Dental Hygienist

Overview: Under the supervision of a licensed Dentist, the Dental Hygienist provides preventive and therapeutic oral health services within the scope of practice as defined by New York State. This role supports high-quality, patient-centered care in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), including in-person and tele-dental services, patient education, and accurate clinical documentation.

Essential Job Duties

Clinical & Preventive Care

· Perform dental hygiene procedures permitted under New York State law and ADHA guidelines, including:

o Scaling and root planing, suture removal

o Removal of calculus, stains, and accretions

o Polishing teeth and restorations

o Application of topical fluoride, anesthetics, topical medications 

o Placement of pit and fissure sealants

o Exposure and processing of x-rays

o Placement/removal of rubber dams, matrix bands, periodontal dressings

o Placement/removal of temporary non-metallic restorations

o Taking impressions for study casts

o Application of topical medications not related to prophylaxis

· Charting caries, periodontal conditions, and oral health findings

· Collect and document medical/dental histories, vital signs, and patient assessments

· Provide patient education on oral hygiene, disease prevention, and treatment plans

· Conduct tele-dental exams under the direction of a licensed Dentist

· Support a collaborative and collegial work environment adhering to DFCC policies, NYS regulations, HIPPA, infectious control, OSHA and universal precautions et, al. 

· Support quality assurance, patient safety, and regulatory compliance initiatives

· Deliver compassionate, culturally responsive, and respectful patient care

· Communicate effectively with dentists, clinical staff, and interdisciplinary care teams

· Assist with patient flow and time management to optimize access and efficiency

Professional & Organizational Responsibilities

· Maintain active certification, participate in continuing education and professional development

· Support the mission, values, and service standards of Damian Family Care Centers

· Maintain a clean, safe, and therapeutic clinical environment

· Follow attendance, punctuality, dress code, and professional conduct policies

· Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures, fire safety, and facility safety plans

Non-Essential Job Duties

· Provide cross-coverage or assistance in other clinical or administrative areas during emergencies

· Participate in community outreach, health promotion events, or special projects

· Support training or mentoring activities for students or new staff

· Perform additional related duties as assigned

 Qualifications & Skills

· Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program

· Current New York State Dental Hygienist license and registration with one year of experience

· English proficiency required; Spanish bilingual skills a plus

· Computer proficiency, including electronic dental/medical record systems

· Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

· Commitment to patient-centered care with empathy, professionalism, and respect

Physical & Work Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential function

· Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout a clinical environment for extended periods

· Manual dexterity to perform dental procedures

· Visual and auditory ability sufficient for patient assessment and equipment use

· Ability to lift or carry up to 20 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation 

· Ability to use a computer and office equipment for documentation and communication

· Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically

· Ability to travel within the community for outreach or referral support