Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary:
Dental Hygienist Job Description
Job Overview
A Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral healthcare professional who specializes in preventive dental care and patient education. They work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive oral health services and treatments to patients.
Responsibilities
Patient Care
- Perform comprehensive oral examinations, including assessing the patient's oral health, reviewing medical history, and identifying any potential issues or concerns.
- Conduct thorough cleanings, removing plaque, calculus (tartar), and stains from teeth using specialized instruments and techniques.
- Apply preventive agents such as fluoride, sealants, and other treatments to protect teeth from decay and promote overall oral health.
- Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and dietary recommendations.
- Administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide as needed for patient comfort during procedures.
- Dental radiographs for diagnostic purposes.
Administrative Duties
- Accurately record and update patient medical and dental histories, treatment plans, and clinical notes in electronic health records.
- Maintain and sterilize dental instruments and equipment according to established protocols and guidelines.
- Comply with all relevant regulations, policies, and procedures related to infection control, patient privacy, and workplace safety.
Patient Education and Communication
- Communicate effectively with patients, explaining procedures, answering questions, and addressing concerns in a clear and compassionate manner.
- Provide oral health education and guidance to patients, emphasizing the importance of preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Collaborate with other dental professionals, such as dentists and dental assistants, to ensure seamless patient care and treatment coordination.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Successful completion of an accredited dental hygiene program, typically leading to an Associate's or Bachelors Degree in Dental Hygiene.
- Current and valid state license to practice as a Dental Hygienist.
- Proficiency in using dental software, electronic health records, and radiographic equipment.
- Manual Dexterity: Excellent control and precision when using dental instruments and tools inside patients' mouth and attention to detail. Required to use both hands in the mouth. One to scale and another to retract the tissues.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work well in a team environment and maintain professional relationships with patients and colleagues.
- Commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest dental practices and technologies.
- Adherence to strict infection control protocols and safety standards.
- Compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to promote oral health and well-being.
Work Environment
Dental Hygienists work with dentists and other dental professionals. The work environment may involve standing for extended periods, using specialized dental equipment, and adhering to strict infection control protocols.
Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this Job, employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; risk of electrical shock and risk of radiation. Manual dexterity to operate equipment for proper cleaning and examination. Requires visual and hearing acuity corrected to normal range. With or without the aid of assistive devices: mobility, reaching, bending, ability to independently support the weight of an average person, grasping, fine hand coordination, pushing and pulling, and finger/hand dexterity to handle computer, dental and other equipment. Must be able to tolerate prolonged sitting. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Team Member so classified. This job description is subject to change depending on the business needs.