Dental Hygienist

Position Summary
The Delaware Department of Health is seeking a qualified and compassionate Dental Hygienist to provide preventive and clinical dental hygiene services to patients. The Dental Hygienist will work as part of a healthcare team to promote oral health, provide patient education, and deliver quality dental hygiene care in accordance with established clinical standards, policies, and applicable regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform dental hygiene assessments, examinations, cleanings, and preventive services.
• Provide scaling, polishing, fluoride treatments, and other preventive dental procedures within the scope of practice.
• Obtain and document patient medical and dental histories.
• Take and develop dental radiographs as permitted by licensure and departmental protocols.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene, preventive care, nutrition, and overall oral health.
• Identify oral health concerns and communicate findings to the dentist or appropriate healthcare provider.
• Maintain accurate and timely patient records and clinical documentation.
• Follow infection control, sterilization, and workplace safety procedures.
• Assist with dental screenings and community/public health programs as assigned.
• Provide compassionate care to patients from diverse backgrounds and age groups.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable Delaware Department of Health policies.
• Participate in team meetings, training, quality improvement initiatives, and other departmental activities as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Current and valid Dental Hygienist license in the State of Delaware or eligibility to obtain/maintain Delaware licensure.
• Graduate of an accredited dental hygiene program.
• Current CPR/BLS certification, if required by the department.
• Experience in a clinical, community health, public health, or government healthcare setting is preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

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