Dental Hygienist

Job Description

Job Description

The Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native beneficiaries. Working under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, the hygienist supports the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model and helps meet clinical performance indicators.

Location: Taos-Picuris Health Center, Taos, NM

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Services

-Perform dental prophylaxis, scaling and root planning, oral debridement, and periodontal assessments.

-Conduct oral cancer screenings and perform radiographic procedures.

-Apply topical fluorides, pit and fissure sealants, and other preventive agents.

-Administer local anesthesia and deliver locally delivered antimicrobials.

-Identify and chart conditions of decay and periodontal disease.

-Fabricate temporary restorations and clean/polish removable dental appliances.

-Assist with dental and medical emergencies within the scope of practice.

Patient Care and Education

-Prepare treatment rooms and patients according to established protocols.

-Provide oral hygiene instruction, plaque control guidance, and post-treatment instructions to patients.

-Respond to patient questions and concerns professionally.

Documentation and Administrative Support

-Document all patient encounters in the IHS Dentrix system on the date of service.

-Maintain strict patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA and the Privacy Act.

-Ensure all chart deficiencies are completed within 24 hours of notification.

-Maintain dental instruments through proper cleaning, sterilization, and sharpening.

-Monitor and conserve dental supplies and equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

-Education: Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited institution.

-Licensure: Current, active, and unrestricted Dental Hygienist license from any U.S. state or territory.

-Experience: At least three (3) years of dental hygiene experience, including work with both adult and pediatric populations.

-Certifications:

oCurrent radiography (X-ray) certification.

oAuthorization to administer local anesthetics (if applicable by state law).

oCurrent Basic Life Support (BLS)

Compliance and Requirements

-Background Check: Must successfully complete a background investigation, including e-QIP, Indian Child Protection Act (P.L. 101-630), and character investigations.

-Training: Must complete Information Systems Security Awareness (ISSA), HIPAA, and Privacy Act training

-Citizenship: Must be US Citizen