Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist Opportunity

The Department of Oral Medicine has an outstanding opportunity for a Dental Hygienist to join their team.

Reporting to the Dental Clinic Supervisor the Dental Hygienist is responsible for providing dental hygiene care to patients with disabilities and special health care needs in the DECOD clinic two days per week and provide care in the Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Clinic one half day per week. The RDH will remove deposits and stains from teeth by performing prophylaxis, debridement, scaling and root planning or periodontal maintenance as diagnosed by a dentist and instruct patients or caregivers on proper preventative care and good oral health practices. The RDH will assist with behavioral supports as directed by dental providers.

The salary information provided below is for a full-time position and will be prorated for this part-time, 50% FTE opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

Procedures and Operations (70%)

• Prepare tray setups for dental procedures.
• Greet patients and help patients feel comfortable during and after dental treatment.
• Obtain and review patients' health history and/or treatment records.
• Assess for, utilize, and consult with the supervising dentist on appropriate facilitation techniques including behavioral supports, pharmacological supports, and medication immobilization and protective stabilization.
• Communicate with patients and their representatives' using principles of patient autonomy and understanding the roles of patient representatives including family members, paid caregivers, and guardians, including appropriate attainment of informed consent.
• Document the health record with accuracy and sensitivity using appropriate disability language.
• Review health history with patients, caregivers, and guardians.

Other Clinical Duties (25%)

• Comply with PPE policies.
• Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment.
• Participate in quality assurance and quality improvement for clinics.
• Assist with documentation in patients' electronic health records.
• Instruct students in the appropriate role of dental hygiene and dental hygiene techniques in the delivery of patient care; Orient new staff and students regarding clinic procedures and policies.

Additional Duties (5%)

• Schedule and confirm appointments
• Patient no show follow-ups
• Conduct team meetings/staff reviews for complex cases.
• Perform other duties as provided in the dental laws of the State of Washington.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited school of dental hygiene, AND a current license to practice as a dental hygienist in the State of Washington.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional Qualifications

• State-specific Radiation Safety training
• CPR/BLS Certification
• Additional/Expanded functions certifications as required by law

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience treating patients with disabilities or special health care needs is desirable as the candidate will evaluate overall oral health for people with physical, medical, developmental, or cognitive conditions which limit their ability to receive routine dental care

About the Team

The DECOD (Dental Education in Care of Persons with Disabilities) Program is a leader in the field of oral health care for patients with disabilities. Goals of the DECOD Program include: 1) improve the oral health of patients and contribute to their well-being and oral function; 2) improve access to oral health care for persons with disabilities by educating and training an oral health workforce; and 3) promote research, outreach, and interprofessional education, and practice related to special care dentistry. Our core values include compassion and respect for our patients, high moral and ethical standards, and a commitment to evidence-based and technically excellent clinical practices. We serve a diverse patient population and are equally committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum: $93,120.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum: $133,212.00 annual

Other Compensation: -

Benefits: For information about benefits for this position, visit

Shift: First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?: This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent): 50.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit: SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.