Dental Assistant

Job Overview

The Dental Assistant plays a vital role in supporting dentists by performing various technical tasks during patient examinations and treatments. This includes assisting during dental procedures, preparing tools, and maintaining dental instruments and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide assistance to dentists during procedures through patient seating, instrument provision, material mixing, and recording treatment details.
• Prepare patients for oral surgeries and support the surgeon by setting up surgical trays and equipment, monitoring vital signs and ECG, and assisting during operations.
• Monitor patient status during surgeries, alert surgeons to any sudden changes, and perform emergency interventions as required.
• Ensure dental instruments, supplies, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, assembled, and ready for use.
• Assist in making dental cast models by preparing materials, taking impressions, and finishing models.
• Take and develop intraoral and extraoral X-rays to aid diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Document treatment results accurately in patient records and provide oral care instructions and educational materials to patients.
• Manage appointment scheduling and confirmations, maintain patient records, handle administrative tasks, requisition supplies, and perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Track patient account balances, coordinate fee collections with the dental reception, and oversee inventory management.
• Maintain sterilization equipment and dental units by performing daily upkeep, such as cleaning filters, oiling handpieces, and flushing suction hoses; report equipment malfunctions promptly to the Dental Department Chairperson.
• Strictly follow infection control protocols and keep the emergency response cart fully stocked and inspected regularly for expiration dates.
• Manage dental supply inventory, monitor stock levels, and communicate shortages to the Dental Chairperson.
• Measure and record patients’ vital signs accurately and promptly.
• Educate patients and their families on health conditions, treatments, and preventive care where applicable.
• Carry out other duties within the scope of the role as assigned.

Continuous Improvement and Compliance

• Perform all tasks aligned with a patient-centered care philosophy.
• Contribute actively to continuous quality improvement initiatives related to the role.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and address any safety issues proactively.
• Maintain confidentiality of all sensitive information accessed during work.
• Comply with cybersecurity policies, participate in awareness programs to prevent cyber threats.
• Uphold the organization's code of conduct, policies, and ethical standards.
• Complete mandatory training programs on schedule as required.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated excellent customer service skills.
• Educational background: either completion of an accredited dental assistant program or possession of a high school diploma plus at least one year of relevant experience.
• Language proficiency: Oral and written skills in English and Arabic are preferred.
• Licensure: Must hold a valid dental assistant license authorized by the applicable regional health authority (e.g., SCFHS, DHA).