Dental Hygienist

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dental Hygienist will provide dental hygiene treatment and preventative instruction in accordance with their administrative and clinical duties. They will be expected to communicate effectively to provide an exceptional experience for our patients.

High Plains Community Health Center (HPCHC) is an equal-opportunity employer and strives to create an environment for career advancement and professional growth at all levels. HPCHC complies with organization-wide policies and Federally Qualified Health Center and OSHA requirements, related to the performance of HPCHC operations and requirements of the compliance program.

PRODUCTIVITY AND EXPECTATIONS:

The Dental Hygienist is an essential component to the success of HPCHC. This position is expected to prioritize time and responsibilities in the following manner:

85%: Dental Treatments and Prevention

• Validate operatories are ready before the procedure begins to include instruments, materials, and equipment.

• Collect and record patient medical and dental health histories, medications, allergies, and patient vital signs.

• Obtain baseline oral hygiene assessment data based on accepted principles of oral hygiene and periodontal care.

• Records patient-hygiene transactions as they occur in the patient’s dental record so that the dental record accurately and completely reflects the nature of the contact, the condition of the patient and the care or treatment provided.

• Evaluate patients for caries risk and periodontal pathology.

• Provides clinical oral hygiene services including dental prophylaxis, coronal polishing, scaling and root planning, periodontal maintenance, sealant application, flossing, and fluoride application consistent professional practices and standards and in compliance with applicable state law and clinic’s clinical protocols.

• Exposure of dental radiographs when a Dental Assistant is not available.

• Provide oral health education for preventative dentistry, which includes proper brushing and flossing techniques; proper nutrition; the purpose of sealants; and the purpose of topical fluoride.

• Clean removable appliances and prostheses.

• Provide the patient with pre- and post-op instructions for periodontal procedures.

• Provide home care instructions for removable prosthodontics.

• Integration of appropriate patient dental hygiene care with other health care professionals involved in the patient’s health care management.

• Present and educate the patient on the proposed treatment plan.

• Assist in training new dental assistants and dental hygienists.

• Assist with medical and dental emergencies according to OSHA and office protocols.

• Follow and maintain infection control protocols.

• Performs independent procedures as delegated and directed by a dentist in accordance with state regulations and law as well as dental department protocol and directives.

15%: Documentation

• Consent for treatment is discussed and signed.

• Complete patient chart notes and charges.

• Complete referrals and send x-rays as directed by the dentist.

• Enter actions for every patient based on recall and follow-up needs.

• Organizes and performs preventative oral health presentations and screenings at on-site and off-site locations.

• Receive and place necessary telephone calls consistent with professional matters, clinic business, and patient care of the dental department.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from an accredited school of Dental Hygiene is required.

• Current Colorado License as a Registered Dental Hygienist is required.

• Certification and permit to administer local anesthesia.

• Current Basic Life Support Certification (BLS) or within 90 days of hire required.

• Radiation safety certification or successful completion of a radiation safety course is required.

• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and to prioritize and perform multiple tasks is required.

• One year of dental hygiene experience preferred.

• Experience working with diverse and/or underserved populations preferred.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrates commitment to the organizational mission, vision, and values.

• Maintains knowledge of federal and state regulations related to FQHC’s and relative practice area.

• Exhibits the ability to make sound decisions for delivery of care/services.

• Demonstrates effective relationships with clinic staff, patients, public, outside vendors/agencies, and providers.

• Communicates effectively; demonstrates ability to speak, read, and write professionally, as well as compile, analyze and present information in English and/or Spanish.

• Maintains confidentiality of patient information.

• Exercises professional judgment, courtesy, and professionalism in daily interactions with others.

• Works both independently and as part of a team; establishes and maintains effective working relationships with healthcare team members and diverse patient populations.

• Displays time management and organizational skills to consistently meet deadlines.

• Performs other duties as required.

There will be opportunities for other duties as this position may evolve and policies and training may change. Reasonable accommodation will be reviewed, and modifications may be made according to ADA guidelines. This position utilizes proper body mechanics, transfer/lifting techniques, and appropriate equipment to minimize fall risk to patients and/or injury to self.

Additional Information

Position Type : Full Time

Shift : Day

Salary: $67,925.16 to $75,707.06 per year

Contact Information

Human Resources

201 Kendall Drive

Lamar, Co 81052

Email: people@highplainschc.net