiographs for all student clinics.

Takes digital radiographs and mounts prints for review and study.

Change developing solutions in developers as needed, and logs number of exposures daily.

Takes patients vital signs, pour, trim and polishes casts and removable appliance.

Conducts plaque controls program and provide home care instructions.

Assists students in x-ray techniques and terminology; provides training in four-hand techniques.

Performs clerical duties, receives patients, arranges appointments and records treatment.

Keeps inventory of materials in stock and what's used.

Assist with procedures performed by students; answers the telephone and takes messages.

Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Dispense instruments and supplies to faculty, students, and residents.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Ability to assist students, residents and/or faculty in chair procedures.

Ability to understand technical and dental terminology.

Knowledge of names and use of dental supplies, instruments and equipment.

Knowledge of basic methods of dental record keeping and reporting.

Knowledge of sterilization techniques and procedures.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent, successful completion of a dental assistant program, and registration with the State of Tennessee required. Prior experience working with 2D and 3D radiology equipment preferred.

Environmental Conditions and Physical Demands:

Ability to work in a fast pace environment. Visual acuity to detect cleanness Regular exposure to the risk of blood borne pathogens. Occasionally exposure to radiation hazards. Exposure to hazards from sharp instruments.

JR101069