CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENIST

Dental Hygienist

The Division of Community Health Services (CHS) is seeking a Clinical Dental Hygienist. CHS provides public health, primary care, and dental services in health departments throughout the state. Under general or direct supervision, the Health Services Dental Hygienist is responsible for clinical dental hygiene duties in a public health facility. Applicants should be customer-focused, self-motivated, team-oriented, and willing to travel as needed, throughout the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Performs routine dental hygiene procedures such as prophylaxis, debridement, scaling and root planing and local anesthesia administration, fluoride varnish and SDF application, and sealant placement, according to department protocols.
• Performs oral cancer screening and conducts oral health assessments including periodontal evaluations and screenings.
• Applies desensitizing agents to treat dental sensitivity.
• Applies antimicrobial agents to treat periodontal infections.
• Takes dental X-rays for diagnostic purposes and disinfects operatory and sterilizes instruments after every dental patient treatment.
• Assists in the management and maintenance of equipment and supplies including autoclave, ultrasonic cleaner, and dental unit water lines and other tasks, as assigned.
• Provides appropriate post treatment and education for patients.
• Educates patients on proper oral hygiene practices, preventive care, and on the link between oral health and overall health.
• Ensures accomplishment of daily productivity goals in alignment with the Tennessee Department of Health Model Dental Clinic guidelines. Manages priorities and individual efficiency to assist in meeting identified goals for encounters and Relative Value Units.
• Documents patient information according to standards of care.
• Completes patient dental health records (electronic and paper).
• Collaborates with dentists on treatment plans and referrals.
• Identifies and provides referrals for patients with urgent dental needs.
• Offers guidance on tobacco cessation, nutritional counseling and HPV vaccination to promote oral and systemic health.
• Supports fluoridation programs and other population-wide dental health strategies.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements: Currently licensed as a Registered Dental Hygienist and experience equivalent to one year of clinical dental hygiene practice. This position requires a current drivers license, CPR certification and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation background check.

Details: This is a contract position with the State that is funded through FY2031.