Job Details Job Location: Echo Park Health Center - Los Angeles, CA Salary Range: $50.96 - $81.35 Hourly
The Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a preventive oral health professional. The RDH works in partnership with dentists to provide optimal oral healthcare to the public. Responsibilities include making clinical dental hygiene decisions, planning, implementing, and evaluating the dental hygiene component of the patient's overall oral health. The role involves routine prophylaxes, deep cleanings (with or without local anesthetic), and oral health education. The RDH must hold a professional license and possess specialized skills.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports and implements the organization's vision, mission, and values.
- Determines priorities and methods to complete daily workload efficiently.
- Performs all functions professionally and courteously, including timely communication with patients and colleagues.
- Promotes a culture of service excellence and accountability.
- Provides preventive and educational dental services to patients.
- Prepares and disinfects operatories per Universal Precautions and OSHA Guidelines before and after treatments.
- Sterilizes dental instruments following safety guidelines.
- Obtains and processes x-rays as needed.
- Maintains accurate patient records.
- Performs dental and periodontal charting, including pocket depths and mobility assessments.
- Removes plaque and calculus above and below the gumline.
- Applies caries-preventive agents such as fluoride and sealants.
- Administers local anesthetic agents when supervised by a dentist.
- Treats an adequate number of patients daily to support organizational goals.
- Documents procedures thoroughly, including areas treated, anesthetic used, tissue descriptions, and post-op instructions.
- Provides oral health education on diet, brushing, flossing, and other topics.
- Documents educational interactions and reports accurately.
- Seeks guidance from supervisors when necessary.
- Participates in peer review, orientation, and committee activities as requested.
- Monitors supplies and materials to help control costs.
- Maintains professional appearance per organizational policies.
- Handles sensitive information discreetly and courteously, responding promptly to inquiries.
- Complies with all organizational policies and procedures.
- Performs additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, candidates must meet the following requirements. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities.
Education/Experience
- Registered Dental Hygienist License issued by the Dental Board of California.
- X-ray License issued by the Dental Board of California.
- Clean record with Medi-Cal and private dental insurance providers.
- At least 3 years of related experience preferred.
- Experience with Patient Centered Medical Home model preferred.
- Proficiency in Spanish is a plus.
- Experience with Dentrix software preferred.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize, and handle pressure effectively.
Language Skills
Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and other documents; communicate effectively with staff and patients.
Other Skills and Abilities
- Organizational and prioritization skills with minimal supervision.
- Judgment and independence in performing duties.
- Flexibility, attention to detail, multitasking abilities.
- Awareness of safety and privacy protocols.
- Respect for diverse backgrounds and values.
- Timeliness and dependability.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Electronic Medical/Dental Record systems.
- Willingness to work in various organizational areas as needed.
- Active licensure with ongoing continuing education and certifications.