Dental Hygienist - OR

Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled and patient-focused Dental Hygienist to support the delivery of high-quality oral healthcare services in a clinical setting. Working closely with dentists, this role provides preventive care, periodontal treatment, and patient education to promote long-term oral health and well-being. The Dental Hygienist utilizes clinical expertise and strong interpersonal skills to educate, motivate, and guide patients in preventing oral disease while maintaining accurate clinical documentation and adhering to established standards of care.

Key Responsibilities

• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices and preventive dental care

• Perform comprehensive patient charting, including presenting concerns, medical and dental histories, periodontal charting, and tooth charting

• Review and update the patient's social and health history at each visit

• Reinforce treatment plans and oral health goals with patients

• Attend required office trainings, meetings, and continuing education programs

• Clean and prepare hygiene rooms; sterilize instruments and ensure room readiness

• Expose, process, and evaluate dental radiographs

• Record patient vital signs, including blood pressure, temperature, respiration, color, and pulse

• Place and restore fillings when applicable and approved by the Dental Director (experienced hygienists only)

• Perform clinical procedures, including but not limited to:

  • Prophylaxis, scaling, root planing, and closed gingival curettage

  • Oral cavity inspections

  • Application of topical anticariogenic agents

  • Temporary soft relines to full dentures

  • Nitrous oxide administration under indirect supervision (with Class I Nitrous Permit)

  • Fabrication of bleaching trays, mouth guards, and night guards

  • Bleaching kits and patient recare appointments

  • Radiographs, sealants, fluoride applications, and polishing of teeth and restorations

  • Administration of local anesthesia

• Perform additional duties as assigned

Desired Skills

• Dental Radiology certification

• CPR and First Aid certification

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with patients, dentists, and staff

• Familiarity with modern dental office equipment, systems, and administrative procedures

• Bilingual (Spanish-speaking) skills preferred

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited dental hygiene program

• Active and unrestricted license to practice dental hygiene in the State of Oregon

• Current CPR and First Aid certification