Orthodontic Dental Assistant
Job Summary:
To provide direct patient care to orthodontic patients within a Kaiser Permanente dental office.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Instruct the patient in proper technique of orthodontic oral hygiene, e.g. the use of elastics, separators, face bow and removable appliances and proper tooth brushing technique.
- Perform the following functions provided the dentist is on the premises and checks the patient before and after the functions are performed: Remove cement from bands using an ultrasonic or hand scaler. Re-cement loose orthodontic bands Take impressions for the following purposes: Diagnostic models; Counter and opposing models; Fabrication of temporary removable orthodontic appliances; Intraoral bite registration for study model articulation. Remove any portion of an orthodontic appliance causing a patient discomfort and replace isomeric ligatures in an emergency when the dentist is not on the premises. Evaluate each returning patient for loose or broken bands and/or unbonded brackets.
- Place and remove ligature ties for adjustment of arch wires and/or bands. Place and remove arch wires. Preliminarily select and size bands. Place and remove interarch elastics and/or spring orthodontic separators. Place bracket on study model and fabricate tray for indirect bonding procedures.
- Photograph patient for intraoral and extraoral diagnosis utilizing appropriate retraction technique and equipment. Label and record all models, photographs and x-rays for presentation of case and later retention. Properly finish study models consistent with the criteria established by the orthodontist.
- As instructed, trace cephalometric x-rays for diagnostic purposes consistent with criteria established by the orthodontist.
Experience
- N/A
Education
- The individual must meet the requirements:
- Complete a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
- Complete a course of instruction in Orthodontic assisting approved by the Board and pass the Basic and Expanded Function Orthodontic Examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB).
License, Certification, Registration
- Dental Radiation Proficiency Certificate (Oregon) required at hire
- Expanded Function Orthodontic Dental Assistant Certificate (Oregon) within 6 months of hire
- Basic Life Support within 3 months of hire
- The individual applicant for this position must demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the individual performing the selection interview, the following qualifications if he/she is to be selected. Furthermore, consistent with the fact that these qualifications are required for selection, they then must be satisfactorily maintained by the individual as a condition of continued employment.
- Demonstrated competence in four-handed dentistry technique.
- Satisfactory level of knowledge and proficiency in the use of current dental materials, instruments and equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and work effectively under both direct and indirect supervision.
- Well organized and manages time well.
- Demonstrated capacity to work in a fast paced, high performance environment.
- Excellent attendance record.
- Final candidate is required to pass a clinical pre-employment skills test.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prefer no less than one (1) year of experience as a dental assistant.
- Prefer experience as an orthodontic assistant but willing to train.
- Basic knowledge of sterilization and infection control equipment
Notes:
- Mon-Fri, variable Sat
- Shifts are 10 hours long. Days/Times vary.