JOB TITLE: DENTAL HYGIENIST

JOB CODE: 33960

DEFINITION: This is technical work in performing dental prophylaxis and providing assistance to a dentist.

An employee in this job performs dental prophylaxis procedures required to remove calculus deposits, accretions, excess or flash restorative materials and stains from the exposed surfaces of the teeth and beneath the gingiva. This involves evaluating patients to identify hygiene needs, determining dental hygiene treatment plans for patients, and providing instruction to patients for dental hygiene practices. This work also involves providing assistance to dentists during dental procedures and performing a variety of clerical tasks to facilitate successful operation of the dental office. Work is performed under the direct and general supervision of a dentist in accordance with established rules and regulations and is reviewed through observation, evaluation of results obtained, and periodic reports.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Evaluates patients to collect and record data and identify dental hygiene care needs.

• Applies fluorides and other recognized topical agents for the prevention of oral diseases.

• Performs periodontal probing, scaling, root planning, polishing, or other preventive dental procedures.

• Places subgingival agents, conditions teeth, and applies sealants.

• Prepares and applies topical anesthetics.

• Files, retrieves, and maintains dental records and reports.

• Schedules appointments and maintains appointment call and recall list.

• Sets up procedural trays and tools for procedures.

• Positions patients in chair appropriately, places protective napkin, and provides antibacterial rinse.

• Charts findings of the mouth as identified by a dentist.

• Transfers instruments and materials to the dentist during procedures, and utilizes tools to maintain appropriate retraction, suction, irrigation, and drying.

• Operates radiological equipment to expose and process radiographic images; evaluates and labels images appropriately.

• Sterilizes, secures, and maintains inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies.

• Prepares requests for the replenishment of inventory.

• Provides patients with preventative dental education.

• Takes impressions of teeth for study casts; pours, trims, and polishes study casts.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of dental hygiene practices and techniques.

• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology as it pertains to dental health.

• Knowledge of dental radiographic equipment and techniques.

• Knowledge of radiation safety for patients and operators.

• Knowledge of infection control techniques.

• Knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.

• Ability to use and sterilize dental instruments and equipment.

• Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

• Possession of a license to practice as a dental hygienist as issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry.