Dental Hygienist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

• Diagnose and provide treatment as allowed by the Dental Practice Act

Responsibilities

Patient Management

o greet patients when they sign in and monitor arrival time

o escort and seat patients to treatment rooms

o show care and concern, and help patient’s feel comfortable

o ensure patients’ questions are answered thoroughly before they leave, giving instruction and demonstrating as necessary

o monitor patient flow

o patient screening, such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting and taking blood pressure and pulse

o take diagnostic dental radiographs (x-rays) and intra-oral pictures

o administer local anesthetics, as applicable

o examine gums for disease and accurately chart periodontal findings

o remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth o apply preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)

o place medicaments sub-gingivally to treat disease

o teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health, e.g., tooth brushing and flossing

o counsel patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health

o take impressions of patients' teeth, then pour and trim for study casts, or patient trays for fluoride or whitening

o properly document and other activities associated with office or chart management

o perform clinical procedures as Practice Act allows

o work with dentist to optimize patient’s oral health

Supplies Management and Laboratory & Sterilization

Records Management

Office Participation

o Answering phones : New patients (thank you and referral), After-care / post-op, Confirmations, Pending treatment and Recall

o Verifying insurance

o Unpacking supplies

o Community-based

o Asking for referrals

o Cleaning : Bathrooms, Hallways, Operatories and Lab & Sterilization

Qualifications