Job Description
Job Description
Core Responsibilities and Duties :
Clinical Duties
- Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis) : Remove tartar (calculus), plaque, and stains from the teeth and beneath the gumline
- Periodontal Therapy : Perform scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) for patients with periodontal (gum) disease.
- Assessment & Screening : Conduct initial oral health screenings
- Radiography : Take and develop dental X-rays as prescribed by the dentist.
- Preventive Applications : Apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect teeth from decay.
- Documentation : Accurately chart patient's oral health conditions, treatment provided, and treatment plans in the patient record.
- Anesthesia : Administer local anesthetic agents (like numbing injections) and / or nitrous oxide.
Patient Education & Counseling
Oral Hygiene Instruction : Educate and demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques, such as correct brushing and flossing methods, tailored to the patient's needs.Health Promotion : Counsel patients on the connection between diet, nutrition, and oral health.Post-Treatment Instructions : Provide clear post-operative care instructions following dental procedures.Administrative & Practice Support
Review and update patient medical and dental histories.Maintain and sterilize dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols.Manage treatment room setup and breakdown.Help maintain the patient recall system for scheduling follow-up appointments.Essential Skills
Beyond formal qualifications, successful dental hygienists need specific qualities and soft skills :
Dexterity : Excellent fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination for working accurately in a small space with precise instruments.Communication Skills : Clear and empathetic communication with patients (especially those with anxiety) and collaboration with the dentist and office staff.Critical Thinking : The ability to assess a patient's oral health and develop appropriate care plans.Attention to Detail : Meticulousness in procedures, patient documentation, and following safety protocols.Education
Current Oklahoma Dental Hygienist license