Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist

Functions or scope of assigned duties: Sets up operatory for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover. Handles instruments safely, accurately, and efficiently. Perform dental prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance procedures using hand and ultrasonic instruments, to include gross debridement, curettage and scaling & root planning, tooth polishing & application of topical fluoride solutions. Cleans dental prostheses, fixed and removable. Manages dental recall system, referring patients to the doctor for additional care when needed. Applies desensitizing and sealant materials. Administers localized antimicrobial agents in periodontal pockets when indicated. Makes impressions for fluoride carrier trays. Administers topical and/or local anesthetic agents (per state license). Accomplishes all procedures within standard infection control protocols. Conducts head and neck examinations and complete intraoral inspection of the hard and soft tissue and seeks consultation with dentist to assess abnormal findings. Keeps operatory supplied with all necessary equipment, instruments and disposable supplies needed for the proper treatment of patients. Provides patient education appropriate to the veteran's needs and oral condition. Prepares and provides individual and group oral health care instruction to inpatients, outpatients, and caregivers. Exposes prescribed radiographs. Images are characterized by diagnostic quality, accurately oriented and exposed. Dental imaging safety techniques are utilized, and retakes are minimized. Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory. Instruments are properly prepared for sterilization by SPD standards. Maintains integrity of instruments with proper routine sharpening and maintenance per manufacture instructions. Instruments are prepared in a manner that does not delay clinical care. Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in exposing images. Wears appropriate protective attire and assure that the patient is provided eye protection during procedures. Assists patients in scheduling appointments via VA scheduling software. Assists in filling gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations and failed appointments. Charts findings, treatment plans, and treatment provided in patient records. Accurately codes for type of treatment administered, electronically, by way of VA charting system.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4pm

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized