A registered dental hygienist plays a vital role in promoting oral health and preventing dental diseases within a dental practice. Tasked with providing comprehensive dental care, they perform dental cleanings, take X-rays, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques. With their keen attention to detail and expertise in identifying oral health issues, they assist dentist in diagnosing and treating dental conditions. Their compassionate approach and strong communication skills ensure patient comfort and understanding throughout their dental experience. A registered dental hygienist is an integral member of the dental team, contributing to the overall quality of patient care and promoting optimal oral health outcomes.

Essential functions

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient Care and Education: Perform thorough dental cleanings and oral examinations. Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and preventive care. Measure of Success: Demonstrate improvement in patients’ oral health based on follow-up examinations.

2. Periodontal Assessment and Treatment: Assess and treat various periodontal conditions. Perform scaling and root planning procedures. Measure of Success: Maintain or improve patients’ periodontal health indicators. Minimize the occurrence of periodontal-related issues in follow-up appointments.

3. Radiographic Imaging: Capture and interpret dental radiographs. Identify and communicate any abnormalities to the dentist. Measures of Success: Consistently produce high-quality radiographic images. Ensure timely communication of any abnormalities to the dental team.

4. Infection Control and Sterilization: Adhere to strict infection control protocols. Properly sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment. Measures of Success: Compliance with infection control guidelines as per industry standards. Zero instances of infection related to improper sterilization practices.

5. Documentation and Recordkeeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records. Document treatment plans and procedures performed. Measures of Success: Ensure completeness and accuracy of patient records. Facilitate efficient information retrieval during audits or patient follow-ups.

6. Continuing Education & Professional Development: Stay informed about the latest developments in dental hygiene. Participate in relevant continuing education courses. Measure of Success: Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth. Implement new knowledge and techniques into daily practice.

Competencies

1. Licensure: Must have an active/clear dental hygienist license in the state of Florida.

2. Clinical Expertise: Demonstrates proficiency in performing dental cleanings, examinations, and various preventive procedures. Applies advanced knowledge of dental anatomy, pathology, and oral health assessment.

3. Patient-Centered Care: Exhibits strong communication skills to educate and engage patients in oral health maintenance. Displays empathy and a patient-friendly approach to foster a positive dental experience.

4. Adherence to Professional Standards: Follows ethical and legal guidelines in dental practice. Maintains strict infection control-measures and complies with relevant regulations.

5. Collaborative Teamwork: Works seamlessly with other dental professionals to ensure coordinated patient care. Effectively communicate with dentists and support staff to achieve optimal treatment outcomes.

6. Technological Proficiency: Utilizes modern dental technologies for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Stays updated on industry advancements and integrates new technologies into practice.

7. Reliability and Dependability: Demonstrates consistent and punctual attendance, adhering to scheduled work hours. Complete assigned tasks and responsibilities with a high level of accuracy and thoroughness. Reliably follow through on commitments and meet deadlines, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the dental practice. Show dedication to maintaining a dependable work ethic, fostering a trustworthy and reliable presence within the team.

Work environment:

The Registered Dental Hygienist will work onsite.

Physical demands:

1. Standing for long periods: Dental hygienists spend much of their day on their feet while working with patients.

2. Repetitive movements: Tasks such as scaling teeth, polishing, and using dental instruments require repetitive hand and arm movements.

3. Fine motor skills: Dental hygienists must have excellent dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform tasks such as manipulating dental instruments, handling small objects, and operating equipment accurately.

4. Bending and leaning: Hygienists frequently need to bend and lean over patients to access the mouth and perform procedures.

5. Close visual attention: Works in the small space of a patient’s mouth requires close visual attention to detail.

6. Exposure to potentially hazardous materials: Dental hygienists may be exposed to saliva, blood, and other bodily fluids, as well as dental materials and chemical used in procedures.

7. Emotional demands: In addition to the physical demands, dental hygienists may also face emotional challenges related to interacting with patients who may be anxious, in pain, or have complex dental needs.

Travel required:

No travel required.

Required education and experience:

Registered Dental Hygienist with a Florida license.

Current CPR certificate (BLS).

Minimum of 1 year of clinical experience in clinical dental hygiene.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40.00 - $55.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Employee discount
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Ortega Blvd Dental - Jacksonville jobs

Registered Dental Hygienist