Hygienist

Progressive Dental Arts; Newark (DE); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Progressive Dental Arts is seeking a Registered Dental Hygienist to provide preventive care, periodontal therapy, and patient education in a welcoming, patient-centered environment. You will maintain radiographs and charting, perform prophylaxis and scaling, and collaborate with the dentist to promote long-term oral health.

A current RDH license, CPR/BLS, and anesthesia/nitrous certification (where allowed) are required.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in dental hygiene is required.
• Active state RDH license and CPR/BLS.
• Certification in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide where allowed.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with dental software and EHR systems.
• Ability to work in a patient-centered, compassionate manner.

Responsibilities

• Provide prophylaxis, scaling and root planing, and coronal polishing.
• Take and interpret radiographs per safety protocols.
• Perform periodontal charting and assess gingival health.
• Educate patients on at-home care and preventive strategies.
• Collaborate with dentist and clinical team to plan care.
• Maintain infection control and documentation.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Clinical skills

Attention to detail

Patient education

Team collaboration

Education

Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Dental software

EHR systems

Job description

The Registered Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral health professional responsible for providing comprehensive preventive care, periodontal therapy, and patient education. The RDH plays a critical role in identifying early signs of oral disease, supporting patient understanding, and collaborating with the dentist to promote long-term oral health. This position requires strong clinical judgment, excellent communication, and a patient-centered, compassionate approach.ServiceProviding compassionate, patient-first preventive care that supports comfort, trust, and long-term oral health.Create a welcoming, reassuring environment by building rapport and supporting patient comfort throughout hygiene appointments.Review medical history, discuss patient concerns, and explain procedures clearly to ensure understanding.Provide customized oral hygiene education, reinforcing preventive strategies and empowering patients to improve home care.Collaborate with the dentist and clinical team to ensure patients feel informed and supported at every step of their care.Demonstrate a high level of empathy, professionalism, and respect for patients of all backgrounds.MasteryDelivering excellent clinical hygiene care through precision, evidence-based practice, and a commitment to continual growth.Perform prophylaxis, periodontal charting, scaling and root planing, coronal polishing, and adjunctive therapies.Take and interpret radiographs following all state safety protocols and clinical guidelines.Conduct thorough oral health assessments including evaluation of gingival health, periodontal status, decay risk, and oral pathology.Maintain expertise in dental anatomy, periodontal therapy, infection control, and documentation of clinical findings.Stay current with continuing education to enhance clinical skills and ensure high-quality, evidence-based care.ImpactImproving patients’ quality of life and supporting the practice through effective periodontal care, early detection, and preventive strategies.Identify early signs of periodontal disease, decay, and oral abnormalities and communicate findings promptly to the dentist.Provide tailored treatment recommendations that support long-term patient health and strengthen case acceptance.Contribute to strong patient retention through exceptional service, preventive guidance, and continuity of care.Support practice performance by maintaining efficient hygiene schedules and minimizing downtime.Enhance patient outcomes by reinforcing consistent home-care practices and preventive maintenance.LeadershipModeling professionalism, teamwork, and integrity while guiding patients and supporting clinical colleagues.Lead patients toward healthier lifestyles through education, motivation, and clear communication.Serve as a clinical resource for assistants and administrative staff regarding preventive care, radiographs, and periodontal protocols.Maintain professionalism, ethical decision-making, and regulatory compliance at all times.Participate in team huddles, interdepartmental communication, and collaborative treatment planning to support optimal patient care.Uphold OSHA, CDC, and state standards for infection control and safety.ElevateEnhancing the patient experience and practice excellence through innovation, education, and continuous improvement.Identify opportunities to improve hygiene systems, patient education methods, and preventive care workflows.Promote the integration of new technologies, materials, and evidence-based protocols that improve outcomes.Contribute to a positive, growth-focused environment that supports team success and patient satisfaction.Participate in continuing education, staff meetings, and training sessions to stay aligned with practice standards.Elevate clinical quality by consistently delivering precise, thorough, and compassionate hygiene care.Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene required; bachelor’s degree preferred.Active state RDH licenseCurrent CPR/BLS certification.Certification in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide (state-dependent).Strong communication and interpersonal skills.Excellent clinical skills with attention to detail.Proficiency in dental software and EHR systems.Physical RequirementsAbility to sit, stand, or position for extended periods during clinical procedures.Manual dexterity for use of dental instruments and equipment.Ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed.