Wendy Merz
Livonia,MI
Summary
Highly experienced Surgical Dental Assistant with over 20 years in oral surgery and pediatric dentistry. Expertise in infection control, nitrous oxide and IV general sedation, and emergency patient care. Proficient in sterile setup, suctioning, charting, and post-operative instructions, ensuring seamless support during extractions, implants, and sedation procedures.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Surgical Dental Assistant
Trillium Oral Surgery
Plymouth, Michigan
10.2006 - Current
- Assisted oral surgeons with extractions, implants, and other surgical procedures at Trillium Oral Surgery.
- Managed suctioning equipment during oral surgery procedures to maintain a clear field.
- Monitored vital signs during treatment to ensure patient safety.
- Administered nitrous oxide sedation to help relieve anxiety during treatment.
- Prepared treatment rooms with sterile instruments, supplies, and surgical setups.
- Sterilized dental instruments following infection control and safety protocols.
- Followed infection control protocol when handling contaminated items according to OSHA guidelines.
- Recorded patient charts, medical histories, and procedure notes in dental systems.
- Supported patient comfort with clear instructions and calm preoperative guidance.
- Coordinated postoperative care instructions and follow-up scheduling for oral surgery patients.
- Delivered detailed post-operative care instructions to patients for effective recovery. to patients regarding care of oral tissues and wound healing.
- Compounded medications prescribed by the dentist for use during dental procedures.
- Captured dental x-rays to assist in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning..
Pediatric Dental Assistant
Olde Orchard Pediatric Dentistry
Novi, Michigan
10.2000 - 10.2006
- Assessed pediatric patients at Olde Orchard Pediatric Dentistry for chairside support
- Assisted dentist during cleanings, fillings, and sealant procedures
- Assisted the dentist during restorations, crowns, bridges, root canals, extractions, and scaling procedures.
- Reassured children and parents with calm, friendly communication
- Educated parents on proper oral hygiene techniques for children.
- Took digital x-rays and updated patient charts accurately
- Operated suction equipment during dental procedures, materials, and tray setup.
- Greeted patients upon arrival at the office with courtesy and professionalism.
Education
GED -
Churchill
Livonia, MI12-1992
Skills
- Oral surgery procedures
- Implant placement assistance
- Patient sedation techniques
- Nitrous oxide sedation
- Sedation monitoring
- Suture removal
- Sterilization procedures
- Infection control
- Dental imaging
- Chairside assistance
- Pediatric dental care
- Crisis response training
- Certified in CPR/AED
- Recovery support
- DAANCE Certified
- HIPAA compliance
Timeline
Surgical Dental Assistant
Trillium Oral Surgery
10.2006 - Current
Pediatric Dental Assistant
Olde Orchard Pediatric Dentistry
10.2000 - 10.2006
GED -
Churchill