Temporary Dental Hygienist

About the Role

We are looking for a dependable hygienist to provide coverage on an as-needed basis. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys flexibility while delivering exceptional patient care. When needed, you'll step into a supportive environment with a full schedule, an experienced doctor team, and the tools and resources necessary to provide excellent clinical care.

What You Will Do

• Provide prophylaxis, periodontal maintenance, and scaling and root planing
• Complete full periodontal charting and assess periodontal health at every appropriate visit
• Take and review radiographs and intraoral images
• Educate patients on their oral health and explain the “why” behind recommended care
• Co-diagnose with the dentist and build treatment plans for periodontal and restorative care
• Present treatment plans chairside, explaining what the patient needs and why, in plain language
• Discuss fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options with patients, helping them say yes to care while the clinical conversation is still fresh
• Administer local anesthesia [where certified and permitted by state]
• Apply fluoride, sealants, and adjunctive therapies
• Make sure each patient leaves with their next recare visit scheduled
• Document accurately and completely in the patient record
• Maintain your operatory and follow OSHA and infection control standards

What We Need from You

Reliability. Regular, predictable, on-time attendance is an essential function of this job. When a hygienist is out, a full day of patients loses their care.

Presence. You are engaged and focused on the patient in your chair.

A good attitude. You stay positive and professional on busy days and take feedback well.

Team first. You communicate openly with doctors, assistants, and the front desk, and you help the whole office succeed.

Clinical ownership. You diagnose and treat periodontal disease by the standard of care, not by what is easiest.

Patient connection. You build trust, explain clearly, and are comfortable recommending treatment. Patients accept care when it comes from the clinician they trust.

Comfort with money conversations. You can talk about cost and financing clearly and confidently, without pressure and without handing it off.

Professional presentation. We hold a high standard for personal hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs every shift.

Qualifications

• Active state dental hygiene license in good standing
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Local anesthesia certification [required / preferred]
• New graduates welcome [if applicable]
• Experience presenting treatment plans and discussing patient financing is a plus
• Experience with Denticon practice management software is a plus
• Physical requirements
• The following are essential to this role and must be met with or without reasonable accommodation:
• Sit for extended periods in a clinical operator position
• Bend, lean, and reach over patients repeatedly throughout the day
• Use both hands with fine motor control and sustained grip for scaling and instrumentation
• Perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements for the length of each appointment
• See clearly at close range, including small detail, depth, and color
• Hear and speak clearly to communicate with patients and the care team while masked
• Lift and carry supplies and equipment up to [25] pounds
• Wear required protective equipment for the full shift

Work with exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials, following safety protocols

Maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene standards appropriate for close patient contact, including avoiding strong odors and fragrances