Dental Hygienist - General Dentistry Full time Days
About The Position
The Dental Hygienist provides preventive oral healthcare services and patient education in an outpatient dental clinic. The role works collaboratively with dentists and other healthcare professionals to support optimal oral health outcomes, while reflecting Northwestern Medicine’s mission, vision, and values and complying with organizational policies, ethical standards, and applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements. This is a full-time day position consisting of four 10-hour shifts, Monday through Friday, with a stated schedule of 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The position is 40 hours per week (1.0 FTE).
Requirements
- Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program.
- Current Illinois Registered Dental Hygienist license (IDFPR).
- CPR BLS certification through the American Heart Association.
- Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
Nice To Haves
- At least one year of experience working as a Dental Hygienist.
- Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene or a related field.
- Proficiency with computer skills and dental software applications, such as EPIC and dental x-ray software.
Responsibilities
- Perform dental cleanings, including scaling and polishing teeth.
- Conduct periodontal screenings, oral health assessments, and dental disease risk evaluations.
- Provide preventive services such as prophylaxis, periodontal maintenance, fluoride treatments, and sealants within the scope of licensure.
- Assess periodontal health according to provider orders and evidence-based practice standards.
- Document assessments, treatment, patient education, and follow-up recommendations in the electronic medical record; review medical histories and update patient records.
- Take diagnostic dental radiographs and assist with CBCT imaging in accordance with radiation safety standards, regulations, and department protocols.
- Assist the dentist and interdisciplinary care team with examinations, treatments, and other dental tasks.
- Collaborate with dentists on treatment plans and preventive care strategies.
- Educate patients about brushing, flossing, oral health maintenance, and treatment recommendations.
- Administer local anesthesia, monitor nitrous oxide, and perform other authorized adjunctive procedures consistent with Illinois law, training, certification, and hospital privileges.
- Follow infection prevention and safety standards; sterilize instruments and equipment and meet sterilization, maintenance, and quality assurance requirements.
- Promote patient comfort and provide exceptional customer service.
- Participate in professional development, quality improvement, patient safety, and performance improvement initiatives.
- Maintain professional working relationships and effective communication with the interdisciplinary team.
- Attend and contribute to departmental and discipline-specific service meetings.
- Follow Northwestern Medicine and departmental policies and procedures, the Code of Ethics, Customer Service Standards, and the Patients First mission.
Benefits
- Competitive benefits, including tuition reimbursement, loan forgiveness, and 401(k) matching.
- A range of benefits intended to support employees’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being and provide protection for unexpected life events.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Associate degree
