Dental Hygienist

Full Job Description

Description:

Registered Dental Hygienist will have clinical duties. As per New York State guidelines, clinical responsibilities are to be performed under the direct supervision of a Dentist. The Dental Hygienist will work as part of a team with the Dentist, Dental Assistants, Dental Practice Manager and Dental Patient Service Representatives to ensure a smooth operation, patient flow, and efficient functioning of the Dental Unit.

Essential Functions and Duties:

• Accurately review and chart each patient’s medical and dental health history including allergies, medications and periodontal health.
• Taking and processing Dental radiographs (X-rays) when necessary.
• Prepares patient for Dental Hygiene treatment by welcoming, soothing seating, and draping patient.
• Detects disease by completing oral cancer screening; manual and visual examination of the oral cavity, face, neck area and TMJ using periodontal probes, accessing radiographs to locate pathology and abnormal oral conditions including periodontal disease, caries, and occlusal disease.
• Arrests dental decay by applying fluorides and other cavity-preventing agents.
• Charts existing dentition and condition of gingiva.
• Formulates plaque index as part of each hygiene exam.
• Provides occlusal sealants for designated patients.
• Performs routine dental prophylaxis (cleanings) scaling, root planning and polishing for patients as necessary.
• Records all the above procedures in patients’ electronic dental chart, including completing the “Oral Findings” sections pf every dental chart involving hygienist treatment.
• Provides educational support to patients including individual oral hygiene instructions, teaching patients’ appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; as well as implementing Self-Management goals (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
• Use of Dental Technology, including Electronic Dental Records and digital X-rays. Dental Health Maintenance, Infection Control, chairside manner and providing a safe environment for patients as well as listening and teamwork.
• Administration of local anesthetic with qualifying state certification.

Infection Control Duties:

• Properly discarding of all disposable items for each visit in appropriate containers.
• Assemble soiled instruments and place in sterilization area.
• Clean treatment room surfaces with designated disinfectant solution in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendation.
• Prepare the room for patients with proper barriers, tray covers and all necessary instruments for upcoming procedures.
• Store instruments and trays in appropriate places.
• Monitor sterilization of instruments and sterilization logs.
• Monitor all spore testing and all pertinent follow ups as a team.

Requirements:

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Computer literate.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Bilingual in English, Spanish, or French preferred but not required.
• Strong ability to problem solve and pay attention to detail.