Dental Hygienist

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

The Dental Hygienist is responsible for providing oral hygiene treatment, education, and preventive dental care to patients.

This position requires proficiency in a variety of dental hygiene services, including patient assessment, scaling and polishing teeth, application of preventive agents, and providing oral health education.

The Dental Hygienist works collaboratively with the dental team to ensure patients receive comprehensive dental care in a compassionate and efficient manner.

Supervision Exercised

This position does not supervise other employees but may direct the work of dental assistants as needed during patient care.

Essential Functions

The Dental Hygienist will perform the following duties personally or through collaboration with dental assistants and other dental professionals.

• Conduct oral health assessments of patients, including review of medical history, examination of the oral cavity, and identification of signs of disease or abnormalities.
• Perform dental prophylaxis, including scaling and polishing teeth to remove plaque, calculus, and stains.
• Apply preventive materials such as fluoride and sealants to help prevent tooth decay.
• Take and develop dental radiographs (X-rays) for diagnostic purposes.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, diet, and the impact of lifestyle choices on oral health.
• Chart conditions of decay and disease for diagnosis and treatment by the dentist.
• Assist in the development and implementation of individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the dentist and other dental staff.
• Maintain and sterilize dental instruments and equipment in compliance with infection control standards.
• Document patient care, treatment plans, and progress notes accurately in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
• Collaborate with the dental team to ensure a smooth patient flow and efficient scheduling of appointments.
• Participate in outreach programs and community education efforts to promote oral health awareness.
• Keep up-to-date with current dental hygiene practices and technologies through continuing education and professional development activities.
• Follow all safety protocols and comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience

• Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program.
• Current licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) in the state of practice.
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience in dental hygiene preferred.
• Certification in administering local anesthesia and nitrous oxide (if applicable).

Key Competencies

• Clinical Skills: Proficiency in performing dental hygiene procedures, including scaling, polishing, radiography, and application of preventive agents. Ability to identify signs of oral disease and collaborate with the dentist on treatment plans.
• Patient Education: Ability to effectively communicate oral health information and preventive care practices to patients of all ages and backgrounds.
• Infection Control: Knowledge of sterilization techniques and infection control protocols to ensure patient and staff safety.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport with patients, provide compassionate care, and work effectively as part of a dental team.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize tasks, and ensure the smooth operation of dental hygiene services within the practice.

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional dental journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations. Ability to effectively communicate with patients, staff, and other healthcare professionals.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations, such as dosage calculations for fluoride applications and measurement conversions for charting purposes.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply clinical judgment and critical thinking skills in assessing patient needs, identifying oral health conditions, and determining appropriate interventions.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Current licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH).
• Certification in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
• Certification in administering local anesthesia and nitrous oxide (if applicable).

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, with proper medical documentation/clearance if applicable.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, typical of a dental office setting.

This job description includes the major duties and responsibilities of the job but is not inclusive of every task inherent in the job. In addition, it may be occasionally necessary for employees to be assigned tasks not specifically covered by their permanent assignment. Employees will be expected to comply with reasonable requests from their supervisor.