Dental Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

JWCH Institute, Inc. is a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with a mission to provide comprehensive health care to low-income and homeless people in the County of Los Angeles.

For many people, gaining access to dental care isn’t simply a matter of finding the nearest dentist. Some may face language and cultural issues that keep them from connecting with dental providers. Others may lack insurance coverage, transportation or childcare that would make it easier for them to visit the dentist. JWCH works to assist patients with navigating barriers and helping them achieve better oral health and improved overall health outcomes.

Position Purpose :

This position is responsible for assisting dentists in the direct provision of primary dental care services to patients at the clinic. Additionally, the Dental Assistant is responsible for sterilizing, preparing, and maintaining inventory control of dental instruments and supplies, as well as ensuring proper infection control in all patient care areas.

Principal Responsibilities :

• Serve as the dentist’s chair-side assistant, utilizing four-handed dentistry techniques.
• Assist patients with minor difficulties, answer questions, and provide directions as authorized by the dentist or hygienist.
• Prepare dental procedures and equipment for patient treatment according to Dental Department protocols and dentist directions.
• Complete digital dental radiographs and take intraoral photographs in compliance with state regulations, laws, and Dental Department protocols.
• Perform independent procedures as delegated by the dentist, such as taking alginate impressions and performing coronal polishing, in accordance with state regulations, laws, and department directives.
• Ensure proper disposal of contaminated or potentially contaminated materials in compliance with Dental Department protocols, clinic policies, and state and federal regulations.
• Maintain compliance with Infection Exposure Control, safety, and HIPAA requirements as outlined by local, state, and federal guidelines, as well as department and clinic policies.
• Perform front office duties as needed, including scheduling and confirming appointments, verifying insurance and eligibility, checking patients in and out, collecting co-pays, and managing patient flow to enhance the patient experience.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Dental Manager, Lead RDA, or Lead Dentist.

Chairside Duties (Under Direct Supervision) :

Chairside Duties (Under General Supervision) :

Skills and Abilities :

Physical Requirements :

Environmental Conditions Critical to Performance :

Education and Experience :

Employee Benefits :

At JWCH Institute, Inc., we believe in taking care of those who take care of others. If you work 30+ hours per week, you’ll enjoy competitive pay and a robust benefits package that includes :

Become part of a team where your work matters. Apply today and help us change lives, one patient at a time.

JWCH Institute, Inc + Wesley Health Centers is an Equal Opportunity and Fair Chance Employer.