A dental hygienist is a licensed oral healthcare professional who provides preventive and therapeutic care to patients, working in collaboration with a dentist and the dental team. Their primary focus is on maintaining and promoting oral health through screenings, cleanings, and patient education.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
The specific duties of a dental hygienist include the following:
Clinical Care and Procedures
- Medical and Dental History Review: Gathering and updating patient health information to ensure safe and personalized care.
- Oral Health Assessment and Screening: Performing thorough examinations of the head, neck, and mouth, including checking for signs of gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis), tooth decay, and oral cancer.
- Dental Cleanings: Using specialized instruments to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Performing deep cleaning procedures for patients with periodontal disease.
- Radiography (X rays): Taking and developing dental X-rays to assist the dentist in diagnosing problems not visible during a standard exam.
- Preventive Treatments: Applying fluoride and dental sealants to protect teeth from decay.
Patient Education and Counseling:
- Oral Hygiene Instruction: Educating patients on proper brushing and flossing techniques tailored to their individual needs.
- Dietary Guidance: Discussing the relationship between diet and oral health to help patients make informed choices.
- Lifestyle Counseling: Advising patients on the oral health impacts of habits like smoking or high sugar consumption.
Documentation and Collaboration:
- Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records, including conditions, treatments provided, and care plans.
- Collaboration with the Dental Team: Communicating findings to the dentist and working with the entire dental team to develop and implement comprehensive treatment plans.
- Infection Control: Adhering to strict infection control and sterilization protocols for instruments and treatment rooms to ensure a safe environment.
Work Environment
Family owned dental practice with mentoring program, caring environment focusing on exceptional client clare. It is a physically active role that requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong interpersonal communication skills.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $50.00 - $55.00 per hour
Expected hours: 24 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
License/Certification:
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person
