Temporary Dental Hygienist

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry•Mount Pleasant, NC

About The Position

Provide dental hygiene coverage on an as-needed basis in a supportive clinical setting with a full schedule, an experienced doctor team, and the tools and resources needed to deliver excellent patient care. The role involves preventive and periodontal care, patient education, co-diagnosis and treatment planning, discussing costs and financing, accurate documentation, and maintaining a safe, clean operatory. Reliability, patient engagement, teamwork, clinical ownership, clear communication, and professional presentation are essential.

Requirements

Active state dental hygiene license in good standing.
Current CPR/BLS certification.
Regular, predictable, and punctual attendance.
Engaged, focused patient care and a positive, professional attitude; ability to accept feedback.
Ability to communicate openly and work collaboratively with the care team.
Ability to diagnose and treat periodontal disease according to the standard of care.
Ability to build patient trust, explain care clearly, and recommend treatment.
Comfort discussing costs and financing clearly and confidently.
Ability to meet the stated physical requirements with or without reasonable accommodation, including extended sitting, repeated bending and reaching, fine motor control and sustained grip, repetitive hand and arm movements, close-range vision, clear hearing and speech, lifting and carrying supplies and equipment up to 25 pounds, wearing protective equipment for the full shift, and working safely around clinical exposures.
Maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene appropriate for close patient contact, including avoiding strong odors and fragrances.

Nice To Haves

Local anesthesia certification (listed as required or preferred).
Experience presenting treatment plans and discussing patient financing.
Experience with Denticon practice management software.
New graduates are welcome, if applicable.

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 oral health and explain the reasons behind recommended care.
Co-diagnose with the dentist and develop treatment plans for periodontal and restorative care.
Present treatment plans chairside in plain language, explaining what care is needed and why.
Discuss fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options with patients without pressure.
Administer local anesthesia where certified and permitted by state law.
Apply fluoride, sealants, and adjunctive therapies.
Ensure each patient leaves with their next recare visit scheduled.
Document accurately and completely in patient records.
Maintain the operatory and follow OSHA and infection-control standards.
Communicate with doctors, assistants, and front-desk staff and support the success of the office.
Maintain professional hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs each shift.