Dental Hygienist

Dental HygienistUnder the general supervision of a qualified dentist, the hygienist is responsible for assessing patient needs to enhance and maintain the periodontal status utilizing established dental hygiene protocols and procedures. This includes the taking of radiographs, medical/dental health assessments, scaling and rooting planning, patient education, preventive clinical services such as sealant and fluoride varnish application, health promotion activities, and the maintenance of an active patient recall system. Hygienists are also the primary educators of the dental team and as such are expected to keep current with oral health trends, be competent in speaking before audiences, and developing educational material for ages 1 year old to adults. Positions are for full time salaried employment, but the expectation is that providers may put in over 40 hours per week performing clinical, program, and recordkeeping functions. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, patient access is a primary consideration influencing individual work schedules and productivity/ patient encounter expectations. Hygienists are expected to function as part of the dental team that enhances the expeditious flow of patients through their appointment while maximizing the workflow efficiency of the dentist. Clinics are open Monday – Saturday, are staffed by multiple dentists, and assignments may include working at multiple locations during the work day. The Center is also a dental residency site and some supervision and mentoring can be expected. Allocation of time between patient care, outreach programs, and dental residency supervision is determined by the Dental Director. An aspect of the outreach program is working at the dental trailer at Kamaile school and the dental mobile van that visits local schools and sites to treat patients. Outreach events occur outside of work hours and the schedule of the hygienist may be modified to attend these events.Education/Experience:Diploma from an accredited dental hygiene program recognized by the Hawaii State Board of Dental ExaminersCurrent license to practice as a dental hygienist in the State of HawaiiValid driver’s licenseAn Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer