Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist

Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) is a Tribal health organization committed to elevating the lives of the people we serve. At KANA, employees are more than staff members; they are part of a mission-driven team dedicated to meaningful work, community impact, and long-term professional growth.

Position Overview

Under direct, indirect, and general supervision, the Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive oral hygiene services in accordance with the highest professional and clinical standards. This role focuses on prevention, periodontal case management, and patient education while supporting a team-based approach to integrated healthcare. The Dental Hygienist delivers high-quality care to improve oral health outcomes for patients across KANA's service areas, including village communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Supports the organization's mission, goals, quality standards, and patient-centered medical home philosophy while demonstrating KANA's core values of Courtesy, Caring, Respect, Sharing, and Pride
• Upholds KANA's Code of Ethics by conducting all professional activities with honesty, integrity, fairness, and respect
• Promotes patient-centered care by improving access, continuity, and engagement in oral health services
• Performs comprehensive preventive dental hygiene services, including periodontal assessments and treatment of periodontal disease
• Applies and administers oral health medications and preventive treatments in accordance with clinical guidelines
• Collaborates as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team to provide coordinated, comprehensive patient care
• Obtains, records, and updates patient medical and dental histories; alerts the dentist to any changes affecting treatment plans
• Maintains treatment recall systems and supports continuity of care
• Ensures timely referral to dental specialists when advanced periodontal conditions are identified
• Assists with monitoring and maintaining referral processes within and outside the IHS system in coordination with case management and care coordination staff
• Provides oversight of hygiene-related work performed by ancillary staff and ensures compliance with established Dental Clinic policies and procedures
• Supports the Dental Director with operational needs and maintenance of Dental Clinic functions
• Completes accurate documentation and charting in accordance with KANA Dental Clinic policies and regulatory standards
• Participates in quality assurance and quality improvement activities, including audits, evaluations, and process improvements related to dental hygiene services
• Promotes preventive oral health through patient education and community outreach activities
• Assists with OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control compliance within the Dental Department
• Maintains professional communication with patients, colleagues, and staff, delivering high-quality customer service
• Explains periodontal treatment plans and alternatives clearly and with empathy
• Coordinates and participates in community outreach programs and committee involvement as assigned
• Provides accurate coding and billing information and supports insurance pre-authorizations as needed
• Maintains licensure and participates in continuing education to stay current with advancements in dental hygiene practice
• Travels regularly by small plane to village communities to provide dental hygiene services based on operational needs

Qualifications

• Graduate of a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Dental Association, resulting in a Certificate, Associate, or Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene
• Must hold an unrestricted license to practice dental hygiene in the State of Alaska

Work Schedule

KANA's standard work schedule is 37.5 working hours per week, typically consisting of 7.5 paid working hours per day plus a one-hour unpaid lunch break (total of 8.5 hours on site per day).

Our Values

KANA's work is guided by Courtesy, Caring, Respect, Sharing, and Pride. We seek team members who demonstrate these values in how they deliver care, collaborate with colleagues, and serve the community.

Life In Kodiak

Located on beautiful Kodiak Island, this role offers the opportunity to build meaningful community connections while experiencing Alaska's unique coastal lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and close-knit community.