Dental Hygienist

Job purposeDental Hygienists conduct initial patient screenings, clean teeth (e.g. remove plaque) andadvise patients on oral health and preventative care. Dental Hygienists alsohelp dentists decide treatments for teeth or gum diseases and handle dental emergencies.Duties and responsibilitiesConducting patient screening procedures, such as assessment of oral health conditions,review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dentalcharting, perio-charting, and taking blood pressure and pulseTaking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays)Perform local anesthesia and administer nitrous oxideRemoving calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teethApplying preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health;(e.g., tooth brushing, flossing, and nutritional counseling)Counseling patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral healthMaking impressions of patient's teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists toevaluate patient treatment needs)Identifying conditions like gingivitis, caries, or periodontitisPreparing operatories by sterilizing instruments and moving equipment into placeCalling patients to maintain the scheduleMonitor and order dental supplies as neededPerforming documentation and office management activitiesAbility to run a double hygiene schedule with an assistantProviding support to dentists and other staff as neededMaintaining OSHA and HIPPA complianceOther job duties as assignedHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate degree or higher from a dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA)State-certified dental hygienist licenseExpanded functions preferred if not covered by licenseo Local AnesthesiaWorking conditionsDental practices run at a fast pace and dental hygienists will be required to keep up with the flowof doctors and patients.Physical requirementsDental Hygienists will be required to:Use their hands and feet to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.Repeat the same movements.Bend or twist their body.Sit for long periods.Stand for long periods.Lifting up to 50 poundsReports to: Area Director of Operations/Operations Manager & Operating DoctorDirect reports: None. #J-18808-Ljbffr