Dental Hygienist

About Church Health

As a faith-based health care not-for-profit, Church Health believes in caring for one another as we’d all like to be cared for. That’s why we commit every day to making the highest quality health care accessible to more Memphians, especially those facing social and economic challenges—so we can all live our lives with dignity, vitality and joy.

With services that span all ages, including the youngest of us, and that treat the whole person, we make it possible for more Memphians to live fully. Today, with the support of our partners, volunteers and donors, we conduct an average of 60,000 patient visits a year in Memphis and serve as a model for countless communities across the nation.

Job Title: Dental Hygienist

Department: Dental

Reports to: Dental Manager

Classification: Regular, Full-Time, Salaried, Exempt

Work location: Onsite

Starting Salary: $65,553 - $88,689

Job Summary

The Dental Hygienist provides preventive dental care, patient education, and assists the dentist in delivering optimal oral health care.

This position assists the Dentist in the preparation and care of patients by reviewing health histories and medications, examining teeth, the tongue and gums for disease, decay, inflammation, and other issues.

Additionally, this position takes, processes, and mounts x-rays for the Dentist’s exam and gives the patient general information on care and prevention of disease. Other responsibilities include performing dental prophylaxis, scaling/root planning, and full month debridement on patients.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Conduct oral health assessments, including reviewing medical history, performing dental cleanings, scaling, and root planning.
• Take and develop dental radiographs (x-rays) as prescribed by the dentist.
• Apply preventive treatments such as fluoride, sealants, and desensitizing agents.
• Perform periodontal charting and other diagnostic measurements as needed.
• Record and review health histories and current medications.
• Examine patients’ teeth, the tongue and gums, and report evidence of disease, decay, inflammation, or abnormalities and report findings to the Dentist.
• Administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide when permitted by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.
• Use laser therapy for preventive and desensitizing treatment as indicated.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including charting and documenting procedures.
• Ensure compliance with infection control protocols by properly sterilizing instruments and maintaining the cleanliness of treatment rooms.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and other preventive measures.
• Discuss exam findings with patients and recommend follow-up care based on their individual needs.
• Provide instructions for post-treatment care following procedures such as scaling, root planning, and fluoride treatments.
• Assist with the maintenance of dental equipment and materials necessary for hygiene procedures.
• Coordinate with dental assistants and office staff to ensure smooth patient flow and efficient office operations.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Strong clinical skills, including the ability to perform periodontal care, radiographs, and patient assessments.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a focus on patient care and comfort.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and multitask.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Proficient in using computers and basic office equipment.
• Experience with electronic dental record systems.

Education and Experience

• A High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Certification in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration is required.
• Current CPR certification is required.
• Current Dental Hygienist license in the state of Tennessee is required.
• Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year undergraduate degree in a relevant field is preferred.
• 1-3 years of experience is preferred.

Benefits Package

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 11 Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Match
• FSA/HSA Options
• Basic Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The ability to stand or sit for extended periods, bend, reach, have good manual dexterity, maintain good hand-eye coordination, and occasionally lift moderate weights, while also requiring mobility to move between rooms and maneuver in small spaces.

Commitment to Diversity

At Church Health, we are committed to diversity, striving to create a staff that reflects the diverse communities with which we work. We seek individuals of all backgrounds to join our team.