Kahley Dutton
Pickens
Summary
Reliable and adaptable professional with extensive experience in healthcare operations. Demonstrated ability to enhance team productivity through effective training and streamlined processes. Ready to support organizational goals and improve patient care through strong attention to detail and collaboration.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Associate
Family Dental Health
12.2021 - 01.2026
- Supported daily operations through effective communication and collaboration with team members.
- Assisted in data entry and management using company-specific software and tools.
- Conducted research to support project initiatives and inform decision-making processes.
- Maintained organized documentation for projects, ensuring easy access to information.
- Provided administrative support by coordinating schedules and managing correspondence.
- Developed knowledge of company products and services to make suggestions according to customer needs.
- Reviewed invoices, payment requests, and expense reimbursements prior to approval.
- Provided exceptional customer service, leading to high levels of satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.
- Contributed to positive work environment by advocating for employee engagement initiatives and recognition programs.
- Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
- Educated staff on organizational mission and goals to help employees achieve success.
Orthodontic Assistant
Family Dental Health/ Carolina Family Ortho
05.2017 - 12.2021
- Assisted in orthodontic procedures by preparing treatment rooms and sterilizing instruments.
- Developed patient records and managed appointment scheduling for optimal workflow.
- Educated patients on oral hygiene techniques and post-treatment care instructions.
- Collaborated with orthodontists to ensure accurate appliance fittings and adjustments.
- Monitored inventory levels of dental supplies, placing orders as needed to maintain stock.
- Trained junior staff on clinical procedures and best practices in patient care.
- Prepared patient for orthodontist and performed simple tasks such as tightening braces and conducting preliminary examinations.
- Took x-rays, photographs, and impressions of patients' teeth and mouth.
- Demonstrated strong communication skills while educating patients on oral hygiene practices specific to their orthodontic treatments.
- Provided exceptional chairside assistance to orthodontist during complex procedures such as bracket placement and adjustments, aligner fittings, and appliance installations.
- Maintained detailed progress notes for each patient to support continuity of care throughout their treatment plan.
- 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.
- Set appointments and made follow-up calls.
- Reduced appointment wait times with efficient room setup and breakdown between patients.
- Prepped examination rooms, sterilized equipment and instruments and maintained appropriate tray setup.
- 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.
- Improved practice reputation by consistently receiving positive patient feedback on compassionate and professional care.
- Prepared and sterilized instruments and treatment areas, ensuring safe and hygienic environment for every patient.
Orthodontic Assistant
Catania Orthodontics
07.2011 - 05.2017
- Implemented new office protocols that improved patient flow and reduced wait times.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations and infection control standards within the clinic.
- Improved patient comfort by efficiently assisting with orthodontic procedures and providing clear explanations of treatment plans.
- Contributed to successful treatment outcomes by accurately taking dental impressions, X-rays, and intraoral scans.
- Collaborated effectively with other team members to ensure smooth workflow within the practice.
- Developed comprehensive knowledge of various orthodontic appliances, enabling accurate preparation for each procedure.
- Taught patients strategies for boosting oral hygiene, controlling plaque, and protecting tooth enamel from long-term damage.
- Completed ongoing professional development courses, staying up-to-date on industry advancements for optimal patient care.
- Enhanced team collaboration by actively participating in staff meetings and sharing insights on patient care improvements.
- Streamlined inventory management process, ensuring availability of necessary treatment supplies without overstocking.
- Enhanced patient comfort and cooperation by providing detailed explanations of treatment procedures.
- Prepared patient X-rays and images for review by dentist.
- Prepared and sterilized instruments and materials for use by dentists.
- Sanitized trays, instruments, and surfaces for clean dental office setting and patient safety.
- Assisted dentists, hygienists, and other personnel by handing appropriate tools and supplies needed for procedures.
- Recorded patients' health histories, documented current symptoms, and pulled up records from prior visits for dentists to view and evaluate.
- Exposed, developed and mounted dental x-rays.
- Took x-rays, photographs, and impressions of patients' teeth and mouth.
- Demonstrated strong communication skills while educating patients on oral hygiene practices specific to their orthodontic treatments.
- Ensured high-quality patient care through strict adherence to infection control protocols and sterilization procedures.
- Contributed to a welcoming and professional office environment by maintaining cleanliness and adhering to all safety protocols.
Education
Certificate Program - Dental Assisting
Monroe Community College
Rochester, New York, NY12-2016
High School Diploma -
Tully Central School
Tully, NY05-2011
Skills
- Operations management
- Data analytics
- Analytical thinking
- Quantitative skills
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Organizational skills
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Relationship building
- Self motivation
- Professionalism
- Written communication
Accomplishments
Family Dental Health Employee of the Year x2
Timeline
Business Associate
Family Dental Health
12.2021 - 01.2026
Orthodontic Assistant
Family Dental Health/ Carolina Family Ortho
05.2017 - 12.2021
Orthodontic Assistant
Catania Orthodontics
07.2011 - 05.2017
Certificate Program - Dental Assisting
Monroe Community College
High School Diploma -
Tully Central School