Multnomah County
Expanded Practice Dental Hygienist - Fernhill Clinic
Multnomah County, Portland, Oregon, United States, 97204
Overview
Expanded Practice Dental Hygienist – Fernhill Clinic at Multnomah County. This position provides direct periodontal and dental hygiene treatment and education in oral health maintenance and disease prevention to dental clinic patients and the community. The Dental Hygienist participates in clinical operations including disease control, prevention, sterilization, infection control, scheduling, and workflow improvement. The role supports a work culture of respect, trust and understanding for a diverse population and collaborates with dental staff to deliver quality care. Responsibilities
Provide clinical dental hygiene services, including prophylaxis, debridement, scaling and root planing, complete periodontal charting and periodontal treatment; administer topical and local anesthetic; expose and mount dental radiographs; place dental sealants; apply fluoride varnish; evaluate and record blood pressure; perform proper chart documentation. Address dental anxiety and, when appropriate, administer nitrous oxide to meet patient needs. Educate patients on preventive dental actions, demonstrate best brushing/cleaning techniques, discuss new products or methods, and provide written materials to reinforce oral health concepts. Demonstrate and teach oral hygiene methods and develop individualized prevention plans; prescribe fluoride and antimicrobial solutions as appropriate. Provide triage for emergencies to improve patient flow and respond to urgent needs in the clinic. Consult with dentists for patient care and complex medical histories; coordinate referrals for specialized care beyond clinic capabilities; work with the Dental Scheduler for appointment planning. May provide guidance to dental/hygiene students. Infection Control/Safety
Maintain asepsis controls to prevent transmission of diseases according to county standards; manage disposal of hazardous materials; ensure equipment availability for patient care. Work in central sterilization and process instruments according to dental protocol; complete dental/periodontal charting promptly. Maintain a safe workplace following county safety and health protocols; participate in safety initiatives. Productivity
Meet productivity goals to maintain patient access and fiscal sustainability of the dental program. Plan patient care processes, allocate time for education and questions, perform charting and documentation, and collaborate with dentists and team members for follow-up. Track and report patient demographics; participate in team or committee work to plan and improve services based on demand and community needs. Cultural Competency/Stewardship/Teamwork
Work collaboratively in a culturally sensitive manner; follow supervision and leadership for teamwork, respect, and professional conduct. Provide indirect supervision of Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) as it relates to the hygienist role. Promote a respectful work environment and promptly address conduct that interferes with eliminating discrimination or harassment. Other duties as assigned. Multnomah County supports diversity and inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value difference and strive to create a culture of dignity and respect for employees and the communities served. Qualifications
Education/Training/Experience
Equivalent to an Associate’s Degree AND a Dental Hygienist License issued by the State of Oregon with Local Anesthesia Endorsement (OR Board of Dentistry). Nitrous oxide permit – must be obtained within 1 year of hire and maintained. BLS CPR Certification (American Heart Association or equivalent). Dental Hygiene Expanded Practice permit (OR Board of Dentistry). Preferred Qualifications
Transferable skills relevant to the position; describe on your application how these apply. Screening & Evaluation
Application materials to include a resume and cover letter addressing experience with diverse populations and how qualifications meet minimum and preferred requirements. Compliance with selection process steps including interviews and background checks; provide complete attachments as requested.
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Expanded Practice Dental Hygienist – Fernhill Clinic at Multnomah County. This position provides direct periodontal and dental hygiene treatment and education in oral health maintenance and disease prevention to dental clinic patients and the community. The Dental Hygienist participates in clinical operations including disease control, prevention, sterilization, infection control, scheduling, and workflow improvement. The role supports a work culture of respect, trust and understanding for a diverse population and collaborates with dental staff to deliver quality care. Responsibilities
Provide clinical dental hygiene services, including prophylaxis, debridement, scaling and root planing, complete periodontal charting and periodontal treatment; administer topical and local anesthetic; expose and mount dental radiographs; place dental sealants; apply fluoride varnish; evaluate and record blood pressure; perform proper chart documentation. Address dental anxiety and, when appropriate, administer nitrous oxide to meet patient needs. Educate patients on preventive dental actions, demonstrate best brushing/cleaning techniques, discuss new products or methods, and provide written materials to reinforce oral health concepts. Demonstrate and teach oral hygiene methods and develop individualized prevention plans; prescribe fluoride and antimicrobial solutions as appropriate. Provide triage for emergencies to improve patient flow and respond to urgent needs in the clinic. Consult with dentists for patient care and complex medical histories; coordinate referrals for specialized care beyond clinic capabilities; work with the Dental Scheduler for appointment planning. May provide guidance to dental/hygiene students. Infection Control/Safety
Maintain asepsis controls to prevent transmission of diseases according to county standards; manage disposal of hazardous materials; ensure equipment availability for patient care. Work in central sterilization and process instruments according to dental protocol; complete dental/periodontal charting promptly. Maintain a safe workplace following county safety and health protocols; participate in safety initiatives. Productivity
Meet productivity goals to maintain patient access and fiscal sustainability of the dental program. Plan patient care processes, allocate time for education and questions, perform charting and documentation, and collaborate with dentists and team members for follow-up. Track and report patient demographics; participate in team or committee work to plan and improve services based on demand and community needs. Cultural Competency/Stewardship/Teamwork
Work collaboratively in a culturally sensitive manner; follow supervision and leadership for teamwork, respect, and professional conduct. Provide indirect supervision of Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) as it relates to the hygienist role. Promote a respectful work environment and promptly address conduct that interferes with eliminating discrimination or harassment. Other duties as assigned. Multnomah County supports diversity and inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value difference and strive to create a culture of dignity and respect for employees and the communities served. Qualifications
Education/Training/Experience
Equivalent to an Associate’s Degree AND a Dental Hygienist License issued by the State of Oregon with Local Anesthesia Endorsement (OR Board of Dentistry). Nitrous oxide permit – must be obtained within 1 year of hire and maintained. BLS CPR Certification (American Heart Association or equivalent). Dental Hygiene Expanded Practice permit (OR Board of Dentistry). Preferred Qualifications
Transferable skills relevant to the position; describe on your application how these apply. Screening & Evaluation
Application materials to include a resume and cover letter addressing experience with diverse populations and how qualifications meet minimum and preferred requirements. Compliance with selection process steps including interviews and background checks; provide complete attachments as requested.
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