Maniilaq Association

11/2025

Title:  Expanded Functions Dental Health Aide I                                                     Range: TBD

Program:  Dental                                                                                               Status:  Non-Exempt         

Housing: None                                                                                                 Covered:  Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

Provides assistance to Dental Providers and supports clinic functions. Maintains certification according to the Community Health Aide Program/I.H.S. Certification Standards and Procedures for Expanded Functions Dental Health Aide Prophylaxis and/or Sealants. The Expanded Functions Dental Health Aide I should be proficient in the following tasks: dental prophylaxis and/or sealant applications, operatory preparation, proficient chair-side assisting, record keeping, taking appropriate diagnostic dental radiographs, preparation of dental materials, placing/removing rubber dam, suture removal, taking dental impressions, and dental assistant training. Work is done in the Maniilaq Service Area but primarily based in Kotzebue. Reports directly to the Dental Operations Supervisor.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.       Displays a willing and helpful attitude toward patients and staff.  Professionally communicates in a warm, concerned, caring, and friendly manner over the telephone and in person.

2.       Cleans and sterilizes dental equipment and instruments using autoclave according to infection control standards.  Cleans and disinfects dental work areas according to infection control standards.

3.       Stores and maintains adequate supplies in dental work areas.

4.       Prepares operatory for dental provider, including seating and draping patients, and setting out instruments and materials needed for treatment.

5. Takes radiographs as prescribed by dental clinician. Evaluates finished radiographs for their diagnostic quality, consults with provider and re-takes as necessary.
6. Provides chair-side assistance during all facets of routine dental treatment, including passing and receiving instruments, arranging and preparing materials for use, operating oral evacuation, and provides lip, tongue, and cheek retraction.
7. Places and removes rubber dam.
8. Removes sutures under the direction of dentist.

9.       Takes preliminary impressions for lab work, pours & trims models.

10. Takes vital signs on patients as ordered by provider.
11. Assists the Dental Operations Supervisor with training Dental Assistants.
12. Demonstrates sound decision-making abilities concerning patient care. 
13. Reviews patient health history, takes vital signs, provides basic OHI, applies topical fluoride as prescribed, and gives post-treatment instructions to patient.
14. Makes good use of time, insuring that patients are treated in a timely manner by monitoring and assisting patient flow in the clinic.
15. Reports to Dental Operations Supervisor.
16. Records specific information on patients' records as dictated by provider.

17.    Prepares supplies and equipment for village travel, and works overtime as needed during those trips.

18.    Accesses, reads and responds as necessary to written material and e-mail on a daily basis.

19.    Maintains confidentiality of patients and hospital-related information according to HIPPA Guidelines.

20.    Meet all the requirements and training from the Alaska Area Community Health Aide Program/I.H.S. Certification Board’s Standards and Procedures for Dental Prophylaxis and/or Sealants.

21.    Expected to maintain Basic Life Support, I.H.S. Dental Radiology Certification, and Alaska Area Community Health Aide Program/I.H.S. Dental Prophylaxis/Sealants Certification. Additional training outside of the area may also be required.

22.    Follows Dental Assistant Guidelines according to State of Alaska.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 6 months experience as a Dental Assistant II, job related experience. Must have and maintain Basic Life Support, I.H.S. Radiology Certification, and Alaska Area Community Health Aide Program/I.H.S Certification Boards Standard and Procedures for Dental Prophylaxis and/or Sealants. Must demonstrate the ability to perform the duties at the level of an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant I through certification/recertification with Community Health Aide Program/I.H.S. Certification Board.  Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time, willing and able to fly in small aircraft, and lift and carry 40 pounds.  Inupiaq / English bilingual preferred.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this job, and the employer reserves the right to revise or change this description.  This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties ad meet physical demands.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet those conditions.