Dental Hygienist

Essential Functions

Functional Area: Patient Care/Operational Excellence

Estimated Effort:  70%

Responsibilities, Deliverables, Outcomes and Expectations

• Assesses the dental needs of patient, using approved screening procedures; review of medical history, dental charting, and periodontal charting. Collect and record vital signs.
• Provides preventive oral health services including dental prophylaxis, scaling, periodontal treatment, sealant application and fluoride application consistent with accepted professional practices and standards and in compliance with applicable state law and Valley View clinical protocols.
• Documents dental services by charting findings, diagnosis, treatment plan, and completed care so that the dental chart accurately and completely reflects the nature of the visit, the condition of the patient and the care or treatment provided.
• Educates patients by providing oral hygiene and post-operative instructions.
• Maintains minimum productivity standards set forth by employment agreement.
• Prepare and maintain dental supplies, materials, and instruments, including disinfecting and sterilizing instruments and handpieces according to CDC/clinic policy.
• Maintain optimal operation of equipment, including but not limited to; handpieces, radiographic equipment, sterilizers, ultrasonic cleaner, water distiller, amalgam separator, and the central evacuation system
• (pump/compressor).
• Maintains stock of dental supplies, including, but not limited to; stocking operatories, review/put away supply order, add to and submit supply order.
• Duties are completed in accordance with established health center policies/procedures, objectives, QI activities, safety, environmental, and clinical infection control standards.
• Follows through with post-visit responsibilities.
• Documents dental services by charting findings, diagnosis, treatment plan, and completed care so that the dental chart accurately and completely reflects the nature of the visit, the condition of the patient and the care or treatment provided.

Functional Area: Administrative/Outreach & Education

Estimated Effort:  20%

Responsibilities, Deliverables, Outcomes and Expectations

• Participates in the daily morning huddle.
• Completes patient referrals, both internal and external, and may as necessary assist in coordination of care.
• Assists with telephone triage, knowledgeable in differentiating between true dental emergencies and routine treatment.
• Evaluates hygiene schedule daily and works closely with the Patient Access staff to make sure appointments are filled.
• Maintains the physical condition of the dental clinic and the dental instruments/equipment.
• As needed, prepare treatment plans, treatment cost estimates, and present to patient for review.
• Prepares and submits patient dental insurance prior-authorization in accordance with the dentist’s diagnosis.
• Organizes, presents, and assists in oral health education presentations and provides technical assistance at on-site and off-site outreach events in the community.
• May assist the Director of Dental Operations with administrative duties, including but not limited to, supply ordering, SDS manual, infection control monitoring, problem solving EHR and digital imaging issues.
• Maintains patient confidentiality
• Is a leader in training and acclimating new dental staff members.

Functional Area: Service and Other Responsibilities

Estimated Effort:  10%

Responsibilities, Deliverables, Outcomes and Expectations

• Other responsibilities may include, but is not limited to, serving as part of various committees (ad hoc or standing), work groups, and service teams within Valley View Health Centers and CAC.
• Demonstrate commitment to the mission of the organization in promoting oral health.