We are seeking a Dental Hygienist
to join our team. The North Idaho Panhandle is a four-season recreation paradise, with friendly folks, little traffic, an abundance of amenities, and excellent schools. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and come live, work, and play in one of the most beautiful small towns in the northwest!
Job Summary
The mission of Kaniksu Community Health is to provide access to comprehensive and integrated primary care services (defined as the concurrent prevention and management of physical, oral and emotional health problems addressed holistically with the Patient Centered Medical Home Model of Care. The KCH Dental Hygienist and the KCH Staff Dentist work together to meet the oral health needs of patients. The Dental Hygienist shall possess demonstrated ability to perform as a team player, maintains positive peer relationships and provides assistance in a friendly, helpful manner to all patients, visitors, and staff. Possesses the ability to work independently, is detail oriented, self-directed, organized, and works under pressure to meet deadlines. Must have consistent work attendance record. Demonstrates cultural sensitivity. Understands and practices confidentiality, following HIPAA and OSHA guidelines.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Reports to the Dental Director, works cooperatively with all KCH Dentists, Coordinator – KCH Dental Services, Dental Staff and KCH Managers at all times. Advises and assists other coordinators, Dental Assistants, in accordance with priorities established by the Dental Director and Chief Executive Officer.
- Patient screening procedures; such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting and taking blood pressure and pulse.
- Taking and developing dental radiographs (X-Rays).
- Removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth.
- Applying preventive materials to the teeth (e.g. sealants and fluorides).
- Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health (e.g. tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
- Counseling patients regarding good nutrition and its impact on oral health.
- Making impressions for patients’ teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists to evaluate patient treatment needs).
- Performing documentation and office management activities.
- Patient and Community Education
- Delivering patient personal oral care instructions.
- Delivering community dental health presentations.
- Planning, setting-up and manning health fair booths.
Qualifications
- Academic degree (Masters Degree, Bachelors Degree, Associate Degree) from a community college, technical college, dental school or university required.
- Licensed in the State of Idaho for “registered dental hygienist – RDH” status required.
- Personal commitment to the organization’s mission and values.
- Advanced, extensive, and documented experience in general office administration and office functions.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to maintain corporate confidentially and HIPAA compliance.
- The ability to work in the absence of direct supervision.
- Excellent time management and critical thinking skills.
- Tact and graciousness in dealing with the public, continuous professionalism with patients and co-workers.