Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native beneficiaries. Working under the general supervision of a licensed dentist, the hygienist supports the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model and helps meet clinical performance indicators.

Location:

Taos-Picuris Health Center, Taos, NM

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Services

-Perform dental prophylaxis, scaling and root planning, oral debridement, and periodontal assessments.

-Conduct oral cancer screenings and perform radiographic procedures.

-Apply topical fluorides, pit and fissure sealants, and other preventive agents.

-Administer local anesthesia and deliver locally delivered antimicrobials.

-Identify and chart conditions of decay and periodontal disease.

-Fabricate temporary restorations and clean/polish removable dental appliances.

-Assist with dental and medical emergencies within the scope of practice.

Patient Care and Education

-Prepare treatment rooms and patients according to established protocols.

-Provide oral hygiene instruction, plaque control guidance, and post-treatment instructions to patients.

-Respond to patient questions and concerns professionally.

Documentation and Administrative Support

-Document all patient encounters in the IHS Dentrix system on the date of service.

-Maintain strict patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA and the Privacy Act.

-Ensure all chart deficiencies are completed within 24 hours of notification.

-Maintain dental instruments through proper cleaning, sterilization, and sharpening.

-Monitor and conserve dental supplies and equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

- Education:

Associate or Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited institution.

-Licensure:
Current, active, and unrestricted Dental Hygienist license from any U.S. state or territory.

- Experience:

At least three (3) years of dental hygiene experience, including work with both adult and pediatric populations.

- Certifications:

oCurrent radiography (X-ray) certification.

oAuthorization to administer local anesthetics (if applicable by state law).

oCurrent Basic Life Support (BLS)

Compliance and Requirements

-Background Check:
Must successfully complete a background investigation, including e-QIP, Indian Child Protection Act (P.L. 101-630), and character investigations.

-Training:
Must complete Information Systems Security Awareness (ISSA), HIPAA, and Privacy Act training

-Citizenship:
Must be US Citizen

Compensation details: Yearly Salary

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