Public Health Dental Hygienist

Job Description

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluates each patient’s overall oral health, examining oral cavity for signs of periodontal disease, oral lesions, or possible cancers.

• Assesses dental condition and needs of patient using approved patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.

• Performs dental hygiene and procedures within the permitted scope of practice. Procedures may include: prophylaxis, periodontal scaling, root planning, debridement, sealant material, or both; performing coronal polishing; taking impressions of teeth for study models, diagnostic casts or athletic appliances.

• Exposes and mounts digital radiographs.

• Applies fluoride treatments and varnish.

• Applies protective sealants.

• Administers local anesthesia.

• Documents dental care services by charting in patient electronic records.

• Refers patients to dentist annually.

• Educates patients in oral hygiene including proper tooth brushing, flossing, nutrition, and need for professional care.

• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of established oral hygiene concepts and periodontal therapies, dental procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray set up, and dental materials.

• Demonstrates commitment to the mission of the organization in promoting dental health.

• Interacts positively with a diverse and occasionally demanding patient population.

• Provides service in a manner that is appropriate for the patient’s age; demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to meet the patient’s physical, psychosocial, educational, and safety needs.

• Fosters teamwork within and between individuals and teams at BCHC by promoting open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve quality patient care.

• Functions competently within own scope of practice as a member of the health care team.

• Values the perspectives and expertise of all health team members.

Education and Position Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current Registered Dental Hygienist with PA state licensure. Either holds or is eligible for Public Health Dental Practitioner permit.

• Local Anesthesia Permit.

• Current CPR (BLS) certification.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Do you have a current CPR Certification?
• Do you have a valid Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioner Permit?

License/Certification:

• Registered Dental Hygienist in PA (Required)
• Local Anesthesia Permit (Required)

Work Location: In person