Pay: $55.00 - $65.00 per hour
Job description:
Job Overview
Join our dedicated public health team as a Dental Hygienist specializing in community-based oral health initiatives! In this vital role, you will deliver comprehensive dental hygiene services to diverse populations, focusing on prevention, education, and early intervention. Your expertise will help improve oral health outcomes in underserved communities while promoting good dental practices and enhancing overall well-being. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in public health through compassionate patient care and collaborative teamwork. Build your own schedule with a very supportive administrative team with over 25 years experience in the dental field with a company that has been providing care for over 16 years in Maine!
Responsibilities
- Perform thorough dental cleanings, including scaling and polishing, to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Conduct patient assessments by reviewing medical and dental histories, taking vital signs, and evaluating oral health status.
- Provide patient education on proper oral hygiene techniques, dietary habits, and preventive care strategies tailored to pediatric and adult populations.
- Maintain accurate medical records in electronic medical record (EMR) system Open Dental.
- Follow infection control protocols using aseptic techniques to prevent cross-contamination and ensure a sterile environment.
- Educate patients on dental terminology and procedures to foster understanding and engagement in their treatment plans.
- This position focuses on providing exceptional care to adults in community settings and nursing homes.
Since 2009, Tooth Protectors, Inc. has supported hygienists working independently throughout Maine by functioning as an established administrative and operational support vendor for community-based dental hygiene services.
Our model is designed for independent 1099 contractors who value autonomy, flexibility, and public health accessibility while still having the support structure needed to succeed.
Tooth Protectors manages:
✔ Scheduling and contracts
✔ Credentialing assistance
✔ Claims processing and administrative support
✔ Compliance guidance and risk protection
✔ Community and school partnerships
✔ Operational support systems
We offer multiple contractor tiers based on your preferred level of independence, operational needs, experience, and public health knowledge.
Available models may include:
- Full support model with assistant support for equipment transportation, supply management, chart entry assistance, and operational workflow support
- Independent provider model utilizing Tooth Protectors equipment and supply rentals with full administrative support included
- Fully independent contractor model where providers utilize their own equipment while Tooth Protectors maintains contracts, scheduling, billing support, and administrative operations
Current opportunities may include:
✔ School-based programs
✔ Nursing home assessments and treatment
✔ Adult community care
✔ Mobile/community-based settings
✔ Clinical services within the Tooth Protectors office
We are seeking hygienists who:
- Are adaptable and solution-oriented
- Value independent workflow and flexibility
- Believe in public health accessibility and outreach
- Are comfortable serving diverse and underserved populations
- Understand the realities and limitations within community healthcare systems while striving to improve patient access and outcomes
We strive to maintain provider schedules well in advance whenever possible to support continuity of care, contract stability, and financial reliability for our contractors.
While we work hard to accommodate provider preferences and flexibility, some established schedules and routes are already maintained by longstanding providers. Transparency regarding available opportunities, reimbursement structures, and scheduling expectations is important to our organization.
If you are interested in independent public health contracting opportunities with an established support system behind you.
Experience
- Previous experience working in a dental office or clinic setting is highly preferred, especially within community health programs.
- Knowledge of infection control standards, anatomy, medical terminology, and HIPAA regulations is required to ensure safe and compliant practice.
- Strong communication skills for patient education, documentation review, and collaboration with healthcare teams are vital for success. Embark on a rewarding career where your skills directly contribute to healthier communities! We are committed to supporting your professional growth while fostering an environment of compassion, innovation, and excellence in public health dentistry.
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: On the road