We are looking for a Dental Hygienist to help treat patients and promote good oral health practices. What do Dental Hygienists do? Dental Hygienist duties revolve around conducting initial patient screenings, cleaning teeth (e.g. removing plaque) and advising patients on oral health and preventative care. You’ll help dentists decide treatments for teeth or gum diseases. As a Dental Hygienist, you should be reliable and able to build trust with patients of all ages. You should have deep knowledge of relevant health and safety rules and a good eye for oral diseases and anomalies. If you have a steady hand and great bedside manner, we’d like to meet you.
Responsibilities
Ensure patients feel as comfortable as possible before their examination
Sterilize dental instruments properly
Conduct initial mouth screenings and check oral health history
Identify conditions like gingivitis, caries or periodontitis
Clean and help protect patients’ teeth (e.g. remove plaque or apply fluoride)
Educate patients of all ages on proper teeth care (by demonstrating, for example, good brushing techniques)
Give instructions to patients after operations or other dental procedures
Take X-rays or dental impressions
Assist dentists with selecting appropriate treatments for various diseases (including oral cancer)
Maintain documentation and charts on each patient
Monitor supplies
Skills
· Empathy and compassion for the patients.
· Attention to details with an ability to follow the hygiene clock.
· Optimism- ability to inspire patients that their gingival health will get better by being at Smiles on the Upper West Side
· Outstanding communication skills - relay critical information in a clear and concise manner so that our patients and team members can understand.
· Flexibility-Ability to handle last minute modifications to the schedule, responsibilities, and patient treatments.
In-depth knowledge of health and safety regulations in this profession.
Display confidence and seek out appropriate help and advice.
· Problem solving skills- A quick thinker that can create effective solutions.
· Respect- Mutual respect for patients and team members alike.
· Most importantly a sense of humor- have to be able to find humor in difficult situations
Proven experience as a Dental Hygienist or similar role
Experience in preparing and maintaining dental equipment
· A patient and friendly personality
Stamina to meet the physical demands of the job
Diploma in Dental Hygiene
Valid license to practice in NYC.
