The dental hygienist is responsible for providing patients with preventative dental care and oral hygiene services. Working closely with the dentist, they educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and provide treatments to maintain and improve oral health.
**Responsibilities:**
1. Conduct dental cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth.
2. Perform oral exams to assess the patients oral health and identify any issues or concerns.
3. Take and develop dental x-rays as necessary for diagnostic purposes.
4. Apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to protect teeth from decay.
5. Educate patients on oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.
6. Provide individualized oral hygiene instructions tailored to each patients needs.
7. Administer local anesthesia and/or nitrous oxide as the dentist directs for patient comfort during procedures.
8. Assist the dentist in various procedures, such as fillings, crowns, and extractions.
9. Document patient care and treatment plans accurately in dental records.
10. Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment according to infection control guidelines.
11. Schedule and coordinate patient appointments and follow-up visits.
12. Stay current with developments in dental hygiene and participate in continuing education courses as required.
**Requirements:**
1. Graduation from an accredited dental hygiene program.
2. Current state licensure as a dental hygienist.
3. CPR certification.
4. Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
5. Attention to detail and working efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
6. Compassion and empathy for patients needs and concerns.
7. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a dental team.
8. Knowledge of dental software for patient record management (e.g., Dentrix, Eaglesoft).
**Preferred Qualifications:**
1. Previous experience working as a dental hygienist.
2. Certification in administering local anesthesia
3. Proficiency in additional languages (depending on patient demographics).
4. Membership in professional dental hygiene associations (e.g., American Dental Hygienists Association).