Dental Hygienist - Adults & Children

A pediatric dental hygienist promotes oral hygiene and teaches proper dental care to children, adolescents, and young adults. Working with kids presents unique challenges, especially when they are anxious about dental visits. You may need to help calm them while also performing essential duties such as examining for oral diseases, assessing needs, and recognizing signs of abuse or neglect.

Job Duties:

- Prepare the treatment room according to established protocols.

- Welcome, soothe, seat, and drape patients for dental hygiene treatments.

- Respond to questions and requests from patients and staff.

- Maintain instruments by sharpening, sterilizing, and selecting appropriate tools.

- Evaluate oral health to select materials and equipment for each visit.

- Perform dental prophylaxis by cleaning teeth and addressing gum health.

- Conduct oral cancer screenings and develop radiographic studies to detect diseases.

- Apply fluorides and other agents to prevent cavities.

- Fabricate temporary restorations and clean removable appliances.

- Assist in managing dental emergencies by keeping CPR certification and emergency supplies current.

- Educate patients on oral hygiene practices and postoperative care.

- Document services by recording vital signs and medical histories in patient records.

- Ensure confidentiality to maintain patient trust.

- Keep the work environment safe and clean by following regulations and protocols.

- Adhere to infection control policies to protect patients and staff.

- Maintain dental equipment through preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.

- Monitor dental supplies, anticipate needs, and place orders as required.

- Use resources efficiently to achieve desired outcomes.

- Stay updated with professional knowledge through workshops and publications.

- Contribute to team success by completing related tasks as needed.

- Administer anesthesia to children using Novocain or nitrous oxide when necessary.