POSITION SUMMARY

As a Dentist in our detention center, you will assume a critical role in providing essential dental care to our detainee population. Collaborating closely with the Health Services Administrator, you will oversee dental care priorities, ensure compliance with contractual obligations, and maintain the overall quality of dental services delivered on-site and off-site. Your expertise will contribute to the detention center's mission of providing comprehensive healthcare within the unique context of a correctional facility.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Although it is not possible to provide an exhaustive list of all types of duties, responsibilities and performance standards, the following are the essential job functions:

• With the Health Services Administrator, determines dental care priorities in relation to the facility’s mission, vision, values, and scope of service.
• Perform comprehensive oral examinations and diagnose dental conditions.
• Create personalized treatment plans for patients based on their oral health needs.
• Conduct routine dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
• Administer local anesthetics for patient comfort during treatments.
• Promote and educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices.
• Offer guidance on diet and lifestyle choices that impact oral health.
• Repair and restore damaged teeth using dental materials like fillings and crowns.
• No dentures in-house. Orthodontics wouldn’t take place here.
• Handle dental emergencies, such as toothaches or dental trauma.
• Provide immediate care and referrals when required.
• Educate patients about their treatment options and oral health maintenance.
• Strictly adhere to infection control protocols to maintain a clean and safe dental environment.
• Ensure proper sterilization of equipment and maintain hygiene standards.
• Interpret dental X-rays and other diagnostic imaging for diagnosis.
• Maintain accurate patient records and treatment documentation.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in dentistry through professional development.
• Attend relevant training and seminars to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Work closely with dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other healthcare professionals for coordinated patient care.
• Effectively communicate treatment plans and options with patients.
• Ensure compliance with dental regulations and standards.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and privacy in accordance with healthcare laws.
• Keep accurate and up-to-date patient records.
• Assist with billing and insurance claims as necessary.

FACTOR 1 – KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

a:  knowledge required

Good knowledge of:

• Excellent assessment skills
• Computer skills

Working skill in:

• Making sound judgments in making decisions in accordance with departmental rules, regulations, and policies
• Communicating effectively both orally and in writing
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public.

b:  qualifications

Graduation from an approved college/university dental program.

• Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from an accredited institution.
• Valid state dental license and compliance with all relevant state dental practice requirements.
• Previous experience in a similar role, preferably in a healthcare setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of current dental practices and emerging trends in dentistry.

c:  license & Certification Required

Must possess and maintain a valid license to practice dentistry in the State of Rhode Island.

FACTOR 2 – SUPERVISORY CONTROL

This position reports to the Health Service Administrator.

FACTOR 3 – GUIDELINES

Must follow all proper policies and procedures of the institution.  May devise own policies and procedures with appropriate approval of the Health Service Administrator consistent with sound correctional policies and procedures.

FACTOR 4 – PERSONAL CONTACTS

Not Applicable.

FACTOR 5 – ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS    

Requires regular and reliable attendance, as well as possess physical and mental endurance to respond properly and professionally to stressful situations and work environment.  Organized and well disciplined to document all treatment, incidents, training, etc.

FACTOR 6 – PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.   Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to extensive sitting, walking, standing, bending, stooping, carrying/moving heavy objects or ascending/descending stairs.  Employee must be capable, if required, to avert danger, break up an altercation, defend oneself against physical threat and protect facility property.  Employee will participate in defined staff training.

FACTOR 7 – WORK ENVIRONMENT

The correctional environment is a fast paced, stressful area of medical specialty.  Applicant must possess a professional work ethic, and work well under pressure.  The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job.