Dental Hygienist

West Cecil Health Center Inc

10d

About The Position

West Cecil Health Center (WCHC) is seeking a dedicated Registered Dental Hygienist to join our team! WCHC is a thriving nonprofit, community health organization that provides comprehensive and collaborative patient centered healthcare services. Based primarily in. Conowingo, some travel to Elkton may be required. Bilingual is a plus. $2500 sign on bonus Position Summary: The Registered Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who works collaboratively under the general supervision of a dentist and with the dental team to provide high-quality preventive and therapeutic dental care. The hygienist plays a key role in patient education, periodontal care, and early disease detection. This position supports the mission of improving the oral and overall health of a diverse patient population in a community-focused setting. WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY? $2500 Sign-on Bonus Growth and Advancement Opportunities Company Sponsored Events Employee Engagement Committees WCHC offers a compressive benefit package including: 1. Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance 2. Health Reimbursement Arrangement 3. Employer paid Life and AD&D and Disability insurance 4. 401K with employer match 5. Generous Paid Time Off and Volunteer time 6. Paid Holidays 7. Education reimbursement

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Completion of an accredited dental hygienist program
Current state-specific Registered Dental Hygienist licensure
Current CPR required
Proficient knowledge of dentistry procedures and clinic infection control procedures
Proficient in dental terminology
Knowledge of dental codes
Knowledge of Electronic Health Record (EHR)
Proficiency in dental software and basic computer skills
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Must maintain CPR and state dental hygiene license
30 hours of continuing education to maintain dental hygiene license

Nice To Haves

Certification to administer local anesthesia preferred
Bilingual, English/Spanish, is aspirational

Responsibilities

Perform oral prophylaxis, periodontal scaling and root planning, and application of fluoride treatments and sealants as trained, licensed, and assigned
Conduct comprehensive oral health assessments, including charting, periodontal probing, and evaluation of oral tissues.
Assess dental condition and needs of patients using approved patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.
Take and process dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and WCHC protocols.
Assist in identifying conditions such as caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues; refer to the dentist as needed.
Document dental history or chief complaint; record and report pertinent observations and patient reactions to dentists as appropriate
Follow through with oral hygiene procedures in accordance with treatment plans prescribed by the attending dentist. Procedure may include: Prophylaxis, periodontal scaling, root planning, debridement, supra and subgingival scaling and curettage, application of fluoride treatments, and application of protective sealants.
Assist with or initiate emergency measures for sudden adverse developments during the treatment of patients.
Help patients feel comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment
Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, disease prevention, and post-treatment care. Including proper tooth brushing, flossing, nutrition and the need for professional care.
Provide individualized instructions based on patient needs, conditions, and risk factors.
Promote oral health as part of overall wellness and support integration with primary care.
Sterilize instruments and disinfect treatment areas in accordance with OSHA, CDC, and WCHC guidelines
Ensure all dental equipment is cleaned, maintained, and functioning properly.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date clinical records using the electronic health record (EHR) system.
Ensure the operatory is clean, stocked, and ready for patient care.
Ensure all patient records and related documentation are managed and maintained in a timely and accurate manner, and are compliant with all HIPAA and associated regulations and regulatory requirements.
Ensure all tasks provided and associated with patient care, administrative processes, and related duties comply with all regulatory and accreditation standards, as well as WCHC polices and procedures.
Work closely with dentists, dental assistants, and front office staff to ensure efficient patient flow and high-quality care.
Participate in staff meetings, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives.
Uphold and consistently represent the mission, vision, and values of WCHC at all times.
Participate in compliance with the UDS sealant measurement
Enhance the efficiency of the dental office by performing expanded duties as allowable by law and as directed by the dentist.
Ensure effective relationships within and among department staff and other functional areas within WCHC.
Develop favorable relationships with vendors and related external entities.
Bilingual employees: Provide communication and translation assistance to patients within the role scope