KNHC Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist Job Description

Kickapoo Nation Health Center

Position Summary

The Dental Hygienist provides preventive dental care, patient education, oral health screenings, cleanings, and clinical support services for patients of the Kickapoo Nation Health Center. This position works under the supervision of the Dentist and supports the overall mission of improving oral health outcomes for the community. The Dental Hygienist must provide care in a professional, compassionate, culturally respectful, and confidential manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care and Preventive Services

• Perform dental prophylaxis, scaling, polishing, fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive dental hygiene services within the scope of practice.
• Conduct oral health assessments, periodontal charting, medical history reviews, and dental screenings.
• Take and process dental radiographs as permitted by state law and clinic policy.
• Identify signs of oral disease, decay, periodontal concerns, and other dental health issues, and report findings to the Dentist.
• Assist with treatment planning and follow-up care as directed by the Dentist.
• Provide chairside support and clinical assistance when needed.

Patient Education

• Educate patients and families on proper oral hygiene, brushing, flossing, nutrition, tobacco cessation, and preventive dental care.
• Provide culturally appropriate education to children, adults, elders, and families.
• Encourage regular dental visits and support patient understanding of treatment recommendations.
• Participate in community oral health education, outreach events, school screenings, and prevention programs as assigned.

Documentation and Compliance

• Accurately document patient care, treatment provided, findings, education, and follow-up recommendations in the dental record.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, clinic policies, and applicable dental regulations.
• Follow infection control, sterilization, OSHA, CDC, and clinic safety standards.
• Ensure dental instruments, equipment, and treatment areas are properly cleaned, stocked, and prepared.
• Assist with quality assurance, audits, reporting, and compliance activities as requested.

Clinic Operations and Team Support

• Work collaboratively with Dentists, Dental Assistants, PRC, medical staff, front office staff, and other clinic departments.
• Assist with scheduling, patient flow, recall lists, no-show follow-up, and continuity of care as needed.
• Support dental program goals, productivity, patient satisfaction, and community health initiatives.
• Maintain dental supplies and notify appropriate staff when inventory or equipment needs arise.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Dentist, Clinic Director, or designee.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited Dental Hygiene program required.
• Current Dental Hygienist license in the State of Kansas required.
• Current CPR/BLS certification required or ability to obtain within required timeframe.
• Dental radiology certification, if required by state law or clinic policy.
• Previous experience in a dental clinic, Tribal health clinic, IHS facility, or community health setting preferred.
• Must be able to pass required background checks and meet all employment requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of dental hygiene practices, preventive care, periodontal care, and oral health education.
• Knowledge of infection control, sterilization, OSHA, CDC, and dental safety standards.
• Ability to provide compassionate and culturally respectful care to patients of all ages.
• Strong communication and patient education skills.
• Strong documentation, organization, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a dental care team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow HIPAA requirements.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use electronic dental or health record systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive hand and wrist movements.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry supplies or equipment as needed.
• Prolonged periods of clinical work, computer use, and patient care may be required.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a dental clinic setting with exposure to dental instruments, equipment, infectious materials, bodily fluids, chemicals, and sterilization products. The employee must follow all safety, infection control, and personal protective equipment requirements.

Indian Preference

Indian Preference may apply in accordance with applicable Tribal and federal laws.