Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist, VHP Community Smiles

Location: Valley Health Partners, Allentown, PA

Job Summary: Responsible for evaluating and instructing patients in oral hygiene techniques related to the prevention of diseases and disorders of the teeth and mouth. Cleans teeth and provides other preventative dental care. This role assists and consults with the Dentist in providing dental hygiene treatment to the patients of the community health center. This position will require one day a month commitment.

Minimum qualifications: Registered Dental Hygienist required. Valid license to practice in Pennsylvania upon hire.

Preferred qualifications: Bachelors Degree in Dental Hygiene. More than two years of Dentistry experience for a medically needy and underserved community in a community health center or Federally Qualified Health Center.

Skills Needed:

• Possesses in-depth knowledge of health and safety regulations, outstanding communication skills, pays close attention to detail.
• Has ability and desire to provide culturally sensitive, compassionate, and patient-centric care and builds positive rapport with community partners, including but not limited to the local school districts.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts initial dental assessment and consults with dentist on patient care.
• Conducts initial mouth screenings, review, and record patient health history.
• Assists Dentist with treatment needs and provide appropriate support to ensure timely and adequate care.
• Documents patient progress in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Removes calculus, stains, and plaque from teeth.
• Applies cavity preventative agents such as fluorides, pit, SDF, and fissure sealants.
• Works in collaboration with referring dentist who must approve care provided to each patient.
• Takes and develops dental x-rays as needed.
• Provides patient education for good oral hygiene and provides instructions on oral hygiene procedures and preventative dental care.
• Removes stains and deposits from teeth to prevent tooth and root decay, applies fluoride treatment, takes dental impressions, and applies sealants, when necessary.
• Sterilizes dental equipment and ensures appropriate infection control.
• Documents the cleaning and maintenance of operatory pursuant to OSHA guidelines.
• Tracks inventory of supplies and assists with inventory management and ordering, as necessary.
• Works with clinical staff to ensure that quality patient care and services are provided.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits:

• Choice of medical, dental, and vision plans with great coverage at VERY affordable rates.
• 403b Retirement Plan with generous company match
• Paid Time Off for holidays, vacation, sick & personal days
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement