Dental Hygienist - Tufts Special Care Dental Clinics

Tufts University•Groton, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Dental Hygienist works at Tufts Special Care Dental Clinics in Groton, Massachusetts, providing patient-centered preventive and therapeutic oral health care. Tufts Special Care Dental Clinics is a network of seven outpatient clinics serving approximately 7,000 developmentally disabled patients across Massachusetts. The clinics operate under Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and partner with the Massachusetts Departments of Public Health and Developmental Services. Care is also provided in operating room settings at three affiliated hospitals. The clinics serve as a teaching venue for General Practice Residents and fourth-year dental students. The position performs clinical assessments, periodontal treatments, radiographs, fluoride applications, and patient education; updates medical histories and maintains accurate clinical documentation; and collaborates with the dental team on coordinated care and treatment planning. It also supports clinic operations, infection control, compliance, supplies, equipment, scheduling, and a welcoming patient experience. Travel to other clinics is required. This is a part-time position of 28 hours per week, Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The pay range is $49.30 to $68.10, with a midpoint of $58.70. Salary depends on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; new hires can generally expect pay between the minimum and midpoint.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene, or knowledge and experience typically acquired through that degree.
1–3 years of clinical dental hygiene experience.
Intermediate proficiency in dental practice management software and Microsoft Office applications.
Massachusetts State License as a Dental Hygienist.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Experience treating patients with developmental, behavioral, or medical complexities.

Responsibilities

Review and update patients’ medical histories.
Provide preventive and therapeutic oral health care, including clinical assessments, periodontal treatments, fluoride applications, radiographs, and patient and caregiver education.
Collaborate with the dental team to support treatment planning and coordinated care.
Maintain accurate and detailed clinical documentation.
Manage hygiene and clinical supplies and maintain equipment.
Maintain infection control protocols and ensure OSHA and HIPAA compliance.
Provide backup assistance with appointment confirmations and scheduling.
Collaborate with staff and trainees to support clinic operations and a positive patient experience.
Maintain a professional and welcoming environment and demonstrate patient-centered values.
Travel to other clinics as required.
Perform other duties as required.