Job Role
The Dental Assistant provides chairside support to dentists and ensures smooth clinical operations within the dental practice. The role involves assisting during dental procedures, preparing treatment areas, sterilizing instruments, managing patient records, and supporting patient care and education. The Dental Assistant plays a vital role in enhancing patient comfort, maintaining infection control standards, and ensuring efficient clinic workflow.
STRATEGIC PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The Dental Assistant will support the clinic to:
Deliver safe and efficient dental care services.
Enhance patient comfort and satisfaction during treatment.
Maintain high standards of infection prevention and control.
Ensure accurate documentation and patient record management.
Support dentists and hygienists in clinical and administrative tasks.
Improve operational efficiency and clinic organization.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Clinical Support
Prepare treatment rooms and ensure readiness for procedures.
Assist dentists during examinations and treatments.
Hand instruments and materials to dentists during procedures.
Take and develop dental radiographs (X-rays).
Provide chairside assistance and patient reassurance.
Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment.
Patient Care & Education
Welcome patients and prepare them for treatment.
Provide instructions on oral hygiene and post-treatment care.
Support patient comfort and reduce anxiety during procedures.
Administrative Support
Schedule patient appointments and manage clinic calendar.
Maintain accurate patient records and treatment notes.
Handle billing, payments, and insurance documentation (if applicable).
Manage inventory of dental supplies and materials.
Infection Control & Safety
Adhere to strict infection prevention protocols.
Ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of treatment areas.
QUALIFICATIONS
Diploma or Certificate in Dental Assisting or related field.
Registered/licensed with the relevant regulatory body in Kenya (where applicable).
Minimum of 1 - 2 years' experience in a dental clinic or healthcare setting.
Knowledge of dental procedures, instruments, and materials.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is an added advantage.
COMPETENCIES
Chairside assistance and clinical support
Dental radiography and imaging
Instrument sterilization and infection control
Appointment scheduling and clinic administration
Inventory management
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Patient-centric mindset