Dental Hygienist

Department:  Dental

Position:  Dental Hygienist

Employee Category: Exempt

Reporting Relationship:  Dental Director

Character Qualities:

Dependability- Fulfilling what I consented to do, even if it means unexpected sacrifice.

Diligence- Investing all my energy to complete the tasks assigned to me.

Endurance- The inward strength to withstand stress and do my best.

Enthusiasm- Expressing my joy in each task as I give it my best effort

Joyfulness- Marinating a good attitude, even when faced with unpleasant conditions.

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Educating patients on preventative oral maintenance; takes x-rays; manual manipulation of scalers and root planning; Knowledge of proper maintenance of the ultrasonic and prophylaxis instruments; Knowledge of etiology of dental disease, nutrition and dental hygiene; Assists the dentist during patient schedule overload.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities: 

1. Prepares the patients for dental treatment.
2. Arranges instrument materials, medications and sharpens instruments as necessary.
3. Instructs patients on proper dental hygiene maintenance.
4. Submits supplies requests as needed.
5. Maintains dental equipment.
6. Reports patient dental hygiene conditions to the supervising dentist.
7. Takes appropriate digital X-rays.
8. Scales (including deep root planning) and polishes teeth.
9. Follows OSHA guidelines and uses “Universal Precautions” safety rules.
10. Keeps operatories and the lab neat and aseptic always.
11. Support Variety Care’s accreditation as a Patient Centered Medical Home and our commitment to provide care to all Variety patients that is Safe, Effective, Patient Centered, Timely, Efficient, and Equitable.  Provide leadership and work with all staff to achieve the goals of the “Triple Aim” of healthcare reform—to improve the experience of care, improve health outcomes, and decrease healthcare costs.
12. Embodies the strength of personal character. Places value on being an open and honest communicator who displays high moral and ethical conduct, integrity, adaptability, and sound judgment.  Must be a leader in the department and community. Result-oriented problem solver who is responsible and accountable.
13. Other duties as assigned

Requirements, Special Skills or Knowledge:

1. A 2-year certificate or 4-year degree from an accredited college with a dental hygiene degree.
2. Certified and Registered by the Oklahoma Board of Dental Hygienists.
3. Anesthesia license.
4. Nitrous Oxide license.
5. Bilingual Spanish/English preferred.
6. Trustworthy with handling confidential information.
7. Ability to work in a multi-faceted, fast pace environment.
8. Able to handle stressful situations and difficult patients.

ADA Requirements: 

1. Able to lift at least 25 pounds.
2. Able to assist patients in to and out of dental chair.
3. Able to walk, bend, lift, and remain on feet for extended periods of time.