Dental Hygienist Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Demonstrated success with clear thinking and ability to reorganize as needed.
• Demonstrated success in working independently, prioritization and problem solving.
• Demonstrated success in organization abilities.
• Demonstrated success in computer skills including ability to use computer for scheduling, dental records and digital x-rays.
• Demonstrated success in customer service/patient services or working with the general public, preferably in a medical care facility and/or m
• Demonstrated success in managing difficult customer/patient situations.
• Significant knowledge of dental practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated success and experience with direct patient services and the proper knowledge and use of dental devices and equipment.
• Assist with or initiate emergency measures for sudden adverse developments during treatment of patients.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Successful completion of an accredited dental hygienist program.
• Current Registered Dental Hygienist with state licensure.
• Current BLS, medical emergencies, and radiation safety certification.

Nice To Haves

• Minimum five (5) years of experience in clinical dental hygiene or a minimum with 4,000 hours performing primarily prophylaxis or periodontal debridement under the supervision of a licensed dentist, preferred.
• Designation as a Public Health Dental Hygienist by Oral Health Section of NC DHHS, preferred, but will assist in obtaining if needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care and dental services as trained, licensed, and assigned.
• Assess dental condition and needs of patient using approved patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.
• Evaluate overall oral health, examining oral cavity for signs of periodontal disease or possible cancers, including recessed & bleeding gums, and oral lesions.
• Assist in the coordination of partnerships and events with outside organizations in support of the broader community dental program.
• Collaborate with community partners and maintain cooperative relationships with to insure AMH patients are well represented within the region.
• Expose, process and mount radiograph films.
• Document dental history or chief complaint; record and report pertinent observations and patient reactions to dentists, as appropriate.
• Document lab procedures and ensure follow up on results.
• Follow through with oral hygiene procedures in accordance with treatment plans prescribed by the attending dentist. Procedures may include: Prophylaxis, periodontal scaling, root planning, debridement, supra and subgingival scaling and curettage, application of fluoride treatments, and application of protective sealants.
• Respond promptly and with caring actions to patients and employees. Acknowledge psychosocial, spiritual and cultural beliefs and honor these beliefs.
• Maintain professional working relationships with all levels of staff, clients and the public.
• Be part of a team and cooperate in accomplishing department goals and objectives.
• Maintain current knowledge of policies and procedures as they relate to safe work practices.
• Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions.
• Use appropriate body mechanics to ensure an injury free environment.
• Be familiar with location of nearest fire extinguisher and emergency exits.
• Follow all infection control procedures including blood-borne pathogen protocols.
• Maintain privacy of all patient, employee and volunteer information and access such information only on a need to know basis for business purposes.
• Comply with all regulations regarding corporate integrity and security obligations.
• Report any behavior and/or activity that is unethical, fraudulent, or unlawful.
• Conduct dental health clinics for community groups to augment services of dentists.
• Help patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment.
• Educate patients in oral hygiene and dental care, including proper tooth brushing, flossing, nutrition and need for professional care.
• Demonstrate commitment to the mission of the organization in promoting dental health.
• Interact positively with a diverse, sometimes difficult, and demanding patient population. Provide service in a manner that is appropriate for the patient’s age; demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to meet the patient’s physical, psychosocial, and educational and safety needs.
• Read, write, and maintain patient records and related administrative documentation.
• Utilize the requisite tools, systems, technology and equipment in the collection of patient data, records management and collections.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of dentistry procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray setup and materials.
• Demonstrate knowledge of established oral hygiene concepts and periodontal therapies