To treat and educate patients in the control and prevention of oral disease such as carries (cavities) and periodontal (gum) disease through proper oral hygiene and regular professional care.
Performs dental prophylaxis, removing deposits (plague, tartar, stain) from the teeth.
Applies preventive agents such as fluoride and sealants to the tooth surfaces.
Takes and develops necessary radiographs.
Examines teeth and gums for signs of disease or decay.
Charts such conditions for further diagnosis and treatment by dentist and for proper patient record maintenance.
Instructs patients in proper oral hygiene.
Accurately reports all procedures to bookkeeper for proper billing to patient or third-party payers.
Assists dentist, as required, in further treatment of teeth and gums.
Maintain patient confidentiality as per Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 and complete HIPAA compliance training.
Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene and Licensure in State of Michigan.
Twenty-four hours of biennial continuing education including four hours' HIV-AIDS and three hours' CPR training.
Competence in operation of standard dental equipment: cavitron, prophyjet, X-ray, radiograph processor, panelipse, dental chair and unit, sterilizers, hand scalers, and curettes.
Must have strong dental knowledge.
Must have excellent dental skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with other areas and personnel with the Health Clinic.
Must have excellent dental education and presentation skills.
Must have knowledge of OSHA Blood borne Pathogens Standard and adherence to safety rules and professional standards.
Must have outstanding written and verbal communications skills.
Good time management and organizational skills are critical.
Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated patience, tact, and respect.
Exceptional detail and follow-up skills.
Work requires proficiency in computer literacy, preferably in Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, and other Microsoft office products and database applications.
Ability to quickly evaluate alternatives and decide on a plan of action.
Uses good judgment in interpreting guidelines, in adapting department procedures, or in recommending approaches or solutions for specific problems.
Must have knowledge of principles of evaluating program effectiveness and quality assurance.
Must have knowledge of principles and practices of dental and administration gained through education and experience.
Fully responsible for being knowledgeable about Dental Hygienist's role and responsibility.
Must be willing and able to pass a background investigation and a drug and alcohol urinalysis as a condition of employment.
Adherence to strict company policy in regard to confidentiality is a must.
At least one year of experience as a full time dental hygienist preferred.
Experience and skill in designing and conducting staff training and in-services.