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Position Description
Dental Hygienist Job Description
A pediatric dental hygienist encourages oral hygiene and teaches proper dental care to children, adolescents, and young adult dental patients. The role involves calming children who may be afraid of dental visits, examining patients for oral diseases, assessing their needs, and recognizing signs of child abuse and neglect.
Dental Hygienist Job Duties:
- Prepare treatment room for patients by adhering to procedures and protocols.
- Welcome, soothe, seat, and drape patients to prepare them for treatment.
- Provide information to patients and staff by answering questions and requests.
- Maintain dental instruments through sharpening, sterilizing, and selecting appropriate tools.
- Select materials and equipment based on patient’s oral health assessment.
- Perform dental prophylaxis by cleaning deposits and stains from teeth and beneath gum margins.
- Detect oral diseases through cancer screenings, visual examinations, and radiographic studies.
- Apply fluorides and other agents to prevent cavities.
- Fabricate temporary restorations, clean and polish appliances, and remove cement from crowns and bridges to maintain patient appearance and function.
- Assist in managing emergencies by maintaining CPR certification and emergency supplies.
- Educate patients on oral hygiene, plaque control, and postoperative care, and remind them of upcoming visits.
- Document services by recording vital signs, histories, and charting in patient records.
- Maintain confidentiality and protect patient information.
- Ensure a safe and clean working environment by following infection control procedures.
- Operate and maintain dental equipment, troubleshoot malfunctions, and evaluate new techniques.
- Manage dental supplies inventory by monitoring stock levels and placing orders.
- Use resources efficiently to conserve supplies and equipment.
- Enhance professional knowledge through education and participation in professional societies.
- Contribute to team efforts by accomplishing related tasks as needed.
- You may also administer anesthesia, such as Novocain and nitrous oxide, to children.