Job at a glance
This position is expected to perform a full range of duties with some independence in assigned specialties, with indirect supervision from the Lead Dental Assistant, Supervisor or treating Dentist. Major duties: As a Dental Assistant, you will: Show courtesy, respect, and a positive attitude for patients, co-workers and the public. Provide assistance to customers with questions or concerns, provides service recovery.
Set up operatory and/or surgery suite for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover. Passe instruments safely, accurately, and efficiently. Keep operative field clear of debris and retracts oral tissues effectively and comfortably for patients. Prepare dental medicaments and impression materials per manufacturer's instructions. Images are characterized by diagnostic quality, accurately oriented and exposed.
Dental imaging safety techniques are utilized, and retakes are minimized. Imaging requests are accomplished within the desired time frame. Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory. Instruments are properly prepared for sterilization by SPS standards. Instruments are prepared in manner that does not delay clinical care. Demonstrate proper infection control procedures in exposing images.
Assist patients in scheduling appointments. Assist in filling gaps in the doctor's schedule due to late cancellation and failed appointments. Assist dentist in charting findings and treatment plans in patient records. Maintain patient confidentiality per HIPAA with written and verbal information. Follow computer security regulations. Modify care as necessitated by patient's age and abilities (patient transfer and position).
Provide accurate and understandable instructions to patients. Participate in patient identification and time out per Joint Commissions requirements. Monitor patient condition during treatment, being alert for signs of physical distress. Comply with Employee Education requirements. Complete mandatory annual safety training sessions. Pour impressions and prepares study model. Select and manipulate a variety of gypsums and waxes.
Make final denture impression trays and prepares bite rims. Fabricate custom trays. Assist with specialty procedures including oral surgery, periodontal therapy, endodontic, prosthodontic, and implant placement and restoration. Anticipate surgeons/specialists needs at each stage of treatment. Work Schedule: Monday through Friday 7:30am to 4pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 08338-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Requirements: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents).
Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness