Dental Hygienist

Job Summary The Dental Hygienist provides preventive dental care, patient education, and assists with dental treatments within a community health setting, focusing on underserved populations. They perform routine cleanings, screenings, and apply preventive treatments while also educating patients on oral hygiene and promoting overall health. Supervisory Responsibilities This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. Essential Job Functions / Responsibilities Patient Care Initial, periodic, and emergency examinations Prophylactics Perio scaling Root planning Fluoride application Sealant application Radiographs Impressions of teeth Construction of fluoride trays, mouth guards With proper training and certification; administering local anesthetic (novacane) Recementing temporary crowns Placing temporary fillings Taking x‑ray film exposures Developing and mounting films Provide assistance to the Dentist as appropriate Records Document clinical activities and relevant patient care information in dental records as per dental practice and health center protocols. Maintain records and manage patient recall notices for dental examinations and treatment as per protocols or request. Education to Patients Health education/teaching Provide dental health education and instructions to patients for oral hygiene, dental health, treatment plan review, and community participation. Participate in the planning and implementation of community‑based health education initiatives, including but not limited to formal and informal public presentations, screening clinics, and newsletter articles. Infection Control Clean and sterilize dental instruments as per protocol. Quality Assurance Participate in the development, implementation, audit, and continuous evaluation and improvement of protocols, services, and programs provided by the dental service and/or the health center. The above statements are intended to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job‑related tasks other than those stated in this description. #J-18808-Ljbffr