Dental Hygienist

Position Summary: The Dental Hygienist provides preventive oral care and education to patients under the supervision of a dentist. Perform dental cleanings, take X-rays, assess oral health, and educate patients on proper hygiene practices. Maintain accurate patient records and ensure compliance with infection control and safety protocols.

Education, Certification, and/or Licensure:

• Bachelor’s or associate degree from an accredited Dental Hygiene program.
• Current licensure as a Dental Hygienist from the West Virginia Board of Dentistry.
• CPR Certified.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform oral health assessments, including examination of teeth and gums to identify diseases, conditions, or abnormalities.
• Conduct dental cleanings by removing plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth.
• Apply preventive materials such as sealants and fluoride treatments.
• Take and develop dental X-rays as required.
• Assist the dentist during examinations and procedures when needed.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and nutrition for maintaining oral health.
• Encourage patients to maintain regular dental visits and good oral health habits.
• Follow strict infection control, sterilization, and sanitation procedures in compliance with OSHA and CDC guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Accurately document patient information, treatment provided, and clinical findings in dental records.
• Maintain confidentiality of all patient data in compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies.
• Collaborate with dentists, dental assistants, and office staff to ensure high-quality patient care.
• Participate in team meetings, continue education, and professional development to stay current with advances in dental hygiene and technology.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting, some bending and stretching.
• Lifting and carrying of items weighing up to 25 lbs.
• Requires full range of motion, manual dexterity to utilize dental instruments, hand-eye coordination and normal range of hearing and vision.

Working Environment: Work is performed in a clinical environment. Involves contact with staff, patients, and external agencies. Exposure to communicable diseases and other conditions common to a clinical environment. Work may involve long periods of high stress conditions. Utilizes company provided systems to perform tasks within the scope of their position and does not work outside of the scope of their position within systems, such as but not limited to EMR/HIS/Payroll/Time and Attendance/Payroll.

To apply, contact Angela Barker at Angela.Barker@nrhawv.org.