Position Summary: Conducts preliminary dental examinations, performs hypertension and cancer screening, and provides non-surgical patient treatment procedures. Polishes patient teeth and applies fluoride in routine cleanings to prevent hypersensitivity and cavities. Provides patient with appropriate anesthetic during procedures and conveys post-operative home care instructions. Coordinates and participates in organizational and community dental education programs.
Critical Tasks:
- Conducts preliminary dental examinations and reviews patient medical and dental history to determine prior conditions that may lead to health complications.
- Performs hypertension and oral cancer screening, examines patient teeth and the surrounding tissues for evidence of disease or other ailments and records observations in patient record.
- Provides patient treatment in the form of oral prophylaxis and non-surgical periodontal procedures including sub-gingival scaling, root planning, and curettage.
- Polishes patient teeth and applies fluoride to prevent hypersensitivity and cavities.
- Prepares and takes oral x-rays as ordered by the dentist.
- Provides patient with appropriate anesthetic during operations, removes sutures, changes dressings, and provides post-operative home care and preventative dental habit instructions.
- Takes impressions of patient teeth for use in diagnostic models and the construction of mouth guards.
- Schedules regular follow-up appointments according to patient care needs and serves as the primary patient contact for oral health information.
- Oversees the procurement and routine maintenance of all periodontal equipment and instrumentation.
- Coordinates and participates in a variety of oral health education programs in order to educate staff, patients, and community members.
- Cleans and stores dental equipment and instrumentation after use.
- Performs other job-related activities as requested.
Required Qualifications:
- Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene or closely related field of study required.
- Current and valid AZ Dental Hygienist License within 1 year in position.
- 1 year of experience in a Dental clinic preferred.
- Current and continuing BLS training and certifications within 30 days in position.
- Demonstrates ability to relate to diverse cultures and specifically the Gila River Community and/or other Native American cultures and community health services.
