Temporary Dental Hygienist

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry•Mount Pleasant, NC

About The Position

We are looking for a dependable hygienist to provide coverage on an as-needed basis. This temporary role offers flexibility and the opportunity to deliver exceptional patient care in a supportive environment with a full schedule, an experienced doctor team, and the tools and resources necessary to provide excellent clinical care. The hygienist provides preventive and periodontal services, assesses patients’ oral health, takes and reviews diagnostic images, and educates patients about recommended care. The role includes co-diagnosing with the dentist, developing and presenting treatment plans, and discussing fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options. The hygienist also documents care, maintains the operatory, and follows OSHA and infection-control standards. Essential physical requirements include extended periods in a clinical operator position; repeated bending, leaning, and reaching over patients; fine motor control and sustained grip; repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements; close-range vision; clear hearing and speech while masked; lifting and carrying supplies and equipment up to 25 pounds; and wearing required protective equipment for the full shift. The role involves exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials, with safety protocols to be followed. Professional appearance and personal hygiene appropriate for close patient contact are required. Requirements must be met with or without reasonable accommodation.

Requirements

Active state dental hygiene license in good standing.
Current CPR/BLS certification.
Reliability, including regular, predictable, on-time attendance.
Engaged and focused patient care.
Positive and professional attitude on busy days and receptiveness to feedback.
Clinical ownership in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease according to the standard of care.
Ability to build patient trust, explain care clearly, and comfortably recommend treatment.
Ability to discuss costs and financing clearly and confidently, without pressure or handing the conversation off.
Professional hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs each shift.
Ability to meet the stated physical requirements with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Local anesthesia certification; the posting indicates this may be required or preferred.
Experience presenting treatment plans and discussing patient financing.
Experience with Denticon practice management software.

Responsibilities

Provide prophylaxis, periodontal maintenance, and scaling and root planing.
Complete full periodontal charting and assess periodontal health at every appropriate visit.
Take and review radiographs and intraoral images.
Educate patients about their oral health and explain the reasons for recommended care.
Co-diagnose with the dentist and build treatment plans for periodontal and restorative care.
Present treatment plans chairside in clear, plain language.
Discuss fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options with patients.
Administer local anesthesia where certified and permitted by state.
Apply fluoride, sealants, and adjunctive therapies.
Ensure each patient leaves with their next recare visit scheduled.
Document accurately and completely in the patient record.
Maintain the operatory and follow OSHA and infection-control standards.
Communicate openly with doctors, assistants, and the front desk, and contribute to the success of the office.
Maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene standards appropriate for close patient contact.