Dental - RDH

SUMMARY

The Registered Dental Hygienist is responsible for providing patients with oral hygiene and preventive care services under the supervision of the Dentist.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Provide direct patient care and dental services as trained, licensed, and assigned. Assess dental condition and needs of patient using approved patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.
• Evaluate overall oral health, examining oral cavity for signs of periodontal disease or possible cancers, including recessed & bleeding gums, and oral lesions.
• Expose, process, and mount radiograph films.
• Document dental history or chief complaint; record and report pertinent observations and patient reactions to dentists, as appropriate.
• Document lab procedures and ensure follow up on results.
• Follow through with oral hygiene procedures in accordance with treatment plans prescribed by the attending dentist. Procedures may include: Prophylaxis, periodontal scaling, root planning, debridement, supra and subgingival scaling and curettage, application of fluoride treatments, and application of protective sealants.
• Assist with or initiate emergency measures for sudden adverse developments during treatment of patients.
• Help patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment.
• Educate patients in oral hygiene and dental care, including proper tooth brushing, flossing, nutrition and need for professional care.
• Interact positively with a diverse, sometimes difficult, and demanding patient population. Provide service in a manner that is appropriate for the patients age; demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to meet the patients physical, psychosocial, educational, and safety needs.
• Read, write, and maintain patient records and related administrative documentation.
• Utilize the requisite tools, systems, technology and equipment in the collection of patient data, records management and collections.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of dentistry procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray setup and materials.
• Demonstrate knowledge of established oral hygiene concepts and periodontal therapies.

QUALIFICATIONS

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 and/or EXPERIENCE

• Successful completion of an accredited dental hygiene program and current state licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist.

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Must have experience/knowledge of computer systems and programs.
• Must be organized, self motivated. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

• Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others using the written word.

REASONING ABILITY

• Ability to make critical decisions to solve a problem or reach a goal while following company procedures.
• Ability to organize well and follow a systematic method of performing a task.
• Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work-related problems.
• Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.
• Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
• Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Ability to adapt to change in the workplace.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Current driver's license and reliable means of transportation required.
• Completion of CPR Certification.
• Completion of Radiation Safety Certification.