Dental Hygienist

Position Summary

Under the supervision of a licensed Dentist in a clinical setting and using established dental hygiene protocols and procedures, the Dental Hygienist provides professional, high-quality dental care and education to a broad range of patients. Diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums, and related oral structures. Examines patient to determine nature of condition, utilizing x-rays, dental instruments, and other diagnostic procedures. Provides preventive dental services to patients, such as applications of fluoride and sealants to teeth, and education in oral and dental hygiene.

Job Responsibilities

• Institutes and supervises oral hygiene practices; determines that aseptic techniques of treatment are followed; acquires and supervises maintenance of supplies and equipment necessary to perform all types of dental treatment.
• Coordinates local dental health projects; directs and participates in dental examinations of school age children; promotes dental health programs in public schools.
• Serves as an area consultant in promoting dental health education with local health departments; conducts state-wide program with local agencies and assists in establishing and maintaining an effective program on the local level.
• Examines and determines need for dental treatment of patients entering institution or clinic; participates in dental treatment by performing all procedures required to establish and maintain proper dental health for the patients.
• Serves as a consultant in dental problems to other medical and para-medical services in the institution, clinic, or other health facilities.
• Assists in promoting and maintaining good public relations among community groups and professional health organizations such as the North Carolina Dental Society.
• Determines that patients’ charts and dental records are correctly maintained through accurate recording of all dental procedures performed on patient during period of confinement.
• Performs related duties as required.
• Provides high-quality dental hygiene care within the scope of service consistent with accepted standards of care.
• Evaluates patients and implements treatment regimens under the supervision of the Dentist.
• Provides complete documentation of all findings, treatments and outcomes.
• Initiates oral health education and prevention activities.
• Reviews and interprets patient dental records.
• Works cooperatively with other Dental Program staff.
• Helps out where needed to ensure smooth, efficient running of Dental Program.

Minimum Training and Experience Requirements

Graduation from an approved school of dentistry and two years of experience in the general practice of dentistry.