Public Health Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist is a valued member of the Health Care Partners of South Carolina dental team, providing preventive and therapeutic oral healthcare services to patients of all ages. Working collaboratively with dentists, dental assistants, medical providers, and other members of the care team, this position promotes oral health through patient education, disease prevention, clinical treatment, and early intervention. As part of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), the Dental Hygienist is committed to delivering compassionate, culturally competent, and patient-centered care to underserved and medically vulnerable populations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Perform comprehensive dental hygiene assessments, prophylaxis, periodontal therapy, fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive services within the scope of practice.

Obtain, process, and evaluate dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and provider orders.

Assess patients for signs of oral disease and communicate findings to the supervising dentist.

Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, nutrition, tobacco cessation, and disease prevention to promote lifelong oral health.

Assist in the development and implementation of individualized preventive care plans.

Collaborate with dentists, dental assistants, and other healthcare providers to coordinate comprehensive patient care.

Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).

Adhere to OSHA, CDC, and infection prevention protocols while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized clinical environment.

Monitor and maintain dental instruments, equipment, and supplies, ensuring proper sterilization and functionality.

Participate in community outreach activities, school-based programs, oral health education, and other initiatives that support the HCPSC mission.

Maintain patient confidentiality and protect health information in accordance with HIPAA and organizational policies.

Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

Graduate of an accredited Dental Hygiene program required.

Current South Carolina Dental Hygienist license in good standing required.

Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Minimum of one (1) year of clinical dental hygiene experience preferred.

Experience working in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), community health center, or public health setting preferred.

Experience using Electronic Health Record (EHR) and dental practice management systems preferred.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of preventive dentistry, periodontal therapy, dental radiography, infection prevention, and patient education principles.

Knowledge of OSHA, CDC infection prevention guidelines, HIPAA regulations, and South Carolina dental practice standards.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to educate and build rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Proficiency in Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, dental practice management software, and digital radiography.

Ability to work collaboratively with dentists, dental assistants, medical providers, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams while maintaining a compassionate, patient-centered approach.

Health Care Partners