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In this article, we will talk about the role a job description has for both dental hygienists and dental offices looking to hire dental hygienists. 

We will also provide two examples and templates of job descriptions for dental hygienists. 

Let's get started . . . 

Dental Hygienist Job Description

Job descriptions are essential for dental offices looking to hire a dental hygienist and for dental hygienists looking for a permanent position. 

Why? 

Let's find out. . . 

Why a Job Description Matters for Dental Hygienists

Job descriptions are possibly the first point of contact a hygienist has to a potential dental office. And as such dental hygienist job descriptions matter to hygienists because dental hygienists screen job descriptions when deciding what positions to apply to. 

What might a dental hygienist screen a job description for? What questions might they be asking themselves when evaluating a potential job? They may ask the five questions as a screening process: 

Does the office offer: 

1. Pay: The pay range is the hygienist looking for? 
2. Culture: The office culture the hygienist is looking for? 
3. Benefits: Does the office offer the benefits the hygienist is looking for? 
4. Schedule: Does the offer hours for the position that support the dental hygienist's desired schedule? 
5. Skills: Do the skills and experience match what the hygienist has to offer? 

Why a Job Description Matters for Dental Offices 

Job descriptions for a dental hygienist and what is included in the job description matter to the dental office who is hiring because a dental hygienist job description is a dental office's point of contact to potential candidates. 

As a dental office, the job description for a dental hygienist position needs to be written with the following question in mind: What type of dental hygienist candidates are we looking to attract? 

Making a list of who you are trying to attract as a candidate can help a dental office create a job description. 

Be sure to provide a detailed job description to communicate potential new hygienists ' responsibilities clearly. 

Every dental hygienist job description needs to have the following included to provide prospective applicants the information required to decide if what you have to offer is what they are looking for: 

• Abilities for working as a dental hygienist at your office should be specified 
• Necessary prerequisites
• Skills 
• Responsibilities  
• What your office offers (work environment, benefits, perks, compensation range) 

Here are a few to consider when writing a job description for a dental hygienist or looking for a position as a dental hygienist . . . 

What Are the Skills of a Dental Hygienist?

• Proven experience as Dental Hygienist or similar role
• Great attention to detail.
• Good problem solver to handle unique challenges with different patients.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledgeable about oral hygiene and dental health.
• Ability to administer local anesthetic agents.
• Comfortable using computers for a variety of tasks.

What are the Duties of a Dental Hygienist?

• Cleaning accretions, calcareous deposits, and stains from teeth and beneath gum borders with dental equipment.
• Making a note of and evaluating the patient's medical history.
• Examining and locating recessed periodontal gums and other symptoms of gum disease with probes.
• Keeping the dental equipment and x-ray machine in perfect condition.
• Examining and feeling the gums for signs of infection, sores, and other dental problems.
• Collaboration with dentists and dental hygienists.
• Maintaining a patient dental hygiene regimen.

Up next, let's look at two different dental hygienist job description templates and examples. . . 

Dental Hygienist Job Description Template and Example #1 

For our expanding dental office, we're looking for a dental hygienist. You'll help the dentist with numerous operations and x-ray equipment operations. It would help if you had a current State hygiene license, up-to-date vaccinations, and previous experience as a dental hygienist to succeed in this position.

You should be dependable and create trust with patients of all ages as a Dental Hygienist. Must have a thorough understanding of relevant health and safety regulations and a keen eye for oral disorders and irregularities. A steady hand and a pleasant bedside manner is also an advantage. 

Are you interested in joining our team? 

Please send your resume and cover letter to: [email].  

Dental Hygienist Job Description Template and Example #2 

About Our Dental Office

We currently have the opportunity to add another positive, driven, patient-focused individual to our dental team in [City]. 

We believe that each team member adds value to their role by enhancing their skills and knowledge. We are looking for a dental hygienist committed to excellence in their actions, words, and intentions; who strives to be the best version of themselves while constantly growing and innovating to serve our patients better. 

Our dental team members are stewards of our practice's positive reputation in the community; they support and empower one another. They recognize the value of celebrating one another's successes. They are the primary clinical provider for our primary care services. 

Our dental hygienist will provide the highest level of care, demonstrate leadership, and embody the office's teamwork culture.

 We are a modern, growth-oriented dental practice that provides exceptional dental care, has an excellent work culture, and strives to leave a positive footprint in our community. 

Our office also provides our patients with cutting-edge technology. We use advanced digital technology such as iTero, lasers, and digital radiographs.

What We Offer: 

-We provide a positive, meaningful, challenging, and supportive work environment.

- Career mobility with long-term opportunities for growth and development.

- A competitive salary combined with a comprehensive benefits package includes family dental care, paid time off, and position-specific incentive plans.

- The chance to serve unique patients and participate in community outreach events.

- A work schedule that is convenient for personal and professional development.

- A technologically advanced, growth-oriented dental practice

Experience Required:

- Familiarity with dental procedures and terminology.

- Direct experience with and knowledge of Dentrix.

- X-Ray certification is required.

- A dental hygiene associate and/or bachelor's degree.

- Completion of an accredited Dental Hygiene program, as well as the required RDH licensing.

- A certificate in CPR.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

- Excellent communication skills and a patient-centered attitude

- Attention to detail and strong organization skills.

- The ability to direct patient flow throughout the office.

- A desire to work as part of a team.

- Reliable and truthful.

- Carry out duties within the scope of an RDH's practice, such as performing dental hygiene screenings and cleanings.

- Enter and keep records up to date, as well as manage customer medical history records.

- Examine the mouth, teeth, gums, and related facial structures as needed, and treat dental problems/diseases as needed.

- Keep medical equipment and/or instruments in good working order and sterilize them.

- Counsel customers, program participants, and/or caregivers on health and wellness.

- Assist in maintaining a clean, courteous, and professional working environment.

Please submit three things:

1. Cover letter detailing why you feel you would be a good fit for this position
2. Resume with Work History and References
3. Compensation expectations

More Information 

Looking for more information? Check out these other articles: 

Job seekers: 28 Arizona Staffing Agencies 

Dental offices looking to hire: Benefits Of Choosing A Dental Staffing Agency For Your Business. 

 

 

 

 

 

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