Dentist - Special Needs Clinic

We are seeking a full-time, compassionate and skilled dentist to join our Special Care Dentistry team. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to provide high-quality dental care to patients with special needs, including individuals with developmental and physical disabilities, complex medical conditions, and other special health care requirements. This role requires a strong commitment to patient centered care, clinical expertise for special needs patients, patience, adaptability, a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by special needs populations and the ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

Essential Functions (Duties and Responsibilities)

• Conduct comprehensive dental assessments and provide a full range of dental treatments, including preventive care, restorative procedures, emergency dental services and oral surgery.
• Teach, mentor and train dental students and residents, providing high-quality comprehensive care in a comfortable and supportive environment for patients with diverse and complex needs.
• Develop customized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of patients and each patient’s specific medical, psychological, and behavioral challenges.
• Utilize specialized equipment, techniques, and communication methods appropriate for special needs patients.
• Ensure patient comfort and safety, using sedation or anesthesia when necessary, and coordinate with medical professionals for cases requiring hospital-based dentistry.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including other dental and medical specialists including nurses, caregivers, social workers, and other healthcare professionals, to deliver holistic and comprehensive care.
• Engage with family members and caregivers to provide education on oral health maintenance, treatment options, dietary advice, and dental care routines.
• Obtain and maintain hospital privileges to perform dental treatments under general anesthesia for patients whose needs cannot be safely managed in a dental clinic setting.
• Coordinate with hospital staff for scheduling and conducting dental surgeries, ensuring pre- and post-operative care is effectively managed.
• Obtain and maintain certification in IV sedation, ensuring the safe and effective administration of moderate sedation for patients with special needs.
• Administer and monitor IV sedation or coordinate with anesthesiologists when necessary, adhering to all safety protocols and regulations.
• Evaluate patients for appropriate sedation or anesthesia options, considering their medical history and special health needs.
• Maintain accurate patient records, including medical histories, treatment plans, and progress notes.
• Adhere to the standard of care and maintain a calm, patient centered approach treatment regime.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations, including infection control and patient privacy standards.

                                                                                                                                       

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Unrestricted Tennessee dental licensure to practice dentistry and a valid DEA number.
• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited institution.
• Advanced training and/or experience in Special Care Dentistry.
• Knowledge of sedation and anesthesia techniques used in special care dentistry.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage patients, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) /Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification.
• Certification in IV Sedation (or eligibility to obtain certification).
• Hospital privileges (or willingness to obtain hospital credentials).
• Advanced Life Support (ALS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification is preferred.
• Completion of a residency or fellowship in special care or hospital-based dentistry.
• Board certification in Special Care Dentistry or related specialties.
• Experience working with patients with developmental disabilities, cognitive impairments, or complex medical conditions.
• Flexible and adaptable to meet the needs of diverse patient populations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work well in a team-based setting.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to build strong, professional, effective and efficient teams.

Education and Experience:

• Participate in the training of dental students and residents on special care dentistry principles and techniques.
• Stay updated on advancements in special needs dentistry and integrate new techniques into practice.
• Advocate for oral health policies and programs that improve access to dental care for patients with special needs.
• Meharry Medical College is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Environmental Conditions and Physical Demands

• Usual office environment
• Manual dexterity
• Visual and auditory acuity
• Able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods of time