Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Job Summary:

Dental Hygienists examine and clean patients’ teeth, offer advice and educate patients on how to take care of their gums and teeth to prevent dental decay and enhance their oral health. Dental Hygienists check patients for oral diseases such as tooth decay and gingivitis. After screening patients and determining the severity of any oral issues, the Dental Hygienists will write a report recommending a suitable treatment and send it to the Dentist.

Responsibilities:

·        Perform dental hygiene services and procedures, including dental prophylaxis, scaling, flouride and sealants, and root planning

·       Complete a thorough assessment of the patient's teeth, bone, and periodontal tissues, and document any abnormalities or suspected conditions

·         Customize care to meet patient's oral health

·         Educate patients on good oral hygiene techniques

·         Aid the dentist with procedures and emergencies as needed

·         Maintain patient confidentiality

·         Provide all care in conjunction with accepted professional dental practices and standards

·         Ensure patients feel as comfortable as possible before their examination

·         Sterilize dental instruments properly

·         Conduct initial mouth screenings and check oral health history

·         Identify conditions like gingivitis, caries or periodontitis

·         Clean and help protect patients’ teeth (e.g. remove plaque or apply fluoride)

·         Educate patients of all ages on proper teeth care (by demonstrating, for example, good brushing techniques)

·         Give instructions to patients after operations or other dental procedures

·         Take X-rays or dental impressions

·         Assist dentists with selecting appropriate treatments for various diseases (including oral cancer)

·         Maintain documentation and charts on each patient

·         Monitor supplies

Required Skills/Abilities:

·         Current CPR certification

·         Excellent interpersonal skills

·         Proven dedication to provide high quality, comprehensive dental care

·         Ability to comply with safety procedures, rules, and regulations in order to maintain a clean and safe working environment

·         Strong working knowledge of dental terminology, equipment, and practices

*    Knowledge of Eaglesoft or similar dental software preferred

Education and Experience:

·        Graduate of an accredited school of dental hygiene

·         Valid license to practice in Nebraska

Physical Requirements:

·         Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

·         Must be able to life 15lbs at times.

·         Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organizations facilities.