Dental Hygienist

West Cecil Health Center (WCHC) is seeking a dedicated Registered Dental Hygienist to join our team!

WCHC is a thriving nonprofit, community health organization that provides comprehensive and collaborative patient centered healthcare services. Based primarily in. Conowingo, some travel to Elkton may be required. Bilingual is a plus. $2500 sign on bonus

Position Summary:

The Registered Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who works collaboratively under the general supervision of a dentist and with the dental team to provide high-quality preventive and therapeutic dental care. The hygienist plays a key role in patient education, periodontal care, and early disease detection. This position supports the mission of improving the oral and overall health of a diverse patient population in a community-focused setting.

WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY?

• $2500 Sign-on Bonus
• Growth and Advancement Opportunities
• Company Sponsored Events
• Employee Engagement Committees
• WCHC offers a compressive benefit package including:

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Care:

• Perform oral prophylaxis, periodontal scaling and root planning, and application of fluoride treatments and sealants as trained, licensed, and assigned

• Conduct comprehensive oral health assessments, including charting, periodontal probing, and evaluation of oral tissues.

• Assess dental condition and needs of patients using approved patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.

• Take and process dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and WCHC protocols.

• Assist in identifying conditions such as caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues; refer to the dentist as needed.

• Document dental history or chief complaint; record and report pertinent observations and patient reactions to dentists as appropriate

• Follow through with oral hygiene procedures in accordance with treatment plans prescribed by the attending dentist. Procedure may include:
  Prophylaxis, periodontal scaling, root planning, debridement, supra and subgingival scaling and curettage, application of fluoride treatments, and application of protective sealants.

• Assist with or initiate emergency measures for sudden adverse developments during the treatment of patients.

• Help patients feel comfortable before, during, and after dental treatment

Patient

Education:

• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, disease prevention, and post-treatment care. Including proper tooth brushing, flossing, nutrition and the need for professional care.

• Provide individualized instructions based on patient needs, conditions, and risk factors.

• Promote oral health as part of overall wellness and support integration with primary care.

Sterilization & Infection Control:

• Sterilize instruments and disinfect treatment areas in accordance with OSHA, CDC, and WCHC guidelines

• Ensure all dental equipment is cleaned, maintained, and functioning properly.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date clinical records using the electronic health record (EHR) system.

• Ensure the operatory is clean, stocked, and ready for patient care.

• Ensure all patient records and related documentation are managed and maintained in a timely and accurate manner, and are compliant with all HIPAA and associated regulations and regulatory requirements.

• Ensure all tasks provided and associated with patient care, administrative processes, and related duties comply with all regulatory and accreditation standards, as well as WCHC polices and procedures.

Team

Collaboration:

• Work closely with dentists, dental assistants, and front office staff to ensure efficient patient flow and high-quality care.

• Participate in staff meetings, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives.

• Uphold and consistently represent the mission, vision, and values of WCHC at all times.

• Participate in compliance with the UDS sealant measurement

Other Duties:

• Enhance the efficiency of the dental office by performing expanded duties as allowable by law and as directed by the dentist.

• Ensure effective relationships within and among department staff and other functional areas within WCHC.

• Develop favorable relationships with vendors and related external entities.

• Bilingual employees:
  Provide communication and translation assistance to patients within the role scope

Qualifications & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Completion of an accredited dental hygienist program

• Current state-specific Registered Dental Hygienist licensure

• Current CPR required

• Certification to administer local anesthesia preferred

• Proficient knowledge of dentistry procedures and clinic infection control procedures

• Proficient in dental terminology

• Knowledge of dental codes

• Knowledge of Electronic Health Record (EHR)

• Proficiency in dental software…