Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Maria C Nunez

Rohnert Park,CA

Summary

Dynamic Lead Registered Dental Assistant with extensive experience at Petaluma Health Center, excelling in patient care management and team collaboration. Proven ability to enhance patient satisfaction through effective communication and infection control proficiency. Successfully reduced supply costs while training staff, fostering a culture of excellence and reliability in dental practices.

Knowledgeable of Oral Surgery, Periodontal, Orthodontic General and Pedodontic procedures with a strong foundation in dental assisting and proven ability to support complex procedures. Guided team in maintaining high standards of patient care and implemented infection control protocols. Demonstrated expertise in patient communication and administrative efficiency.

Experienced with patient care and dental procedures, ensuring optimal support for dental professionals and patients alike. Utilizes effective communication skills to foster positive environment and seamless workflow. Knowledge of dental radiography, chairside assistance, and infection control.

Professional dental assistant with substantial experience in providing comprehensive patient care and efficient clinical support. Proven ability to enhance patient satisfaction, streamline dental operations, and uphold high standards of hygiene and safety. Strong focus on team collaboration and adaptability, ensuring seamless integration into dynamic dental practices. Skilled in chairside assistance, radiography, patient education, and maintaining meticulous records. Reliable and results-driven with commitment to delivering exceptional patient outcomes.

Possesses versatile skills in project management, problem-solving, and collaboration. Brings fresh perspective and strong commitment to quality and success. Recognized for adaptability and proactive approach in delivering effective solutions.

Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Pursuing full-time role that presents professional challenges and leverages interpersonal skills, effective time management, and problem-solving expertise.

Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.


Overview

22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Lead Registered Dental Assistant/Back Office Manager

Petaluma Health Center
09.2023 - 10.2024
  • Coordinated team schedules to maximize productivity while maintaining a positive work-life balance for staff members.
  • Prepared rooms for patient treatment by cleaning and sterilizing tools and equipment and setting up x-ray machines.
  • Maintained strict sterilization protocols, ensuring a safe and sanitary environment for patients and staff.
  • Gathered detailed medical history from patients before beginning any treatment plan which contributed towards more effective treatments.
  • Managed inventory of dental supplies, reducing costs by optimizing order frequency and amounts.
  • Trained new dental assistants, providing guidance on best practices and ensuring high-quality patient care.
  • Conducted regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper function and longevity of tools.
  • Recorded patients' health histories, documented current symptoms, and pulled up records from prior visits for dentists to view and evaluate.
  • Maintained dental supply inventory by checking stock to determine inventory levels and placing and expediting orders for supplies.
  • Measured and recorded vital statistics by taking patients' blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
  • Ensured regulatory compliance by closely monitoring changes in laws, regulations, and industry best practices, updating policies accordingly.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses while maintaining service quality and efficiency standards.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration on key projects by establishing clear communication channels and fostering a culture of teamwork among employees.
  • Enhanced team productivity by developing and delivering comprehensive training programs for new hires and existing staff members.
  • Assessed risk factors within the organization''s operations framework, developing mitigation plans to minimize potential losses or disruptions in service delivery.
  • Reduced errors in financial transactions by implementing robust reconciliation procedures and regular audits.
  • Improved communication between departments through the implementation of effective collaboration tools and regular interdepartmental meetings.
  • Maintained high levels of data security with the implementation of strict access controls, encryption protocols, and ongoing employee training on cybersecurity best practices.
  • Evaluated the performance of back office staff members through regular feedback sessions and annual reviews, identifying areas for growth and development opportunities.
  • Implemented inventory control systems that minimized waste while ensuring adequate stock levels were maintained at all times for seamless business operations.
  • Promoted a positive work environment through active engagement with employees, fostering a culture of open communication and mutual respect.
  • Received purchase orders and processed invoices for payment.
  • Supervised processing of orders, order tracking and delivery of goods
  • Organized company functions and events to improve employee morale.
  • Hired, trained and on-boarded new team members and conducted evaluations to boost performance.
  • Scheduled and led regular meetings with staff to review progress and acknowledge achievements.
  • Ordered office supplies and maintained supplier contacts in database.
  • Designed and implemented office policies and enforced standards.
  • Completed special projects through planning, guidance and tracking metrics.
  • Worked with IT department to address technology issues and shortfalls.
  • Created reports, presentations and other materials for executive staff.
  • Hired, managed, developed and trained staff, established and monitored goals, conducted performance reviews and administered salaries for staff.
  • Oversaw appointment scheduling and itinerary coordination for both clients and personnel.
  • Completed bi-weekly payroll for 17 employees.
  • Performed radiographic examinations accurately while adhering to safety guidelines; ensuring proper diagnosis support for dentists.
  • Handled emergency situations calmly and efficiently, contributing to positive outcomes under pressure.
  • Built highly-efficient administrative team through ongoing coaching and professional development opportunities.
  • Performed general chair-side duties for general dentistry, endo procedures, and oral surgery.
  • Educated patients on dental hygiene, pre-surgical instructions and post-surgical care.

Lead Registered Dental Assistant

Sonja S. Sommers D.D.S,.
02.2016 - 05.2020
  • Improved patient satisfaction by providing efficient and accurate dental assistance during various procedures.
  • Educated patients on dental hygiene, pre-surgical instructions and post-surgical care.
  • Acted as a liaison between dentist, insurance providers, and patients for smooth billing processes and coverage inquiries.
  • Organized community outreach initiatives for oral health education, promoting dental care awareness and increasing practice visibility.
  • Implemented digital record-keeping systems, improving organization and accessibility of patient information.
  • Collaborated with dentists to develop comprehensive treatment plans, enhancing patient outcomes.
  • Prepared and arranged instruments, medications, and required materials for dental procedures.
  • Cleaned and sanitized dental tools and equipment, straightened treatment rooms, and restocked supplies to prep for next patient and maintain health and safety practices.
  • Documented patient dental health information, medical history, and vital signs for future reference.
  • Prepared patient x-rays and images for dentist review.
  • Prepared and sterilized instruments and materials for use by dentists.
  • Managed inventory of dental supplies, reducing costs by optimizing order frequency and amounts.
  • Gathered detailed medical history from patients before beginning any treatment plan which contributed towards more effective treatments.
  • Conducted regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper function and longevity of tools.
  • Maintained dental supply inventory by checking stock to determine inventory levels and placing and expediting orders for supplies.
  • Performed general chair-side duties for general dentistry, endo procedures, and oral surgery.
  • Maintained strict sterilization protocols, ensuring a safe and sanitary environment for patients and staff.
  • Helped dentists restore teeth by applying permanent and temporary fillings and crowns.
  • Created dental impressions used for diagnostics, opposing models and study casts to make crowns, bridges, and other dental prosthetics.
  • Successfully assisted dentist by performing four-handed dentistry and other chair-side duties.

Lead Registered Pediatric Dental Assistant

Neda Oromchian D. D. S.
01.2010 - 09.2016
  • Educated parents on preventative measures such as proper brushing techniques, flossing habits, and nutritional choices that contribute positively to their child''s oral health.
  • Maintained a clean, safe environment in the treatment rooms, adhering to stringent sterilization protocols.
  • Improved patient comfort by providing educational materials and addressing their concerns regarding dental procedures.
  • Contributed to practice growth by delivering exceptional customer service, resulting in increased patient satisfaction and referrals.
  • Facilitated better communication between parents and providers through clear explanations of dental treatment plans and procedures.
  • Built rapport with young patients by engaging them in age-appropriate conversation during visits to alleviate anxiety or fear surrounding dental appointments.
  • Continuously updated knowledge of pediatric dentistry best practices through ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Enhanced office efficiency by maintaining accurate patient records and scheduling appointments according to dentist availability.
  • Took dental images following strict patient protection rules, applying lead aprons.
  • Monitored patient comfort and safety during dental procedures.
  • Exposed, developed and mounted dental x-rays.
  • Designed dental report card to explain patient dental health status and treatment plans.
  • Prepared and arranged instruments, medications, and required materials for dental procedures.
  • Helped dentists restore teeth by applying permanent and temporary fillings and crowns.
  • Created dental impressions used for diagnostics, opposing models and study casts to make crowns, bridges, and other dental prosthetics.

Lead Registered Periodontal Assistant

Mercedes A. Heitman D.D.S. MS.
08.2007 - 03.2010
  • Improved patient comfort by providing thorough explanations of periodontal procedures and answering questions with patience and empathy.
  • Maintained inventory of dental supplies and equipment, ensuring adequate stock levels were available for all procedures and minimizing downtime due to shortages.
  • Performed thorough post-operative care instructions with patients following surgical treatments to prevent complications and promote proper healing.
  • Reduced stress levels for anxious patients using calming techniques such as guided relaxation or distraction methods before beginning any procedure or examination.
  • Provided exceptional chairside assistance during surgical procedures, promoting a safe and comfortable environment for patients.
  • Advanced professional knowledge by attending continuing education courses on new technologies and techniques in periodontal care, applying learning to daily practice.
  • Ensured adherence to OSHA regulations regarding infection control protocols within the office, maintaining a clean and safe environment for both staff members and patients alike.
  • Participated in community outreach events promoting oral health awareness and the importance of regular dental care, further establishing the practice as a trusted resource within the community.
  • Assisted periodontist in performing complex treatments, contributing to patients'' improved oral health and overall wellbeing.
  • Maintained accurate patient records, tracking progress and documenting necessary information for effective treatment planning.
  • Increased case acceptance rates by clearly explaining treatment options to each patient, allowing them to make informed decisions about their oral health care choices.
  • Set appointments and made follow-up calls.
  • Recorded patients' health histories, documented current symptoms, and pulled up records from prior visits for dentists to view and evaluate.
  • Measured and recorded vital statistics by taking patients' blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
  • Educated patients on dental hygiene, pre-surgical instructions and post-surgical care.

Registered Dental Orthodontic Assistant

Rael Bernstein D.D.S.
02.2006 - 11.2007
  • Prepared patient for orthodontist and performed simple tasks such as tightening braces and conducting preliminary examinations.
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills while educating patients on oral hygiene practices specific to their orthodontic treatments.
  • Took x-rays, photographs, and impressions of patients' teeth and mouth.
  • Provided exceptional chairside assistance to orthodontist during complex procedures such as bracket placement and adjustments, aligner fittings, and appliance installations.
  • Increased overall patient satisfaction by promptly addressing any discomfort or concerns related to their treatments.
  • Assisted in fabricating custom orthodontic appliances tailored to individual patient needs.
  • Enhanced practice efficiency by maintaining well-organized inventory of orthodontic supplies and equipment.
  • Poured and shaped molds from impressions and trimmed molds in grinder.
  • Improved patient comfort by efficiently assisting with orthodontic procedures and providing clear explanations of treatment plans.
  • Managed emergency situations calmly, providing immediate care when necessary before escalating to the orthodontist if needed.
  • Promoted positive patient experiences by building rapport and addressing concerns during appointments.
  • Collaborated effectively with other team members to ensure smooth workflow within the practice.
  • Reduced appointment wait times with efficient room setup and breakdown between patients.
  • Taught patients strategies for boosting oral hygiene, controlling plaque, and protecting tooth enamel from long-term damage.
  • Contributed to a welcoming and professional office environment by maintaining cleanliness and adhering to all safety protocols.
  • Ensured high-quality patient care through strict adherence to infection control protocols and sterilization procedures.
  • Contributed to significant increase in patient referrals by delivering exceptional care and building strong patient relationships.
  • Assisted orthodontists in applying braces, which led to successful treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
  • Prepped examination rooms, sterilized equipment and instruments and maintained appropriate tray setup.
  • Contributed to successful treatment outcomes by accurately taking dental impressions, X-rays, and intraoral scans.
  • Maintained detailed progress notes for each patient to support continuity of care throughout their treatment plan.

Dental Assistant

Louie Lymchayseng D.D.S, D.M.D.
03.2003 - 04.2005
  • Maintained a clean and sterile work environment to prevent cross-contamination and infection.
  • Sanitized trays, instruments, and surfaces for clean dental office setting and patient safety.
  • Provided chairside assistance during examinations, improving dentist efficiency and patient satisfaction.
  • Performed x-rays safely while adhering to radiation safety guidelines, ensuring high-quality diagnostic images for dentists'' evaluations.
  • Assisted dentists, hygienists, and other personnel by handing appropriate tools and supplies needed for procedures.
  • Contributed to office organization by maintaining accurate patient records and updating files regularly.
  • Facilitated patient education on oral hygiene practices, contributing to improved dental health.
  • Monitored patient comfort and safety during dental procedures.
  • Prepared and arranged instruments, medications, and required materials for dental procedures.
  • Educated patients on dental hygiene, pre-surgical instructions and post-surgical care.
  • Measured and recorded vital statistics by taking patients' blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.

Education

No Degree - Dental Assisting Certificate Program

Santa Rosa Junior College (Vocational Certificate)
Santa Rosa, CA
09-2006

Skills

  • Local anesthetic proficiency
  • Orthodontic treatment assistance
  • Periodontal therapy
  • Team collaboration
  • HIPAA compliance
  • Infection control proficiency
  • Sterilization techniques
  • Staff training and development
  • Oral surgery preparation
  • Restorative dentistry
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Restorative procedures
  • Dental procedure assistance
  • Oral surgery
  • Patient counseling
  • Restorative dentistry support
  • OSHA regulations
  • Pediatric dental care
  • Medical records management
  • Dental impression specialist
  • Periodontics
  • Patient care management
  • Dentrix proficiency
  • Dental terminology
  • Dental staff support
  • Procedure support
  • Instrument preparation
  • Radiography safety
  • Surgical setup
  • Oral health education
  • Chair-side support
  • Taking X-rays
  • Infection control procedures
  • Chairside assistance
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication
  • Organizational skills
  • Active listening
  • Instrument tray preparation

Accomplishments

  • Mentored over 15 dental assistants.

Certification

  • Licensed 2007 (Current), [Dental Assisting Career Certificate] - 2006
  • Radiation Coronal Polishing-2007
  • CPR/BLS (Current)
  • Invisalign Course (Invisalign)-2010
  • Oral Sedation Dentistry Course - 2009
  • Successful Soft Tissue Grafting Course (Dentsply)-2009
  • Extraction Curse (Ogram System)-2009
  • Dental Implantology Course (ADIA)-2009


Languages

English
Full Professional

Timeline

Lead Registered Dental Assistant/Back Office Manager

Petaluma Health Center
09.2023 - 10.2024

Lead Registered Dental Assistant

Sonja S. Sommers D.D.S,.
02.2016 - 05.2020

Lead Registered Pediatric Dental Assistant

Neda Oromchian D. D. S.
01.2010 - 09.2016

Lead Registered Periodontal Assistant

Mercedes A. Heitman D.D.S. MS.
08.2007 - 03.2010

Registered Dental Orthodontic Assistant

Rael Bernstein D.D.S.
02.2006 - 11.2007

Dental Assistant

Louie Lymchayseng D.D.S, D.M.D.
03.2003 - 04.2005

No Degree - Dental Assisting Certificate Program

Santa Rosa Junior College (Vocational Certificate)

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