Dental Hygienist

Neighborhood Services Organization•Oklahoma City, OK

About The Position

The Dental Hygienist works with dentists to meet the oral health needs of NSO patients. The role provides preventive dental care, including cleaning and polishing teeth, teaching patients good oral hygiene and aftercare for dental treatments, and supporting dentists during procedures and treatment. The position also includes patient screening, documentation, office management, and assisting with patient care and emergency measures as needed. The schedule is 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with one Saturday per month.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene.
Current dental hygienist license in the state of Oklahoma.
Valid Healthcare Provider CPR certification.
Clearance of a background check and drug screen.
Clear oral and written communication skills.
Patience when assisting the population served.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
The role involves exposure to contaminants, radiation, and disease or infections.
This is a Safety Sensitive Position and is not subject to the protections of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act.

Nice To Haves

Expanded-function authorization for administration of local anesthesia.
Expanded-function authorization for administration of nitrous oxide.
One to three years of experience.
Knowledge of Eaglesoft software.

Responsibilities

Screen patients by assessing oral health, reviewing health histories, conducting oral cancer screenings and head and neck inspections, performing dental charting, and taking blood pressure and pulse.
Remove calculus and plaque from all tooth surfaces under a dentist’s supervision.
Take digital radiographs using snap-a-ray positioners.
Apply preventive materials such as sealants and fluoride.
Teach patients oral hygiene strategies, including tooth brushing, flossing, and nutritional practices.
Counsel patients about nutrition and its impact on oral health.
Provide chair-side assistance to the dentist during periodontal procedures, tests, and complex treatments.
Document dental history and chief complaints, report relevant observations and patient reactions to the dentist and dental team, document lab procedures, and follow up on results.
Perform documentation and office management tasks, including preparing reports, as needed.
Assist with or institute emergency measures in response to sudden adverse developments during patient treatment.
Assist in preparing patient care areas and, as required, in patient admission, transfer, and discharge.