Dental Hygienist

Job Title

An employee in this classification may perform the following duties examines teeth of patients and makes referrals to dentist if special professional care is indicated, applies topical fluorides and performs dental prophylaxis in the prevention of dental disease, records findings and maintains records on dental status and services rendered to patients, instructs patients on the proper care of teeth and recommends measures for the prevention of dental disease, and assists the Dentist in planning and carrying out dental health programs. Patient care duties are usually performed independently chairside with review of a Dentist upon completion. Patients are primarily pediatric dental patients. Work requires daily contact with patients and their family members. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday 7:30-5:30 and Thursday 7:30-5:00. Off Friday.

Job Duties

Examines teeth of patients and makes referrals to the Dentist if special professional care is indicated. Reviews medical history, cleans, scales, and polishes teeth. Applies topical fluorides and performs dental prophylaxis in the prevention of dental disease; records findings and maintains records on dental status and services rendered to patients. Instructs patients on the proper care of teeth and recommends measures for the prevention of dental disease. Assists the Dentist in planning and implementing dental health programs; evaluates, develops, and distributes educational materials. Cleans and sterilizes dental instruments; prepares and arranges instrument trays; explains procedures to patients. Takes routine X-rays and photographs; processes and mounts film. Maintains a variety of records; prepares variety of reports. Applies sealants and fluoride. Operates standard dental hygienist equipment including but not limited to hygiene loupes, air/water syringes, high volume evacuator, saliva ejectors, autoclave, dental instruments, and x-ray equipment. Operates computer, scanner, calculator, and other standard office equipment incident to maintaining records. Participates in ongoing training as required. Additional Job Duties Schedules appointments. Performs duties of a Dental Assistant as assigned. Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of and skill in the application of the techniques and practices of dental hygiene. Considerable knowledge of technical procedures and office protocol. Considerable knowledge of dental equipment, instruments, and procedures. Knowledge of educational theory and techniques in preparing and disseminating dental health educational information. Ability to secure the cooperation of the patient and to elicit required information. Ability to follow oral and written instructions and to interpret and maintain records and reports. Ability to deal tactfully and professionally with the public and to exercise good judgment in appraising situations and making decisions. Skill in the performance of technical services to patients. Skill in customer service excellence, teamwork and collaborative conflict resolution. Skill in operating standard dental equipment including but not limited to hygiene loops, air/water syringes, high volume evacuator, saliva ejectors, autoclave, dental instruments, and x-ray equipment. Ability to maintain records, inventories, and patient charts. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, professional and support personnel, community and civic groups, the Dentist, and the general public. Ability to establish and follow work procedures and prepare and maintain accurate records and reports.

Qualifications

Associate's degree in dental hygiene from an appropriately accredited institution; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Licensed to practice as a dental hygienist in North Carolina. Stanly County is an Equal Opportunity Employer