Hire Dental Assistants
In hiring a dental assistant, it is important to first highlight the role’s importance in providing care to dental clinic patients. A job description is the first point of communication between candidates and the hiring medical facility or institution. Create a job description that is clear, concise, and detailed. Are you looking for candidates who live in a specific area? What is the schedule? Is prior experience required? Outline the responsibilities and requirements clearly. Keep in mind, though, that the job description is more than just a list of expectations. Highlight what you can offer the candidate.
Additionally, be clear about the schedule, the number of hours, and location. Depending on the need, dental assistants may work in hospitals and stand-alone dental clinics on a part-time or full-time basis.
Once you have a compelling job description, posting your job announcement is the next step. Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on dental-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well.
Dental Assistants Responsibilities
Dental assistants perform a variety of patient care duties daily. They work alongside dentists and are in charge of assisting them in carrying out dental treatment plans. Dental assistants clean and sterilize all dental materials and instruments. This includes setting instruments on the tray to ensure that they are prepped and ready for use in scheduled or emergency procedures.
Upon the arrival of patients at the clinic or dental office, dental assistants greet them warmly, validate their appointment, and assist them in filling out patient forms and histories. They may also take their initial vital signs before directing them to be seen by the dentist.
Dental assistants help dentists perform dental procedures and maintain a record of patients and dental procedures done. They use dental x-rays for diagnostics and are responsible for reminding patients about post-treatment guidelines. Additionally, dental assistants perform administrative duties like appointment setting, confirmation, and follow-up calls. They make sure that the dental office lobby and general operatory areas are clean, tidy, and disinfected. Dental assistants ensure that the dental office remains fully-stocked, monitor the level of supplies, and order them as needed. Lastly, dental assistants treat patients with respect, compassion, and empathy. They uphold patient confidentiality and professionalism at all times and follow legislation, healthcare laws, and safety standards.
Dental Assistants Skills and Qualifications
The ideal candidate for a dental assistant is a person who is compassionate, trustworthy, and professional with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Candidates must have a certification or associate degree in dental assistance or from dental hygiene program and a dental x-ray certification. Ideally, they must also possess updated CPR and first aid training certificates. Previous experience in the same role is an advantage. Other qualifications include attention to detail, a strong ability to follow instructions, and adherence to standard protocols regarding patient care.
Attracting great candidates for a dental assistant position is possible with a few tweaks and highlights to the hiring description. If the hospital or dental office is willing to hire candidates without previous work experience and will provide training, this may lead to more applications and widen the selection pool. If there is a possibility for professional growth, be sure to include that as well. The goal is to make the right candidate feel excited to apply, knowing they will be able to contribute to and grow in your practice.
