Dental Hygienist

Position Title: Dental Hygienist

Location: Country Doctor Dental Clinic

Expected Hours: 24-40 hours/week depending on preference and availability 

Union: Yes

Salary

$45.22– $67.50 Per hour, exempt, payable bi-weekly. The salary scale for this position is between steps 0 and 19, depending on experience.  We use the resume submitted on your application to determine your hourly wage, so please ensure that all relevant work experience is listed in your resume. Applicants must pass an extensive background check.

About Us

Seattle Roots Community Health is a not-for-profit organization that operates two primary care clinics, an After-Hours Clinic, two School-Based Health Centers, a low barrier Medication-assisted treatment clinic and a Dental Clinic. Our Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center was founded in 1970 in Seattle's Central District. Our Country Doctor Community Clinic was established in 1971 by residents of the Capitol Hill neighborhood. 

Seattle Roots is passionate about serving patients of all backgrounds and employing individuals who are equally committed to this mission. To ensure our organization is best serving our populations, we strive to promote policies that enable us to work effectively in all situations, with patients, with coworkers, and with the community.

Our Mission

To improve the health of our community by providing high-quality and caring primary health care that addresses the needs of people, regardless of their ability to pay. At Carolyn Downs and Country Doctor, healthcare is a right.

Job Summary

As a Dental Hygienist, you hold a crucial position in promoting healthy teeth and preventing oral diseases. With your clinical expertise, you will perform dental procedures that preserve teeth and curb the spread of oral diseases. Your work will be under the clinical supervision of staff dentists, and the administration of the Dental Clinic Site Director and Dental Operations Director. By fulfilling your duties, you will play a significant role in preserving the health and wellbeing of many.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform dental cleanings (prophylaxis), including scaling, polishing, and root planing to maintain optimal oral health.
• Take and develop dental X-rays to assist the dentist in diagnosing oral conditions.
• Apply fluoride treatments and sealants to prevent tooth decay and maintain oral hygiene.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and diet recommendations.
• Perform periodontal charting and assess the patient’s oral health to identify conditions such as gum disease or cavities.
• Assist in the management of patient comfort during treatments, ensuring a calm and reassuring experience.
• Conduct oral health screenings and report any abnormalities or conditions that require further attention.
• Work with the dental team to apply antimicrobial agents, manage patient pain, and follow sterilization protocols.
• Follow infection control protocols to ensure patient and staff safety during dental treatments.
• Assist the dentist in procedures as needed, providing clinical support and patient care.
• Communicate with patients to explain treatment procedures, answer questions, and provide recommendations for future care.
• Coordinate with other dental staff to schedule appointments, manage patient records, and ensure effective care delivery.
• Work collaboratively with the office staff to ensure smooth operation of the dental clinic, including managing patient flow and scheduling follow-ups.
• Maintain and update patient charts with treatment details and progress notes.
• Ensure that dental supplies are stocked and managed efficiently, ordering new supplies as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience as a Dental Hygienist preferred, but entry-level candidates with appropriate training will be considered
• Strong knowledge of dental hygiene practices, procedures, and equipment
• Experience with dental X-rays, fluoride applications, and periodontal care
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to educate and support patients on oral health
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to patient comfort and safety
• Ability to work well in a team environment and collaborate with dentists and other staff members
• Familiarity with dental software and record-keeping practices
• Ability to operate dental equipment and maintain the required precision during clinical procedures

Education & Training:

• Associate's degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program required
• Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene or related field preferred
• Valid state licensure as a Dental Hygienist is required
• Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR required

Benefits

We provide a robust suite of benefits, including the choice of three medical plans, two dental plans, long-term disability, life, and other insurance programs. You’ll have access to flexible spending accounts, a subsidy of up to 80% of the cost of an ORCA pass, plus an additional match of 50% of the employee's contribution up to 4% after one year of employment. (Ex. if employee contributes at 4%, Seattle Roots will match with an additional 2%, plus the safe harbor contribution totaling a 9% contribution to the employee's 401k) We’ve got you covered!

Salary : $45 - $68