BASIC FUNCTION:

Provides dental prophylaxis to patients and educates patients about the need for proper oral hygiene care, as well as, assists the Dentist in the delivery of other oral health services in accordance with Missouri Dental Board Dental Practice Act and Rules ~ State of Missouri.

I. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Greets patients and escorts to treatment area.

2. Performs dental prophylaxis through cleaning, scaling and polishing of teeth and restorations.

3. Exposes various x-ray films, as directed.

4. Provides instruction to patients on appropriate or needed oral hygiene care based on the evaluation of each patient. Instructs patients in diet and nutrition for dental health.

5. Applies topical fluoride and any prescribed topical medicament, antiseptic sprays and rinses.

6. Assists other staff members in assuring that treatment areas are kept clean and sanitized.

7. Determines appropriate time interval between cleanings based on evaluation of each patient and assists with future scheduling of patients.

8. Applies pit and fissure sealants to sound teeth as treatment planned by Dentist.

9. Maintains the physical condition of the clinical area and dental equipment and instruments used.

10. Maintains Universal Precautions.

11. Performs initial examination of teeth and tissue for carious lesions, periodontal pockets and other abnormal conditions. Informs Dentist of any problems.

12. Assists dental providers in treatments, diagnostic exams etc. as needed.

13. Coordinates patient recall system.

14. Maintains records and statistical data as assigned.

15. Computer use and knowledge.

16. Maintains CPR Certification, continuing education requirements for/and licensure.

17. Monitors procedures such as preliminary review of the patient’s health history, dental charting, oral analysis, and taking and recording blood pressure and other vital signs.

18. Removes plaque and calculus from above and below the gumline.

19. Performs other duties as assigned and within the scope of practice facility in accordance with the State of Missouri Dental Board Dental Practice Act and Rules.

II. QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Graduate from a nationally accredited school of Dental Hygiene required.

2. License to practice in the State of Missouri and in good standing required.

3. Previous training and/or experience as a Dental Assistant (Certified or expanded duties) desirable.

4. One or more years successful work experience as Dental Hygienist preferred.

5. Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) or Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH) in the State of Missouri required.

III. CONTINUED EDUCATION:

As required by the State of Missouri Dental Board Dental Practice Act and Rules.