Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist The Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native beneficiaries. Working under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, the hygienist supports the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model and helps meet clinical performance indicators. Location: Taos-Picuris Health Center, Taos, NM Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Key Responsibilities Clinical Services -Perform dental prophylaxis, scaling and root planning, oral debridement, and periodontal assessments. -Conduct oral cancer screenings and perform radiographic procedures. -Apply topical fluorides, pit and fissure sealants, and other preventive agents. -Administer local anesthesia and deliver locally delivered antimicrobials. -Identify and chart conditions of decay and periodontal disease. -Fabricate temporary restorations and clean/polish removable dental appliances. -Assist with dental and medical emergencies within the scope of practice. Patient Care and Education -Prepare treatment rooms and patients according to established protocols. -Provide oral hygiene instruction, plaque control guidance, and post-treatment instructions to patients. -Respond to patient questions and concerns professionally. Documentation and Administrative Support -Document all patient encounters in the IHS Dentrix system on the date of service. -Maintain strict patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA and the Privacy Act. -Ensure all chart deficiencies are completed within 24 hours of notification. -Maintain dental instruments through proper cleaning, sterilization, and sharpening. -Monitor and conserve dental supplies and equipment. Minimum Qualifications -Education: Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited institution. -Licensure: Current, active, and unrestricted Dental Hygienist license from any U.S. state or territory. -Experience: At least three (3) years of dental hygiene experience, including work with both adult and pediatric populations. -Certifications: oCurrent radiography (X-ray) certification. oAuthorization to administer local anesthetics (if applicable by state law). oCurrent Basic Life Support (BLS) Compliance and Requirements -Background Check: Must successfully complete a background investigation, including e-QIP, Indian Child Protection Act (P.L. 101-630), and character investigations. -Training: Must complete Information Systems Security Awareness (ISSA), HIPAA, and Privacy Act training -Citizenship: Must be US Citizen $110,000 - $115,000 a year Compensation details: 110000-115000 Yearly Salary PI472e1cb6f58a-37528-40267700 #J-18808-Ljbffr Medium