Dental Assistant - Pediatric Dental Office- Richmond
Primary Function/General Purpose of Position
The Dental Assistant supports the delivery of quality dental care by assisting the dentist during patient procedures, preparing and maintaining treatment areas, and ensuring patient comfort. This position plays a key role in enhancing the efficiency of the dental team and improving patient experience by performing a wide range of clinical and administrative tasks in compliance with state dental regulations and office policies.
Essential Job Functions
Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures including examinations, fillings, crowns, and extractions.
Prepare and maintain dental instruments, equipment, and treatment areas by sterilizing tools and ensuring proper infection control procedures.
Take and develop dental radiographs (X-rays) as directed.
Record and update patient medical histories and treatment notes.
Provide patients with oral hygiene instructions and post-operative care guidance.
Monitor and maintain dental inventory, ordering supplies and restocking as necessary.
This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
Licensing/Certification
Registered Dental Assistant in state of practice (preferred)
Radiology license in state of practice (preferred)
BLS Basic Life Support (preferred upon hire, must obtain from approved source prior to direct patient care)
Education
High school diploma or GED (required)
Work Experience
2 years’ experience in a dental assisting role (preferred)
Training
N/A
Language
N/A
Patient Population
The following must be included in all position descriptions that involve direct or indirect patient care. This is a Joint Commission requirement. Also, select the age of the patient population served:
X Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.
X Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his or her age, specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures.
Neonates (0-4 weeks)
Infant (1-12 months)
X Pediatrics (1-12 years)
X Adolescents (13-17 years)
X Adults (18-64 years)
X Geriatrics (65 years and older)
Not applicable to this position
Working Conditions
This section addresses the physical environment in which the employee will perform the work. Please identify ALL working conditions that apply to the role.
X Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.
Long-distance or air travel as needed- not to exceed 10% travel.
General office environment.
X May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights.
May be exposed to physical altercations and verbal abuse.
X May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids.*
May be required to use physical restraints.
X May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials.*
May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc.
X May have periods of constant interruptions.
Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.
Prolonged periods of working alone.
____ Other:
____ Not applicable to this position
* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.
Hazards
X Depth perception
X Use of Latex products
X Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents
X Exposure to moving mechanical parts
X Exposure to dust/fumes
Exposure to potential electrical shock
X Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy
X Exposure to high pitched noises
Gaseous risk exposure
Other:
____ Not applicable to this position
Skills
Hard/Tech/Clinical Skills:
Dental instrument sterilization
Chairside assisting during dental procedures
X-ray imaging and processing (as allowed by state regulation)
Infection control and OSHA compliance
Charting and EHR usage
Basic knowledge of dental anatomy and terminology
Preparing and mixing dental materials
Soft/Interpersonal Skills:
Effective verbal communication with patients and team
Compassion
patient-centered care
Active listening and following detailed instructions
Professionalism and reliability
Time management and multitasking
Calm under pressure and adaptable to fast-paced environments
Range:
Minimum: $19.97
Maximum: $29.96
As a Bon Secours Mercy Health associate, you're part of a Mission that matters. We support your well-being—personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.
What we offer
- Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)
- Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HSA/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources and discounts
- Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders
- Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support
Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Bon secours Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com