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Dental Hygienist Job Description Template
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Dental Hygienist Job Description Template

Job Description Template

Dental Hygienist Description Template

September 2, 2021

Dental Hygienist Job Description Template

Looking for a Dental Hygienist that fits your needs? To help you with this, we created a Free Dental Hygienist Job Description Template.

You can also add more demands to the template to customize it to your needs. Use VIVAHR software to post the template on various hiring websites and get the best hiring results.

Ready? Let’s go! 🚀

What is a Dental Hygienist?

A Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral healthcare professional who specializes in preventive dental care, including cleaning teeth, examining patients for oral diseases, and educating them on maintaining good oral hygiene. They work closely with dentists to provide treatments such as fluoride applications and sealants, while also taking X-rays and documenting patient care. Employers hiring dental hygienists include private dental practices, community health clinics, corporate dental chains, and educational institutions with dental programs.

Related Job Titles for Dental Hygienist

The Top Dental Hygienist Skills

Skill Why it's important
Clinical Expertise

Dental hygienists need a deep understanding of oral health, dental procedures, and preventive care techniques to perform tasks like teeth cleaning, scaling, and applying fluoride. This skill ensures accurate and effective patient treatment, which is crucial for maintaining high standards in a dental practice. Employers value this because it directly impacts patient satisfaction and overall dental health outcomes.
Attention to Detail

Identifying early signs of oral diseases such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer requires precision. A detail-oriented dental hygienist can prevent more severe conditions by catching issues early. Employers prioritize this skill to maintain a proactive approach to patient care and uphold their reputation for thorough examinations.
Communication Skills

A dental hygienist must effectively educate patients about oral hygiene practices and explain procedures in a way that eases anxiety. Strong communication fosters trust and encourages patients to follow recommended care plans. For employers, this skill enhances patient retention and satisfaction.
Manual Dexterity

Performing precise tasks in small spaces, such as cleaning teeth or applying sealants, requires excellent hand-eye coordination and control. This skill ensures that procedures are conducted efficiently and without discomfort to the patient. Employers benefit from having a dental hygienist who can deliver high-quality care with minimal risk of errors.
Empathy and Interpersonal Skills

Dental visits can be stressful for many patients, and a compassionate hygienist can help ease fears and create a positive experience. By building rapport and showing empathy, dental hygienists encourage patient loyalty and cooperation, which is essential for maintaining a successful practice. Employers value this as it directly contributes to a supportive and welcoming practice environment.

Dental Hygienist Job Description Template (Free)

Are you a skilled dental professional dedicated to promoting oral health and hygiene? We’re seeking a motivated Dental Hygienist to join our team and play a crucial role in providing top-notch preventive dental care to our patients.

As a Dental Hygienist with our practice, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with our dental team to deliver comprehensive dental hygiene services. Your responsibilities will include conducting thorough cleanings, performing oral assessments, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques. With your expertise and attention to detail, you’ll help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment within our dental office.

If you’re passionate about improving oral health and enhancing patient satisfaction, we’d love to have you on board!

Dental Hygienist Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Perform thorough teeth cleanings, including scaling and polishing.
  • Conduct oral health assessments and screen for signs of oral diseases.
  • Educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices and preventive care.
  • Take and develop dental X-rays to assist in diagnosis.
  • Apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to protect teeth.
  • Maintain accurate patient records and document care provided.
  • Assist dentists during procedures as needed.
  • Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment.
  • Provide guidance on post-treatment care and follow-up instructions.
  • Stay updated on advancements in dental hygiene techniques and technologies.

Dental Hygienist Requirements:

  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited program.
  • Current state licensure to practice as a Dental Hygienist.
  • Certification in CPR and basic life support (BLS).
  • Proven experience as a Dental Hygienist is preferred, but not mandatory, for entry-level positions.
  • Proficiency in using dental equipment and tools, including X-ray machines and ultrasonic scalers.
  • Strong knowledge of dental hygiene procedures and oral health education.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients and team members.
  • Attention to detail and precision in performing dental hygiene tasks.
  • Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations.
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and learning.

Accounting Specialist Interview Questrions

Sample Interview Questions for a Dental Hygienist

The best way to find an ideal candidate for a job is to ask them questions that will allow you to gauge their ability and determine whether they are looking for a position that will push them in the right direction.

In addition, an interview gives employers the chance to establish whether the candidate has the skills needed for the position, try using our sample interview questions for a Dental Hygienist.

Personal
  1. What inspired you to pursue a career in dental hygiene?
  2. How do you handle stress or challenging situations in the workplace?
  3. Can you share a proud moment in your career as a dental hygienist?
Human Resources
  1. How do you handle conflicts with colleagues or team members?
  2. What steps do you take to maintain patient confidentiality?
  3. How would you address workplace policies or protocols you disagree with?
Management
  1. How do you prioritize your tasks during a busy workday?
  2. How do you ensure consistency and quality in your work?
  3. What steps would you take if a coworker was not adhering to proper hygiene standards?
Technical Skills and Knowledge
  1. How do you stay updated on the latest advancements in dental hygiene techniques?
  2. Can you describe the process you follow for a comprehensive periodontal assessment?
  3. How do you educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices?

What are the Educational Requirements for a Dental Hygienist?

A Dental Hygienist typically needs to have completed an associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program, though some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree for advanced roles or leadership positions. The candidate must also hold a state license to practice, which involves passing the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination and a state or regional clinical exam.

Additionally, a strong foundation in science courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology is essential, along with hands-on clinical training in patient care. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continuing education to stay updated on the latest dental hygiene practices and technologies.

How Much to Pay a Dental Hygienist when Hiring

Dental Hygienists often earn between $20 and $53 per hour.

The median yearly pay is $87,963, meaning $48 per hour.

These salaries depend on the area of employment, educational past, and prior expertise.

Percentile 10% 25% 50%
(Median)		 75% 90%
Hourly Wage $20 $37 $42 $48 $53
Annual Wage $42,000 $76,000 $87,963 $100,000 $112,000

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Hygienist

 

What qualifications are necessary to become a Dental Hygienist?

Dental Hygienists typically need an associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program and must be licensed in their state.

Some positions may require additional certifications or specialized training.

What are the primary responsibilities of a Dental Hygienist?

Dental Hygienists perform various tasks, including conducting dental cleanings, taking X-rays, performing oral assessments, applying fluoride treatments, and providing patient education on oral hygiene practices.

How does a Dental Hygienist contribute to the overall dental practice?

Dental Hygienists play a vital role in supporting the dentist by providing preventive care, identifying oral health issues early, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene habits.

Their work helps maintain patient oral health and enhances the efficiency of the dental practice.

What qualities should employers look for when hiring a Dental Hygienist?

Employers should seek candidates with strong communication skills, attention to detail, empathy, and a commitment to patient care.

Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in dental hygiene techniques and stay updated on industry trends and advancements.

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