Dental Hygienist (Temporary)

JOB SUMMARY

The Dental Hygienist provides preventative dental care and services for, and to, children and adult patients. Ensures appropriate and courteous treatment of all patients and assists in maintaining a properly functioning dental center.  Most hygiene procedures must be performed under the assignment of a licensed dentist as defined by the Michigan Board of Dentistry.  Ensures compliance with established GLBHC policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

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

1. Responsible for performing oral prophylaxis on a wide variety of patients which includes supra and sub gingival scaling followed by a coronal polish and flossing. Evaluates patient’s periodontal condition, provides periodontal treatment and maintenance program. Maintains instrumentation for dental hygiene treatment by sharpening and sterilizing instruments as well as maintains hygiene equipment to ensure proper working condition. (30%)
2. Takes diagnostic quality digital x-rays and (as needed conventional radiographs) as assigned by the Staff Dentist, demonstrating proper radiographic techniques and radiation protection. (10%)
3. Responsible for the accuracy, clarity, and proper completion of dental charting. Documents relevant communications with patient into a detailed clinical or communication note. Records and updates patient’s medical/dental history and supporting documents. Takes and records patients’ vitals (blood pressure, height, weight, etc.) at every visit. Completes periodontal charting or survey in the patient’s records. Coordinates and maintains patient re-care program. (15%)
4. Meets productivity and quality improvement goals. Maintains effective working relationships with patients and team members while promoting a positive atmosphere within the site. (25%)
5. Maintains safe and disinfected working environment by complying with GLBHC’s Infection Control policies and other regulatory policies and protocols. Prepares treatment room for patient by adhering to prescribed infection control procedures and protocols. Coordinates efforts with the clinical team in the completion of sterilization of all instruments, disinfection of all operatories and contaminated surfaces, and by maintaining organization and cleanliness of labs and all equipment. Wears Personal Protective Equipment in compliance with policies and protocols. (15%)
6. Provides dental education to patients including oral hygiene instructions, smoking cessation, nutrition counseling, and the importance of routine dental/home care. Applies fluoride treatments, desensitizing agents, and pit and fissure sealants to the appropriate patients. (5%)

Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

MARGINAL JOB DUTIES

1. Performs expanded duties as qualified: administering local anesthesia to patients.
2. Assists other team members with front desk duties, takes emergency walk-in patients during down time, and other duties as assigned.
3. Precepting and orientating dental hygiene students from participating Community Outreach programs.
4. Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

1. Education: Graduate of an accredited school of Dental Hygiene.
2. Licensure: Current Michigan license as Registered Dental Hygienist. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification Required.
3. Experience: N/A
4. Skills: Able to work independently, as well as a member of the Health/Dental Center Team. Current BLS Certification required.
5. Interpersonal skills: Able to communicate effectively with, and relate to, a diverse population in a professional manner. Capable of taking initiative in day-to-day responsibilities. Excellent verbal and written skills. 
6. Physical Effort: Must be able to sit, stand, and or walk for an entire workday. Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull, and or twist while holding up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
7. Hours of Work: Full-time or Part-time or Seasonal; Flexible and varied.
8. Travel: Minimal travel required, primarily to attend meetings or to update skills and attend professional seminars for continuing education. Reimbursement consistent with GLBHC policy.

PREFERRED JOB SPECIFICATIONS

1. Skills: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

GLBHC is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and or local laws.