Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

A. Overall Purpose of the Role

The Dental Hygienist or Assistant is essential in facilitating effective dental care by preparing treatment rooms, patients, instruments, and materials, as well as passing instruments and materials during procedures in accordance with the dental practice act. Responsibilities may also include mixing filling compounds, take impressions of teeth, and provide postoperative instructions within their scope of practice. Additionally, the Dental Hygienist or Assistant will handle initial triage of patients.

B. Key Responsibilities

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluate walk-in patients to determine potential diagnosis, acuity, and urgency of treatment need.
• Conduct thorough assessments of patients' oral health, including examining teeth and gums, identifying any signs of oral disease.
• Take dental X-rays and perform other diagnostic tests to assist in the diagnosis of oral health issues.
• Support dentists during procedures by preparing and sterilizing instruments, setting up treatment rooms, providing chairside assistance, and assisting with various tasks.
• May remove sutures; apply topical anaesthetics.
• Collaborate with other medical providers to coordinate dental care plans and ensure the delivery of comprehensive, patient-centred care.
• Adhere to strict infection control protocols to ensure a clean and safe environment for patients and staff.
• Ensure patient comfort and provide compassionate care addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in dental hygiene practices and technologies through continuing education and professional development.
• Orders and maintains inventory of supplies at necessary par levels.
• Participate in mass-casualty drills twice a year and remain available for on-call coverage.
• Complete required organizational compliance education, including assigned requirements that are client-specified, for Joint Commission Healthcare Staffing Services certification or other regulatory bodies.

This list is non-exhaustive, and the role holder may be required to undertake additional duties that are not specifically listed above.

Desired Candidate Profile

Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace safety and engage in customer interactions with diplomacy and professionalism. Successful applicants will be team players who excel in a diverse and multicultural environment, showing cultural sensitivity in their approach to patient care and collaboration with colleagues. They should also feel at ease in industrial settings and have a proven track record of self-improvement.