Hygiene Assistant

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry•Selma, NC

About The Position

As a Hygiene Assistant, you’ll work alongside one or two hygienists to keep the schedule running smoothly. You’ll handle patient preparation, charting, room turnover, and treatment plan conversations so hygienists can focus on clinical care. The role is suited to a dental assistant who enjoys a fast pace, patient interaction, and teamwork. The position includes patient preparation and support, clinical documentation, radiographs and intraoral photos, operatory turnover, instrument sterilization, infection control, patient education, treatment-plan discussions, and scheduling assistance. Duties must remain within the scope permitted for dental assistants under North Carolina regulations. The hiring process includes a phone screen followed by an in-office working interview. The employer contacts prior employers for references, including questions about attendance, dependability, and teamwork; candidates should be ready to provide at least two supervisor references. Offers are contingent on satisfactory reference and background checks. New team members complete a 90-day introductory period.

Requirements

Completion of a North Carolina Board-approved radiology course, or ability to complete it before starting.
Current CPR/BLS certification.
Strong communication skills and a warm, patient-first approach.
Ability to stay organized and adaptable in a fast-paced setting.
Comfort discussing treatment and financial options with patients.
Ability to meet the listed physical requirements, including standing, sitting, bending, reaching, lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds, and performing clinical tasks requiring fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Ability to see and hear well enough to perform clinical duties and communicate with patients and team members, with or without correction.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment for extended periods and work in a clinical setting with exposure to bodily fluids, dental materials, and low-level radiation while following safety protocols.

Nice To Haves

Dental assisting experience; new graduates are welcome to apply.
North Carolina Dental Assistant II credential.

Responsibilities

Greet and seat patients, review and update medical histories, and take vital signs.
Take radiographs and intraoral photos.
Record periodontal charting and clinical notes as dictated by the hygienist.
Prepare and turn over operatories by cleaning, disinfecting, and setting up trays.
Sterilize instruments and maintain infection control standards.
Provide oral hygiene instructions to patients.
Review recommended treatment plans, answer questions, and explain costs, insurance estimates, and patient financing options.
Help schedule recommended treatment and partner with the front office to support case acceptance.
Help keep the hygiene schedule on time and support the team during busy days.
Perform other duties within the scope permitted for dental assistants under North Carolina regulations.