Essential Duties:

• Performs oral prophylaxis on patients, scaling and root planning, polishing, to include the application of topical fluorides, sealants, topical anesthetics, and desensitizing agents to teeth and/or gingiva, as well as placing localized subgingival antibiotic (Arestin) as approved by Dentist.


• Instructs patients on proper oral hygiene care and maintenance of dental prosthesis.


• Records and maintains periodontal charting via Florida Probe


• Records vital signs, medications, and treatment of patient; reviews and updates patient health history.


• Practices and maintains proper infectious disease control procedures, including cleaning and sterilization of dental instruments and disinfection of operatory.


• Assists in placing necessary supplies needed in monthly order request list for Supervisor.


• Indicates Next Visit for unscheduled and incomplete treatment with Dentist in EDR.


• Schedules hygiene Next Visit appointments at end of hygiene visits.


• Conducts Peer Reviews as assigned by Supervisor.


• On occasion, may need to expose and process digital diagnostic radiographs using bitewings, periapical and panoramic film, and alerts dentist to observations.


• Assist in planning health fairs and community events.


• Conduct oral health group training/dental education.


• Performs other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:

Associate degree in Dental Hygiene or related science or graduate of an accredited Dental Hygiene Program required; bachelor's degree preferred. At least three years of experience and/or training as a Dental Hygienist required; in some clinics, at least two years of experience working with children in family practice or pediatric dentistry is preferred.

Language Ability:

Ability to read, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to read and analyze medical documents. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. Fluent in English and Spanish required.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Ability to work independently.

Certificates and Licenses:

Licensed by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners as a Registered Dental Hygienist in good standing, valid CPR certification and Jurisprudence certification required and up to date. Must have all other courses up to date as required by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.

Computer Skills:

Demonstrate working knowledge of the Internet, Outlook, Word and Excel, and electronic dental records software. Knowledge of other digital dental diagnostic software and/or instruments is necessary.

Other:

Ability to drive and have access to a car; maintain valid driver's license and auto liability insurance.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a team member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the team member is exposed to a dental office environment having direct contact with patients and clients. Position necessitates bending, stooping, twisting, turning, walking, climbing step stools, sitting, and standing for periods of time. Must be able to lift and maneuver at least 25 pounds.