Dental Assistant

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provides chair side or operating room assistance to Dentists and other providers. Maintains sterile environment and aseptic technique. Utilizes “four-handed” technique and works as a team with the Dentist, passes and receives instruments, retracts patient’s cheek or tongue, operates oral vacuum evacuating equipment and applies water and air to the field of operation.
• Maintains inventory of clinic equipment, instruments, forms, and supplies and identifies need for replacement. May assist with ordering processes. Maximizes room utilization through inventory awareness, stocking, cleaning of operatories, and daily preparation of dental units. Cleans and decontaminates instruments. Cleans and maintains equipment. Identifies need and/or performs repairs. Following the patient visit, completes required laboratory work such as pouring dentures, partials, and crown models, making bite guards or setting up fluoride trays for preventive therapy. Disposes of hazardous waste/chemicals. Escorts patients to and from operatories as needed. Provides assistance for any patient special needs. Follows standard clinical safety measures such as Patient Identification Verification of all patients.
• Anticipates day-to-day needs, including armamentarium, nitrogen tank, OR carts, and other specific equipment, material and supply needs for patient and provider to ensure smooth operations and patient safety. Reviews patient record to consider and prepare for the complexity of each visit and/or procedure and the time frame required so patient schedule may be maintained or modified as needed.
• Sets up/uses specialized equipment for documentation of vital signs, including pulse oximetry during nitrous oxide or IV sedation cases.
• Takes intra-oral, extra-oral, panorex radiographs. Anticipates diagnostic needs. Develops and mounts radiographs.
• Performs instrument sterilization.
• Collects and enters data for quality assurance and other departmental initiatives. Performs QA testing and ensures compliance with all QA expectations. Supports research activities by performing duties such as assistance with the collection of samples/biopsies. Supports new hire training/orientation by participating in shadow training experiences or other technical training. In the absence of a Lead Dental Assistant, may perform other managerial duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma or High School student in good academic standing required
• 1-year experience as a Dental Assistant or in an Operating Room environment preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and computer experience preferred

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• valid work permit upon hire required

EOE Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled:

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law.  This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.