JHC Dental Hygienist

Jamestown Sklallam Tribe•Sequim, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Jamestown Healing Clinic (JHC) is seeking a Dental Hygienist who is passionate about providing exceptional oral healthcare in a supportive, trauma-informed environment. In this role, you'll work closely with patients affected by substance use disorders, delivering preventive dental services, education, and compassionate care while promoting long-term oral health and overall wellness. If you're looking for a meaningful career where you can make a lasting impact on your community, we'd love to hear from you.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent.
Current Washington State Dental Hygienist License.
Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid certification for Healthcare Providers.
Complete 15 hours of continuing education annually.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
Knowledge of: Dental and oral anatomy Oral physiology and histology Radiology and nutrition Preventive dentistry principles and techniques Dental instruments and materials
Skill and dexterity in performing scaling, curettage, and root planing.
Comfortable treating periodontally involved patients.
Ability to educate and motivate patients on oral health and disease prevention.
Basic computer proficiency with the ability to learn dental scheduling and electronic charting software.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to travel locally and regionally as needed.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to successfully pass a criminal background investigation.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with patients affected by substance use disorders.
Experience or training in trauma-informed care.
Knowledge of harm reduction principles and practices.
American Indian/Alaska Native hiring preference applies.

Responsibilities

Examine patients' oral cavities, including the mouth, throat, and pharynx, documenting the condition of teeth and surrounding tissues.
Refer patients to the dentist for decay, defective fillings, oral abnormalities, periodontal disease, and other concerns.
Apply desensitizing agents and other topical medications as appropriate.
Perform comprehensive oral prophylaxis, including: Seating and draping patients. Supragingival and subgingival scaling using cavitron and universal scaling instruments. Removing calculus deposits, accretions, and stains. Polishing teeth using rubber prophy cups and prophy paste. Applying topical fluorides, anticariogenic agents, and occlusal sealants. Cleaning and polishing removable dental appliances.
Administer topical and local anesthesia as permitted.
Expose, develop, and mount dental radiographs, including bitewing, panoramic, and periapical images.
Interpret radiographs to identify calculus, decay, oral abnormalities, and periodontal bone loss while utilizing X-rays as patient education tools.
Record medical histories and treatment provided.
Maintain dental instruments and equipment in optimal working condition.
Disinfect operatories and sterilize instruments in accordance with Dental Clinic Policies & Procedures, JST Public Health & Safety Plan, and the Tribe's Exposure Control Plan.
Educate patients individually and in groups using models, displays, brochures, videos, and other educational materials.
Demonstrate proper brushing, flossing, and periodontal care techniques.
Provide care using a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the impact of past trauma on health behaviors.
Tailor communication and treatment plans to meet each patient's individual needs.
Integrate harm reduction principles into patient care.
Educate patients about the effects of substance use on oral health and strategies to reduce associated risks.
Address patient questions and concerns with empathy and respect.
Provide resources and referrals for additional healthcare services when appropriate.
Follow all Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Jamestown Healing Clinic policies and procedures, including HIPAA, safety standards, and infection control practices.
Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.