Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist is responsible for providing preventive dental services, oral health education, and periodontal care to patients in accordance with New York State regulations, organizational policies, and professional standards. The Dental Hygienist works collaboratively with dentists, dental assistants, and other healthcare professionals to promote optimal oral health outcomes and ensure high-quality patient care.

Responsibilities

1. Prepare treatment rooms and equipment in accordance with infection control standards, OSHA requirements, and organizational policies.

2. Welcome, prepare, and educate patients regarding dental hygiene procedures and oral health maintenance.

3. Review and document patient medical and dental histories, vital signs, medications, and relevant health information.

4. Perform dental prophylaxis, including removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from teeth and beneath gingival margins.

5. Conduct periodontal assessments, including full-mouth periodontal charting and probing as directed by the supervising dentist.

6. Obtain and process dental radiographs in accordance with New York State regulations and organizational protocols.

7. Screen patients for oral diseases and abnormalities, including periodontal disease and oral cancer.

8. Apply fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive therapies as authorized by law and organizational policy.

9. Provide oral hygiene instruction and patient education regarding disease prevention, plaque control, nutrition, and home care techniques.

10. Assist in the maintenance of dental records and ensure accurate and timely documentation within the electronic dental record system.

11. Clean, sterilize, sharpen, maintain, and organize dental instruments and equipment.

12. Monitor inventory levels of dental supplies and notify appropriate personnel regarding replenishment needs.

13. Assist with emergency dental situations and maintain current CPR certification.

14. Adhere to HIPAA, patient confidentiality requirements, and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

15. Participate in departmental meetings, training programs, and continuing education activities.

16. Support organizational outreach, community events, health fairs, and oral health promotion initiatives as assigned.

17. Maintain professional licensure and certifications required to perform the essential functions of the position.

18. Ability to travel between sites and work all shifts when assigned

19. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Dental Director, Supervising Dentist, or senior leadership.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum one (1) year of clinical dental hygiene experience preferred.
• Experience in a community health center, FQHC, pediatric, or public health setting preferred.
• Graduate of an accredited Dental Hygiene Program.

Licensure/Certification

• Current New York State Dental Hygienist License required.
• Current CPR/BLS Certification required.