Temp Dental Hygienist

West-Hartford-Dental-Associates; West Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

West-Hartford-Dental-Associates is seeking a Temp Dental Hygienist to join our Clinical Operations team from January 2027 through May 2027. The role runs Monday through Thursday with specific hours: Mon-Wed 7:30 am–6:00 pm and Thu 7:30 am–2:00 pm, with flexibility for extended hours as needed.

The Hygienist will deliver preventive and therapeutic care, document findings, educate patients, and collaborate closely with dentists to ensure high-quality, patient-centered care in a modern practice

Qualifications

• Active Dental Hygienist license required.
• Current CPR certification required.
• New graduates welcome to apply.
• Strong communication, patient education, and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of HIPAA and patient privacy standards.
• Detail-oriented with commitment to clinical excellence.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Experience with Carestack or similar dental software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide preventive dental care, including prophylaxis cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and periodontal maintenance.
• Perform periodontal assessments and therapies, including SRP and ongoing periodontal maintenance.
• Take dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and company standards.
• Maintain accurate patient records and treatment plans in Carestack.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene and periodontal health.
• Communicate professionally with patients and team members.
• Assist dentists in diagnosis and planning of patient treatment.
• Ensure sterilization, maintenance, and proper organization of instruments.

Skills

CPR certification

Communication skills

HIPAA knowledge

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Patient education

Adaptability

Documentation

Education

Active Dental Hygienist license (state)

Tools

Carestack

Job description

Job Title: Temp Dental Hygienist
Department: Clinical Operations
Reports To: Practice Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

We’re looking for a TEMP Dental Hygienist to join our team Monday through Thursday, starting in January 2027 through the end of May 2027.

Schedule

Mon - Wed: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Thurs: 7:30 am - 2:00 pm

* The practice can have flexible hours for this position

Position Summary

The Dental Hygienist is responsible for delivering high-quality preventive and therapeutic dental care while promoting overall oral health and patient wellness. This role partners closely with dentists and the broader clinical team to provide an exceptional patient experience through patient education, clinical treatment, and compassionate care.

The Dental Hygienist plays a key role in supporting periodontal health, maintaining accurate clinical documentation, and ensuring patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their visit. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, patient-focused, and committed to clinical excellence while contributing to a collaborative and positive practice environment.

About Us

We are a growing, dentist-owned dental group dedicated to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. Our team is built on collaboration, clinical excellence, and a shared commitment to creating a positive experience for both patients and team members.

We foster a supportive and engaging environment where clinicians can thrive and continue to develop their skills. Our practices are equipped with advanced technology, including intraoral cameras, cavitrons, digital scanners, and Dexis digital x-ray sensors. We utilize Carestack, a modern, cloud-based practice management platform, along with Hu-Friedy EverEdge instruments to support efficient, high-quality care.

Ongoing training and professional development are a core part of our commitment to our team.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Duties

• Provide preventive dental care, including prophylaxis cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and periodontal maintenance.
• Perform periodontal assessments and therapies, including scaling and root planing (SRP) and ongoing periodontal maintenance.
• Take dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and company standards.
• Maintain accurate and thorough patient records, clinical notes, and treatment plans within Carestack software.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices, periodontal health, and overall oral health maintenance.
• Effectively motivate and support patients in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.
• Assist in identifying and communicating patient treatment needs to the dentist.
• Ensure and assist in proper sterilization, maintenance, and organization of instruments and equipment for the practice team.
• Maintain compliance with infection control, OSHA, HIPAA, and safety standards.
• Support an efficient patient schedule while maintaining a high standard of patient care and comfort.
• Other related duties as assigned to support practice operations and patient care.
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and compassionately with patients and team members.
• Partner closely with dentists and clinical team members to support comprehensive patient care.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and patient-focused office environment.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and responsiveness in daily responsibilities.
• Support consistency in patient care standards, workflows, and overall patient experience.
• Assist with operational needs as necessary to ensure smooth office flow.

Qualifications

• Active Dental Hygienist license in applicable state required.
• Current CPR certification required.
• New graduates of an accredited Dental Hygiene program are welcome to apply.
• Strong communication, patient education, and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of HIPAA and patient privacy standards.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to clinical excellence.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Experience with Carestack or similar dental software preferred.

Characteristics

• Strong clinical knowledge and patient care skills.
• Passionate about preventive care and patient education.
• Friendly, professional, and patient-focused demeanor.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work efficiently while maintaining quality patient care.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.
• Adaptable and eager to continue professional growth and development.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and work chairside for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity to operate dental instruments and equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally.

Work Schedule

• Schedules may vary based on patient volume and office needs.
• Flexibility may be required to support operational and patient care needs across Plum practices.
• Promote and attend CE events