270 - Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist contributes to Morris Heights Health Center's continued success by passionately promoting the company culture, mission, vision and values. This Job Description identifies the major responsibilities of the practice of dental hygiene, either under the supervision of a licensed dentist or pursuant to a collaborative arrangement, in accordance with the New York State Education Law. 
The Dental Hygienist is a highly effective dental clinic care provider that works collaboratively with the dental care team in providing assessments of the oral/ maxillofacial area to aid in the diagnosing and treatment planning by a supervising dentist, in preventing and treating diseases of the oral cavity through dental hygiene functions, by performing public health and educational functions through work in School Based Health Program, and by performing dental supportive services as authorized by a licensed dentist. 

•    Provides the practice of dental hygiene, under the general supervision of a licensed dentist or pursuant to a collaborative arrangement as defined in accordance with the NY State Education Law.
•    Removing calcareous deposits, accretions and stains, including scaling and planning of exposed root surface indicated for a complete prophy !axis
•    Applying topical anticariogenic agents, including but not limited to topical fluoride applications, and performing topical anesthetic applications
•    Applying pit and fissure sealants
•    Applying desensitizing agents to the teeth
•    Performing dental and/or periodontal assessments, including but not limited to periodontal charting, as an aid to diagnosis by the dentist
•    Taking dental radiographs
•    Sets up and breaks down room, cleans and sterilizes instruments as per policy and procedure
•    Taking and assessing medical history including the measuring and recording of vital signs as an aid to diagnosis by the dentist
•    Provides patient education and counseling relating to the improvement of oral health
•    Maintains current and accurate dental records
•    Advises patients concerning oral health and preventive activities.

•    Consults with Dental Director, on matters pertaining to Center's oral health services.
•    Participates in departmental and Center meetings as needed.
•    Interacts with other medical specialties and departments as needed
•    Participates in Departments outreach or educational programs as needed.
•    Participates in School Based Health Program activities, including school screenings.
•    Helps to resolve patient care issues or patient concerns as they arise.
•    Represents dental department in meetings and committees as needed or assigned
•    Takes part in Performance Improvement activities as needed/assigned.
•    Follows all safety/infection control guidelines of MHHC/OSHAINYS/NYC/JC or other regulatory bodies
•    Performs other department-related tasks as needed.