Dental Hygienist

Job purpose
Dental Hygienists conduct initial patient screenings, clean teeth (e.g. remove plaque) and
advise patients on oral health and preventative care. Dental Hygienists also
help dentists decide treatments for teeth or gum diseases and handle dental emergencies.

Duties and responsibilities

• Conducting patient screening procedures, such as assessment of oral health conditions,
• review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental
• charting, perio-charting, and taking blood pressure and pulse
• Taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays)
• Perform local anesthesia and administer nitrous oxide
• Removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth
• Applying preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)
• Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health;
• (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing, and nutritional counseling)
• Counseling patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health
• Making impressions of patient's teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists to
• evaluate patient treatment needs)
• Identifying conditions like gingivitis, caries, or periodontitis
• Preparing operatories by sterilizing instruments and moving equipment into place
• Calling patients to maintain the schedule
• Monitor and order dental supplies as needed
• Performing documentation and office management activities
• Ability to run a double hygiene schedule with an assistant
• Providing support to dentists and other staff as needed
• Maintaining OSHA and HIPPA compliance
• Other job duties as assigned

High school diploma or equivalent
Associate degree or higher from a dental hygiene school accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA)
State-certified dental hygienist license
Expanded functions preferred if not covered by license
o Local Anesthesia

Working conditions
Dental practices run at a fast pace and dental hygienists will be required to keep up with the flow
of doctors and patients.

Physical requirements
Dental Hygienists will be required to:
Use their hands and feet to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
Repeat the same movements.
Bend or twist their body.
Sit for long periods.
Stand for long periods.
Lifting up to 50 pounds

Reports to:  Area Director of Operations/Operations Manager & Operating Doctor

Direct reports: None.