DENTAIL HYGIENIST
JOB FUNCTIONS:
1. Promotes oral health by performing dental cleanings, conducting oral cancer screenings and radiographic studies, documenting decay and disease conditions, and adhering to the Dental Practice Act during procedures.
2. Prepares treatment rooms according to protocols and procedures.
3. Welcomes, comforts, seats, and prepares patients for dental hygiene treatments.
4. Provides information to patients and staff, addressing inquiries and requests.
5. Maintains dental hygiene instruments by sharpening, sterilizing, and selecting them.
6. Selects materials and equipment for dental hygiene visits based on patient oral health evaluations.
7. Performs dental cleanings by removing deposits and stains from teeth and gum margins.
8. Detects diseases such as oral cancer and periodontal disease using visual and tactile examinations and radiographic studies.
9. Stops dental decay by applying fluorides and other preventive agents.
10. Enhances patient appearance and chewing ability by making temporary restorations and cleaning and polishing removable appliances.
11. Places, shapes, and finishes amalgam restorations.
12. Removes cement from crowns and bridges.
13. Supports dentists during dental and medical emergencies, maintaining CPR certification, emergency drugs and oxygen supply, and emergency contact information.
14. Educates patients with instructions on oral hygiene, plaque control, and postoperative care, and schedules reminders for follow-up dental hygiene visits.
15. Documents dental hygiene services by recording vital signs, medical and dental histories, and updating patient records.
16. Safeguards patient confidentiality and dental practice operations.
17. Maintains a safe and sanitary working environment by following procedures, rules, and regulations, including infection-control policies.
18. Ensures dental equipment functions properly through preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and arranging repairs, maintaining equipment inventory, and exploring new equipment and techniques.
19. Manages dental supplies by monitoring stock levels, anticipating needs, placing orders, confirming deliveries, and using resources efficiently to achieve job objectives.