Purpose of Job:

Improve the overall health of the communities we serve by providing oral health care to adults and children as follows:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs dental cleanings, scalings, and prophylaxis, as indicated under supervision of a Dentist.

• Applies preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluoride). 

• Administers local anesthesia.

• Places permanent and provisional restorations.

• Performs x-rays, as needed.

• Records evaluations of oral condition on dental charts.

• Gives oral hygiene instructions, dietary advice and provides information about necessary dental care.

• Supports dental providers and other clinical staff when not in hygiene appointment, including sterilization.

• Participates in the development and implementation of provider productivity standards.  

• Participates in staff meetings and in-service training as directed by Dental Director.

• Represents CHAS Health at conferences, meetings, and continuing education programs. 

• Treats patients with highest respect in all functions of job and maintains patient confidentiality. 

• Performs other duties assigned, including supporting the CHAS Health Mission and Core Values.

Qualifications:

• Education/Experience: Graduation from an ADA-accredited dental hygiene program required. Previous experience in a community dental clinic preferred. Valid hygienist licensure from Washington State Department of Health or Idaho Board of Dentistry required at time of hire. Must be able to secure credentialing through identified agencies (Medicaid, etc.)

• Idaho clinics: Must have or be eligible to obtain an extended access dental hygiene restorative endorsement through the Idaho Board of Dentistry within 1 year of hire.

Skills: Excellent customer service, oral and written communications skills required. Compassion for patients required. Must be able to work well in team environment. Ability to multi-task in fast-paced work environment, with ability to anticipate future needs. Computer skills required. Knowledge in surgical and restorative dental assisting required. Commitment to supporting a safe and respectful environment is required. BLS (CPR/AED) certification for a Health Care Provider required. Valid drivers' license and insurance required.

Physical Demands:

Hygienists are required to stand under one-third of the day; while sitting and being mobile are required one-third to two-thirds of the time.  They are required to use hands to finger, handle or feel over two-thirds of the time, as well as reach with hands and arms.  Climbing, kneeling or crouching occurs less than one-third of the time; while balancing, stooping and crouching occur between one-third and two-thirds of the day.  Communicating by talking / hearing occurs over two-thirds of the day.  Smelling occurs between one-third and two-thirds of the day.  Amount of time spent lifting or exerting force is about 30% for up to 10 pounds.  Rarely is there a need to lift more than 11 pounds. 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.