Dental Assistant

Under broad supervision, assists the dentist and/or hygienist in chair-side dentistry and prepares dental instruments. Performs administrative duties as needed and can serve as a lead worker. Responsibilities include time management, organizational skills, enhanced infection control, and accurate documentation of treatment plans. This role involves frequent interactions with patients, providers, and staff.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Apply topical fluoride and dental sealants.

• Record procedures and services rendered in the EMR system.

• Assist the dentist in managing medical and dental emergencies.

• Clean and polish removable dental appliances.

• Expose and process dental diagnostic x-rays.

• Instruct clients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.

• Prepare patients, sterilize and disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, and assist the dentist during procedures.

• Provide postoperative instructions as prescribed by the dentist.

• Record treatment information accurately in patient records.

• Take and document medical and dental histories and vital signs of clients.

• Train other staff in proper day-to-day procedures as needed.

• Attend educational courses, training, and seminars to stay current in dental practices and protocols.

• Perform additional professional responsibilities as assigned.

High School diploma/GED and two (2) years of experience in a dental setting; or a Vocational/Technical degree in dental assisting from an accredited college and one (1) year of experience as a dental assistant; or one (1) year experience at the lower level Dental Asst 2 (HCS011) or position equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of dental assisting terminology, principles, and techniques.

• Proficient in infection control practices and instrument sterilization.

• Experienced in taking radiographs, providing oral hygiene instruction and tobacco counseling, and educating patients on the importance of oral health.

The DPH Commissioner and agency leaders encourage all employees to engage in regular wellness activities and to make lifestyle choices that promote health and well-being. 

The use of physical activity breaks during the workday is authorized to support this philosophy and help employees meet their wellness goals. A maximum of 30 minutes of physical activity may be allocated per workday, typically in the form of two 15-minute breaks or one 30-minute break.

Employment Information

State of Georgia employees are subject to the rules of the State Personnel Board regarding salary.

DPH accepts educational credentials recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and/or the US Department of Education (DOE) as valid. DPH will contact educational institutions to verify degrees, diplomas, licensures, and other relevant credentials.

The candidate selected for this position may be subject to pre-employment drug screening and a criminal background check.

Relocation assistance is not provided.

In the event of an identified emergency, you may be required, as a term and condition of DPH employment, to assist in meeting the emergency responsibilities of the department. 

ADA Statement

DPH is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process, email DPH-HR@dph.ga.gov. 

DPH is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to provide information on application status by phone or e-mail. All qualified applicants will be considered, but may not receive an interview.  DPH will contact selected applicants to proceed with the application process. Applicants who are not selected will not receive notification.

This position is subject to close at any time once a satisfactory applicant pool has been identified.

BENEFITS

Standard Benefits for Full-Time Salaried Employees
 In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a generous benefits package that includes a flexible schedule, training opportunities, health insurance, employee retirement plan (ERS GSEPS), deferred compensation, 13 paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, paid parental leave, dental, vision, long-term care, and life insurance.

Standard Benefits for Part-Time Employees

Part-time employees are eligible to participate in the Georgia Defined Contribution Plan and receive paid parental leave.