Dental Hygienist

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

About South Boston Community Health Center

South Boston Community Health Center (SBCHC) is a mission-driven, community-based health organization committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and accessible care to individuals and families. We serve a diverse patient population and are dedicated to advancing health equity, collaboration, and excellence in care. Our employees play a vital role in supporting our mission and the communities we serve.

Work Environment & Culture

SBCHC offers a fast-paced, team-oriented healthcare environment that values respect, collaboration, and continuous learning. Employees work closely with interdisciplinary teams and are expected to demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and a commitment to patient-centered care. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive workplace where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.

Position Summary

The Dental Hygienist plays a vital role in delivering high-quality oral health care services to patients of South Boston Community Health Center. This position is responsible for providing preventive dental care, supporting diagnosis and treatment planning, and promoting long-term oral health through patient education and clinical excellence.

Working closely with dentists and the broader care team, the Dental Hygienist ensures a safe, comfortable, and efficient patient experience while adhering to clinical, regulatory, and organizational standards. This role requires strong clinical expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing compassionate care to a diverse patient population in a fast-paced community health setting.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive dental cleanings, including scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatments
• Conduct patient assessments, including reviewing medical histories, taking vital signs, and evaluating periodontal health
• Take and develop dental radiographs in accordance with safety and infection control protocols
• Assist dentists during exams and procedures using four-handed dentistry techniques
• Provide patient education on oral hygiene, preventive care, and post-treatment instructions
• Maintain accurate and complete patient records in the electronic health record (EHR) system (e.g., Dentrix or Eaglesoft)
• Ensure proper documentation and support accurate coding for billing purposes
• Follow all infection control, sterilization, and OSHA safety standards to maintain a safe clinical environment
• Collaborate with dental providers and care teams to support coordinated patient care, including pediatric dentistry as needed
• Support clinic workflow and efficiency while maintaining a high level of patient care and professionalism
• Participate in ongoing training and continuing education to remain current with best practices

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program
• Current Massachusetts Dental Hygienist license in good standing
• Certification in CPR/BLS required
• Strong knowledge of dental hygiene practices, anatomy, and infection control procedures
• Experience taking dental radiographs and performing clinical assessments
• Proficiency with dental practice management systems such as Dentrix or Eaglesoft
• Excellent communication and patient engagement skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented healthcare environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a community health center or public health setting
• Experience providing care to pediatric populations
• familiarity with diverse patient populations and culturally responsive care
• Bilingual skills preferred but not required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and clinical accuracy
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple patients and tasks efficiently
• Commitment to patient-centered and culturally sensitive care
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
• Adaptability and flexibility in a fast-paced clinical setting

Benefits & Perks

SBCHC offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being and work-life balance, which may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, holidays, and sick time.
• Retirement plan options.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Employee assistance programs.
• Other benefits in accordance with employment status and union agreements.

Compliance & Employment Requirements

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and reference checks.
• Proof of COVID-19 and other required vaccinations may be required in accordance with SBCHC policy and applicable laws.
• Selected candidates must meet all licensing, certification, or credentialing requirements applicable to the role.

Equal Opportunity Statement

South Boston Community Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

SBCHC is dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities and creating an environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment.