Dental Hygienist

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dental Hygienist will work with the Dentist to provide care for patients using a individualized oral health regimen.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Included but not limited to the following);

• Prepares treatment room for patient by adhering to prescribed procedures and protocols
• Prepares patient for dental hygiene treatment by welcoming, soothing, seating, and draping patient
• Provides information to patients and employees by answering questions and requests
• Selects materials and equipment for dental hygiene visit by evaluating patients’ oral health
• Patient screening procedures; such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting and taking blood pressure and pulse
• Helps dentist manage dental and medical emergencies by maintain CPR certification, emergency drugs and oxygen supply, and directory of emergency numbers
• Educate patients in appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling and postoperative instructions)
• Documents dental hygiene services by recording vital signs and medical and dental histories; charting in patient records
• Maintains patient confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential
• Maintains a safe and clean environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations
• Protects patience and employees by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols
• Ensures operation of dental equipment by completing preventative maintenance requirements; following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintain equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques
• Maintains dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies
• Conserves dental resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results
• Take and develop radiographs (x-rays)
• Remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth
• Apply preventative materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)
• Make impressions of patients’ teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists to evaluate patient treatment needs)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• A two year certificate program or an Associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an institution accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation and at least two years of experience working as a dental hygienist.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills.
• WORKING CONDITIONS
• Clinical Setting.