POSITION

Position Title: Dental Hygienist

Status: Non-Exempt Full time

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POSITION SUMMARY:

The dental hygienist plays a crucial role in promoting and maintaining oral health by providing preventive dental care services to patients. They work under the supervision of a dentist to perform routine cleanings, administer treatments, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices. Dental hygienists also assist dentists during procedures and contribute to the overall efficiency of the dental office.

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WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Sitting, standing & walking for long periods.
• Withstanding frequent bending, twisting and position changes while chairside.
• Wearing many layers of PPE.
• Tolerate moderate noise levels from dental & other office equipment.
• Being comfortable in a clinical/dental office setting.
• Maintaining professionalism in stressful situations.
• Frequent client and interoffice personnel interaction, dependent heavily on customer service.
• Able to lift at least 35lbs to handle equipment and supplies.

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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform dental cleanings (prophylaxis) to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from patients' teeth.
• Conduct oral examinations to assess patients' oral health and identify any signs of dental issues.
• Expose dental X-rays and other diagnostic images as required.
• Apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help prevent tooth decay.
• Administer local anesthesia and/or nitrous oxide as directed by the dentist.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.
• Provide guidance on the use of dental products and recommend appropriate oral care tools.
• Document patient treatment plans, procedures performed, and treatment outcomes accurately.
• Maintain infection control standards and ensure cleanliness and sterilization of dental instruments and equipment.
• Assist in scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling administrative tasks as needed.
• Stay up to date on advancements in dental hygiene techniques and participate in continuing education programs.

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SUCCESS FACTORS:

• Always maintain the highest level of confidentiality pursuant to HIPAA.
• Strong knowledge of infection control, blood borne pathogens, and State & OSHA regulations.
• Represents the practice in a professional, pleasant, and cooperative manner.
• Proves punctual and flexible. Adheres to assigned work schedule and office policies.
• Comfortably handles multiple deadlines and task assignments.
• Works well independently and cooperatively in team settings.
• Exhibits willingness to participate in continuing education and other training seminars.
• Demonstrates excellent communication skills by taking time to convey information effectively to patients and other team members.

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EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program.

State dental hygiene license or certification.

Clinical experience in dental hygiene preferred.

Proficiency in performing dental cleanings and administering treatments.

Knowledge of dental anatomy, oral health conditions, and preventive dental care techniques.

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Ability to work well in a team environment and collaborate effectively with dentists and other dental staff.

Strong attention to detail and adherence to infection control protocols.

Compassion and empathy towards patients' dental concerns.

Commitment to maintaining professional ethics and patient confidentiality.

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EEO STATEMENT:

Windham County Dental Center is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

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