To provide direct patient care to orthodontic patients within a Kaiser Permanente dental office.
Essential Functions:
- 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, and 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.
Qualifications:
Basic Qualifications:
- The individual must meet the requirements of A or B:
- A - Complete a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
- B - 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).
- Current Oregon Certificate of Dental Radiological Proficiency upon hire.
- Oregon EFODA (Expanded Functions Orthodontic Dental Assistant) certification within 6 months of hire date.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers within 90 day of hire date.
- 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.
Salary Range:
$17.74 - $ 22.15
External hires must pass a background check/drug screen.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.