Dental Hygienist I

San Jose Clinic•Houston, TX

About The Position

Performs dental measures designed to preserve teeth and prevent the spread of oral disease, provides oral health education to patients, and maintains the patient care environment.

Requirements

Degree from accredited Dental Hygiene School.
Successful completion of the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners exam for Dental Hygiene.
Hold and maintain valid State of Texas Dental Hygienist Registration and CPR-BLS certification.
Must have a minimum of 1-2 years’ experience in the dental hygiene profession.
Possesses excellent knowledge of dentistry procedures.
Knowledge of insurance and eligibility requirements.
Can demonstrate excellent organizational skills, multi-tasking and effective use of time.
Ability to deal professionally, courteously and efficiently with public and all levels of the organization.
Ability to operate computer, copier fax, and scanners
Can demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.
Can demonstrate effective customer relation skills, working with diverse populations, often in stressful fast paced environments.
Bilingual in English/Spanish required.

Responsibilities

Record medical and dental histories, vital signs and updated demographic information in patient’s chart
Perform duties according to dental treatment plan as provided by assigned dentist
Assess the nature and extent of dental, periodontal and associated conditions and pathology in dental outpatients
Perform full mouth periodontal probing or PSR on initial and appropriate subsequent visits
Record findings; notes bleeding, mobility, furcation involvement and tissue tone in patient’s chart
Able to perform more than 2 deep cleanings per day
Provide clinical services, health education, and after-care instructions to improve and maintain oral health such as brushing, flossing, and other plaque control methods
Ensure that required/applicable forms and documents are presented, explained and completed
Maintain instrumentation for dental hygiene treatment by sharpening, sterilizing and selecting instruments
Notify appropriate staff of patient requests which need follow-up: referrals, and appointments
Perform tobacco use screening and initiate cessation support when appropriate
Proficient in intraoral camera use
Able to take digital radiographs
Experience in Eaglesoft or similar Dental Health Record System
Must possess general working knowledge of computer usage (word, excel, internet browser, outlook, etc.)
Assist with or institute emergency measures for sudden adverse incidents during treatment of patients
Maintain unit, supplies and submit requisitions in a timely manner
Prepare operatory for patient care daily by cleaning, sanitizing, stocking supplies and maintaining equipment
Must be a self-starter, self-motivated individual, that doesn’t require constant supervision
Must be a team player, and able to work closely with other health professionals (Ex: Medical, Pharmacy, Nurse Practitioner)
Provide chair-side assistance to dentist in the performance of procedures, complex treatments and special tests
Complete patient scheduling duties and cross train to provide backup coverage to the dental Patient Access Specialist
Follows all HIPAA and OSHA guidelines and regulations, including assisting HIPAA and OSHA Officers in ensuring compliance
Maintains confidentiality of patient information/records at all times
Maintains established San José Clinic policies, procedures, objectives, quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control
Implements job responsibilities in a manner that is consistent with the San José Clinic Mission and Code of Conduct and is supportive of San José Clinic cultural diversity objectives
Participates in team meetings/activities and supports the goals of the team, department, and San Jose Clinic
Performs other duties as assigned.