Dental Hygienist - Tufts Special Care Dental Clinics

Overview Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) offers one of the most forward-looking educational environments in dental medicine in the country. Tufts Special Care Dental Clinics (formerly Tufts Dental Facilities for Persons with Special Needs) is a network of seven outpatient clinics that provides dental care to approximately 7,000 developmentally disabled patients in the state of Massachusetts under the umbrella of TUSDM and in partnership with the Massachusetts Departments of Public Health (DPH) and Developmental Services (DDS). In addition to outpatient services, patient care is also delivered in operating room settings at three affiliated hospitals within the state. TSCDC serves as a vital teaching venue for General Practice Residents through the Tufts GPR program and for fourth-year dental students, offering hands‑on experience in treating patients with special needs. What You'll Do The Dental Hygienist plays a vital role in delivering high‑quality, patient‑centered oral health care. This position is responsible for performing comprehensive preventive and therapeutic hygiene services, including clinical assessments, periodontal treatments, radiographs, fluoride applications, and patient education, while ensuring all medical histories and clinical documentation are accurately maintained. Collaborating with the dental team, the Dental Hygienist supports coordinated care, treatment planning, and scheduling to promote optimal oral health outcomes. Through effective communication, clinical expertise, and a commitment to disease prevention, this role contributes to a positive patient experience and the overall effectiveness of dental practice. Review and update medical histories and provide comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral health care, including assessments, periodontal treatments, fluoride applications, radiographs, and patient/caregiver education. Collaborate with the dental team to support treatment planning and maintain precise detailed clinical documentation, ensuring high‑quality patient care. Support clinical operations by managing hygiene and clinical supplies, maintaining equipment and infection control protocols, ensuring OSHA and HIPAA compliance, and providing backup assistance with appointment confirmations and scheduling. Promote smooth clinic operations and a positive patient experience by collaborating with staff and trainees, maintaining a professional and welcoming environment, and demonstrating patient‑centered values that support the clinic's mission. All other duties as required. What We're Looking For Basic Requirements: Associate's Degree Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene. 1‑3 years clinical dental hygiene experience. Intermediate proficiency in dental practice management software and Microsoft Office applications. ADHA – Dental Hygienist – State Licensure Massachusetts State Licence. Travel to other clinics required. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree. Experience in treating patients with developmental, behavioral, or medical complexities. Pay Range Minimum $43.90, Midpoint $52.30, Maximum $60.70. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range. #J-18808-Ljbffr