Registered Dental Assistant

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) uses their practical experience and knowledge in Dental Assisting and dental materials to provide support to the Dentist in the care and treatment of dental patients. Performs clinical tasks and expanded duties as assigned under general supervision of a licensed dentist in accordance with the Michigan Dental Practice Act. Maintains a clean and organized work environment.

Participates in a team-based approach and ensures professional behavior toward all patients, providers, and staff. Participates in activities related to Quality Improvement. Functions under the supervision of the Dental Center Coordinator or Oral Health Coordinator.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Assists the dentist chair-side in all clinical procedures, providing proper suctioning technique, passing instruments, and mixing materials as needed. Performs various assigned lab duties. Prepares patient for treatment and sets-up trays per procedure in compliance with individual provider's requests.
• At the direction and supervision of the Staff Dentist, performs expanded duty procedures in accordance with the Michigan Dental Practice Act. Assists the dentist chair-side in all clinical procedures, providing proper suctioning technique, passing instruments, and mixing materials as needed. Performs various assigned lab duties. Prepares patient for treatment and sets-up trays per procedure in compliance with individual provider's requests.
• Responsible for the accuracy, clarity, and proper completion of dental charting. Documents relevant communications with patient into a detailed clinical or communication note. Prints treatment plans and effectively communicates treatment with the patient and reception staff. Provides thorough dental education to patients. Takes and records patients’ vitals (blood pressure, height, weight, etc.) at every visit. At the dentist’s requests takes and records other relevant vitals.
  
  Ensures the proper completion of all EHR requirements within each visit.
• Follows Dental Infection Control Program and other regulatory policies and procedures. Coordinates efforts with coworkers to complete operatory set-up, equipment cleaning, sterilization of instruments, and disinfection of operatory. Restocks supplies in operatory and storage room. Informs the individual in charge of ordering of any supplies needed.
• Takes diagnostic quality digital and conventional radiographs as assigned by the Staff Dentist, demonstrating proper radiographic techniques and radiation protection.
• Completes and submits Medicaid prior authorizations. Maintains detailed spreadsheets logging and tracking prior authorizations and referrals.

MARGINAL JOB DUTIES

• Coordinates work efforts with co-workers to maintain patient flow throughout the office. Thoroughly communicates with patients, coworkers, providers, and leadership staff.
• Maintains an organized work environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED JOB SPECIFICATIONS

• Education:
  
  State of Michigan Registered Dental Assistant Licensure from an accredited dental assisting program.
• Licensure:
  Current license to practice as a Registered Dental Assistant, with Expanded Duties, in the State of Michigan. State of Michigan Radiology Certification required. Current BLS Certification required.
• Experience:
  
  Proven experience as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA);
  Externship / Internship applicable.
• Skills:
  Knowledge of dental terminology, chair-side techniques, and dental insurances/prior authorizations. Organized and detailed, able to prioritize tasks. Effective communication skills. Efficient typing and computer skills. Able to work independently and as a team member. Flexible in day-to-day duties and responsibilities. Protects patients’ rights by maintaining confidentiality (HIPAA) of personal and financial information.
• Interpersonal skills:
  Ability to communicate effectively with, and relate to, a diverse population in a professional manner. Capable of taking initiative in day-to-day responsibilities. Excellent verbal and written skills.
• Physical Effort:
  Must be able to sit, stand, and or walk for an entire workday. Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull,…