Dental Hygienist at Houston's Pediatric Dentistry

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Dental Hygienist plays a critical role in delivering preventive dental care while supporting efficient clinical operations and exceptional patient experiences. Working collaboratively with the dentist, Clinical Manager, and clinical team, this position focuses on patient education, oral health assessment, and adherence to the practice’s clinical, safety, and compliance standards.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Perform comprehensive dental cleanings, including removal of plaque, tartar, and stains.
• Assess patients for signs of oral disease, document findings, and communicate concerns to the dentist.
• Take, process, and interpret dental radiographs (X-rays) in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Apply preventive treatments such as fluoride and dental sealants.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene, preventive care, and overall oral health.
• Review, update, and maintain accurate patient medical and dental histories, treatment notes, and records.
• Administer local anesthetics, nitrous oxide, or other agents as permitted by state regulations and practice policy.
• Support dentists during procedures within the hygienist’s scope of practice.
• Ensure patient comfort through clear communication, empathy, and professional chairside manner.
• Maintain strict compliance with infection control, sterilization, OSHA, HIPAA, and universal precaution protocols.
• Assist with operatory setup, equipment care, and clinical inventory management.
• Collaborate with the Clinical Manager to support efficient patient flow and consistent clinical standards.
• Communicate effectively with clinical and front office teams to ensure coordinated patient care.
• Support front office operations as needed, including patient flow, scheduling support, or check-in/check-out assistance during peak times.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and continuing education to support professional growth and practice improvement.
• Contribute to a positive, patient-centered, and team-oriented work environment.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned to support daily operations and evolving practice needs.

Qualifications & Experiences:

• Maintain all required licensure, certifications, and continuing education in accordance with state regulations.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and flexibility in a fastpaced clinical environment.
• Work collaboratively with leadership and clinical team members to support practice goals and high standards of patient care.
• Team members are expected to uphold the culture outlined in the SDB Handbook, with a focus on our core values and any additional responsibilities as defined