Oral Surgery Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning:

Diagnose dental issues, including decay, erosion, fractures, and wear on teeth.
Develop personalized treatment plans to restore teeth and enhance oral health while minimizing invasive procedures.
Educate patients on their condition and the most conservative, effective treatment options available.
Restorative Procedures:

Perform dental fillings, including composite (tooth-colored) fillings, amalgam fillings, and glass ionomer fillings.
Place crowns, veneers, and onlays to restore and protect damaged teeth.
Conduct root surface restoration, including the treatment of cavities and tooth decay.
Perform tooth whitening and other aesthetic treatments to enhance patient smiles.
Treat dental sensitivity through conservative interventions such as fluoride treatments and desensitizing agents.
Preventive Care:

Provide preventive treatments, including sealants, fluoride treatments, and oral hygiene education.
Offer guidance on at-home oral care routines to prevent dental issues and promote healthy habits.
Conduct routine check-ups and cleanings (in collaboration with dental hygienists) to detect early signs of decay or other issues.
Minimally Invasive Techniques:

Use advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, such as digital radiography and laser dentistry, to detect and treat dental problems with minimal discomfort and invasiveness.
Utilize air abrasion and other modern techniques to remove decay while preserving healthy tooth structure.
Collaboration and Referrals:

Work closely with dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other specialists (e.g., periodontists, orthodontists) to provide comprehensive care to patients.
Refer patients to specialists when necessary for advanced treatments beyond the scope of conservative dentistry.
Patient Education:

Educate patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and the role of regular dental visits in preventing dental problems.
Explain treatment options, benefits, and risks clearly, ensuring patients make informed decisions about their care.
Recordkeeping and Documentation:

Maintain accurate, detailed patient records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and progress notes.
Document all procedures, medications, and treatments using appropriate dental software.

Desired candidate profile

Clinical Expertise:

Proficiency in performing common conservative dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, veneers, root surface restoration, and dental hygiene therapies.
Familiarity with minimally invasive techniques and equipment, including air abrasion, laser dentistry, and digital imaging.
Knowledge of various dental materials, such as composites, ceramics, and bonding agents.
Patient-Centered Approach:

Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain dental procedures and treatments in a way that is easy for patients to understand.
Empathetic, compassionate, and patient-focused, with an ability to make patients feel at ease during procedures.
Preventive Care Focus:

Strong emphasis on the prevention of dental disease, including the promotion of oral hygiene, regular cleanings, and early intervention.
Ability to educate patients on good oral hygiene practices, nutrition, and lifestyle habits that impact oral health.
Attention to Detail:

Highly detail-oriented with the ability to execute precise restorations and aesthetic treatments.
Careful assessment and documentation of patient progress and treatment outcomes.
Technological Competence:

Familiarity with dental practice management software (e.g., Dentrix, Eaglesoft) and digital radiography systems.
Knowledge of modern tools and equipment used in conservative dentistry, including laser systems, air abrasion units, and CAD/CAM technology for restorations.
Time Management:

Ability to manage a busy schedule, handle multiple patient cases, and provide efficient treatment without compromising on care quality.
Collaborative Teamwork:

Ability to work effectively with other dental professionals, including dental assistants, hygienists, and specialists, to provide comprehensive care.
Willingness to mentor junior staff, dental students, or residents.
Professionalism and Ethics:

High ethical standards, with a focus on patient well-being and confidentiality.
Strong commitment to maintaining a professional, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere in the dental clinic.