Dental Hygienist

ENHANCE DENTAL•Prague, OK

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Dental Hygienists conduct initial patient screenings, clean teeth (e.g. remove plaque) and advise patients on oral health and preventative care. Dental Hygienists also help dentists decide treatments for teeth or gum diseases and handle dental emergencies.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Associate degree or higher from a dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA)
State-certified dental hygienist license

Nice To Haves

Expanded functions preferred if not covered by license
Local Anesthesia

Responsibilities

Conducting patient screening procedures, such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting, perio-charting, and taking blood pressure and pulse
Taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays)
Perform local anesthesia and administer nitrous oxide
Removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth
Applying preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)
Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing, and nutritional counseling)
Counseling patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health
Making impressions of patient's teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists to evaluate patient treatment needs)
Identifying conditions like gingivitis, caries, or periodontitis
Preparing operatories by sterilizing instruments and moving equipment into place
Calling patients to maintain the schedule
Monitor and order dental supplies as needed
Performing documentation and office management activities
Ability to run a double hygiene schedule with an assistant
Providing support to dentists and other staff as needed
Maintaining OSHA and HIPPA compliance
Other job duties as assigned