U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
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Dental Hygienist
role at
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs . This position provides direct patient care under the general supervision of a dentist.
Base Pay Range $55,815.00/yr - $96,368.00/yr
Summary The Dental Hygienist provides direct patient care under the general supervision of the dentist and performs other clinical and clerical functions independently of direct supervision. They are expected to provide direct patient care and receive guidance from higher-level or supervisory staff members for only the most complex patients.
Qualifications
United States Citizenship: Non‑citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
Education
Applicants must possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program
The degree must have been obtained from an institution whose accreditation was in place for the year in which the course of study was completed
Approved programs are: Dental hygiene programs accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
[Education completed outside of the United States must be considered at least equivalent to that gained in CODA accredited United States programs and would enable the candidate to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination – which is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations.]
Applicants must be currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist with a full‑current and unrestricted license in a State‑Territory or Commonwealth of the United States – or the District of Columbia
Certification
P.L
97‑35 – Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act Of 1981 – requires persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R.
Part 75 – Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs for and the Credentialing of Radiologic Personnel
To meet this requirement – they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field
Accredited dental hygiene programs contain curriculum addressing radiologic procedures meets the requirement for certification as dental radiographers
Exceptions for Non‑Certified Dental Hygienist / Non‑certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for licensure – may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate dental hygienist under the authority of 38 U.S.C.
7405(c)(2)(B) – Temporary Full‑Time Appointments – Part‑Time Appointments and Without‑Compensation Appointments for a Period Not to Exceed Two Years
Non‑certified individuals shall only provide care under the supervision of a certified dental hygienist at or above the full performance level
Non‑certified individuals may only be appointed at the entry level (GS‑5) and may not be promoted/converted until certification is obtained
Temporary appointments of non‑certified dental hygienist may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment
Foreign Education
To be creditable – education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. program by a private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials
English Language Proficiency
Dental hygienist candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C.
7403(f)
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements outlined in paragraph 3.b. – the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates
Dental Hygienist – GS‑05 Experience
None – beyond the basic requirements
Dental Hygienist – GS‑06 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑5)
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities (KSAs)
In addition to the experience above – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of oral prophylactic – therapeutic – and preventive procedures for periodontal diseases – or inflammation – or on patients with other medical and/or dental problems
Knowledge of dental methods and techniques used in performing intra and extra oral procedures
Ability to use communication techniques to encourage and inform individuals and groups
Dental Hygienist – GS‑07 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑6) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to the experience above – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of oral pathology to include disease of the hard and soft tissues – disorders of tooth structure – developmental and congenital anomalies – salivary gland disorders – symptoms of infectious disorders – and appropriate protocols
Practical knowledge of medical diseases – conditions – and chronic degenerative diseases as they relate to dental health and treatment
Knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques to produce radiographs of high diagnostic quality
Dental Hygienist – GS‑08 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑7) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS‑07 level – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of state‑of‑the‑art preventive dentistry measures for patient instruction and training
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology in order to interpret the examination request accurately
to understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various anatomical structures appearing on the radiographic image and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the radiograph for diagnostic use
and to present for viewing
Knowledge of The Joint Commission (TJC) – Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – and related regulations and guidelines pertaining to dental matters
Skill in providing individual and group oral health care instructions to inpatients – outpatients – Nursing Home Care Unit patients – etc
Dental Hygienist – GS‑09 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑8) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS‑08 level – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of hygiene procedures to explain the process and indication – complications and expected treatment outcomes for each
Knowledge of proper usage of dental radiography equipment – radiation safety – assessment of proper image capture and interpretation of films
Knowledge to select appropriate available fluoride products and indications/limitations for safe and proper application
Skill in detecting plaque and calculus – dental abnormalities/pathologies – assessing inflammation and providing safe instrumentation for each procedure
Skill in educating patients and caregivers on periodontal disease – wellness – health maintenance – oral hygiene practices – parafunctional habits – and effects of illness – addictions – medications and tobacco on the oral cavity
Ability to assess the patient’s medical – dental – anxiety/phobias – medications and comorbidities to administer safe patient care
Ability to assess the impact of patient’s medical and dental condition on maintaining oral health – recognize age‑related changes in individual patients – adapt patient environment – and maximize patient’s physical comfort
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS‑5 to GS‑9.
Duties
Assignments at this level include but are not limited to: patient medical assessment (e.g. medical/dental history – social history – vital signs – full periodontal assessment and charting) – disease and treatment management recommendations – denture care – scaling and root planning – radiographs/image interpretation – patient education (e.g. post‑procedure – tobacco cessation – caries and Perio‑disease prevention) – behavior management – management of stable medically compromised patients (including risk factors) – instrument sharpening – inter‑service communication
FUNCTIONS OR SCOPE OF ASSIGNED DUTIES: Sets up operatory for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover
Handles instruments safely – accurately – and efficiently
Perform dental prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance procedures using hand and ultrasonic instruments – to include gross debridement – curettage and scaling & root planning – tooth polishing & application of topical fluoride solutions
Cleans dental prostheses – fixed and removable
Manages dental recall system – referring patients to the doctor for additional care when needed
Applies desensitizing and sealant materials
Administers localized antimicrobial agents in periodontal pockets when indicated
Makes impressions for fluoride carrier trays
Administers topical and/or local anesthetic agents (per state license). Accomplishes all procedures within standard infection control protocols
Conducts head and neck examinations and complete intraoral inspection of the hard and soft tissue and seeks consultation with dentist to assess abnormal findings
Keeps operatory supplied with all necessary equipment – instruments and disposable supplies needed for the proper treatment of patients
Provides patient education appropriate to the veteran’s needs and oral condition
Prepares and provides individual and group oral health care instruction to inpatients – outpatients – and caregivers
Exposes prescribed radiographs
Images are characterized by diagnostic quality – accurately oriented and exposed
Dental imaging safety techniques are utilized – and retakes are minimized
Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory
Instruments are properly prepared for sterilization by SPD standards – Maintains integrity of instruments with proper routine sharpening and maintenance per manufacture instructions
Instruments are prepared in a manner that does not delay clinical care
Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in exposing images
Wears appropriate protective attire and assure that the patient is provided eye protection during procedures
Assists patients in scheduling appointments via VA scheduling software
Assists in filling gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations and failed appointments
Charts findings – treatment plans – and treatment provided in patient records
Accurately codes for type of treatment administered – electronically – by way of VA charting system
Work Schedule: Monday‑Friday 8am‑4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Seniority Level Entry level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider
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Dental Hygienist
role at
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs . This position provides direct patient care under the general supervision of a dentist.
Base Pay Range $55,815.00/yr - $96,368.00/yr
Summary The Dental Hygienist provides direct patient care under the general supervision of the dentist and performs other clinical and clerical functions independently of direct supervision. They are expected to provide direct patient care and receive guidance from higher-level or supervisory staff members for only the most complex patients.
Qualifications
United States Citizenship: Non‑citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
Education
Applicants must possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program
The degree must have been obtained from an institution whose accreditation was in place for the year in which the course of study was completed
Approved programs are: Dental hygiene programs accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
[Education completed outside of the United States must be considered at least equivalent to that gained in CODA accredited United States programs and would enable the candidate to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination – which is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations.]
Applicants must be currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist with a full‑current and unrestricted license in a State‑Territory or Commonwealth of the United States – or the District of Columbia
Certification
P.L
97‑35 – Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act Of 1981 – requires persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R.
Part 75 – Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs for and the Credentialing of Radiologic Personnel
To meet this requirement – they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field
Accredited dental hygiene programs contain curriculum addressing radiologic procedures meets the requirement for certification as dental radiographers
Exceptions for Non‑Certified Dental Hygienist / Non‑certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for licensure – may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate dental hygienist under the authority of 38 U.S.C.
7405(c)(2)(B) – Temporary Full‑Time Appointments – Part‑Time Appointments and Without‑Compensation Appointments for a Period Not to Exceed Two Years
Non‑certified individuals shall only provide care under the supervision of a certified dental hygienist at or above the full performance level
Non‑certified individuals may only be appointed at the entry level (GS‑5) and may not be promoted/converted until certification is obtained
Temporary appointments of non‑certified dental hygienist may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment
Foreign Education
To be creditable – education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. program by a private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials
English Language Proficiency
Dental hygienist candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C.
7403(f)
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements outlined in paragraph 3.b. – the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates
Dental Hygienist – GS‑05 Experience
None – beyond the basic requirements
Dental Hygienist – GS‑06 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑5)
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities (KSAs)
In addition to the experience above – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of oral prophylactic – therapeutic – and preventive procedures for periodontal diseases – or inflammation – or on patients with other medical and/or dental problems
Knowledge of dental methods and techniques used in performing intra and extra oral procedures
Ability to use communication techniques to encourage and inform individuals and groups
Dental Hygienist – GS‑07 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑6) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to the experience above – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of oral pathology to include disease of the hard and soft tissues – disorders of tooth structure – developmental and congenital anomalies – salivary gland disorders – symptoms of infectious disorders – and appropriate protocols
Practical knowledge of medical diseases – conditions – and chronic degenerative diseases as they relate to dental health and treatment
Knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques to produce radiographs of high diagnostic quality
Dental Hygienist – GS‑08 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑7) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS‑07 level – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of state‑of‑the‑art preventive dentistry measures for patient instruction and training
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology in order to interpret the examination request accurately
to understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various anatomical structures appearing on the radiographic image and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the radiograph for diagnostic use
and to present for viewing
Knowledge of The Joint Commission (TJC) – Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – and related regulations and guidelines pertaining to dental matters
Skill in providing individual and group oral health care instructions to inpatients – outpatients – Nursing Home Care Unit patients – etc
Dental Hygienist – GS‑09 Experience
At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS‑8) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
AND Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS‑08 level – the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Knowledge of hygiene procedures to explain the process and indication – complications and expected treatment outcomes for each
Knowledge of proper usage of dental radiography equipment – radiation safety – assessment of proper image capture and interpretation of films
Knowledge to select appropriate available fluoride products and indications/limitations for safe and proper application
Skill in detecting plaque and calculus – dental abnormalities/pathologies – assessing inflammation and providing safe instrumentation for each procedure
Skill in educating patients and caregivers on periodontal disease – wellness – health maintenance – oral hygiene practices – parafunctional habits – and effects of illness – addictions – medications and tobacco on the oral cavity
Ability to assess the patient’s medical – dental – anxiety/phobias – medications and comorbidities to administer safe patient care
Ability to assess the impact of patient’s medical and dental condition on maintaining oral health – recognize age‑related changes in individual patients – adapt patient environment – and maximize patient’s physical comfort
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS‑5 to GS‑9.
Duties
Assignments at this level include but are not limited to: patient medical assessment (e.g. medical/dental history – social history – vital signs – full periodontal assessment and charting) – disease and treatment management recommendations – denture care – scaling and root planning – radiographs/image interpretation – patient education (e.g. post‑procedure – tobacco cessation – caries and Perio‑disease prevention) – behavior management – management of stable medically compromised patients (including risk factors) – instrument sharpening – inter‑service communication
FUNCTIONS OR SCOPE OF ASSIGNED DUTIES: Sets up operatory for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover
Handles instruments safely – accurately – and efficiently
Perform dental prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance procedures using hand and ultrasonic instruments – to include gross debridement – curettage and scaling & root planning – tooth polishing & application of topical fluoride solutions
Cleans dental prostheses – fixed and removable
Manages dental recall system – referring patients to the doctor for additional care when needed
Applies desensitizing and sealant materials
Administers localized antimicrobial agents in periodontal pockets when indicated
Makes impressions for fluoride carrier trays
Administers topical and/or local anesthetic agents (per state license). Accomplishes all procedures within standard infection control protocols
Conducts head and neck examinations and complete intraoral inspection of the hard and soft tissue and seeks consultation with dentist to assess abnormal findings
Keeps operatory supplied with all necessary equipment – instruments and disposable supplies needed for the proper treatment of patients
Provides patient education appropriate to the veteran’s needs and oral condition
Prepares and provides individual and group oral health care instruction to inpatients – outpatients – and caregivers
Exposes prescribed radiographs
Images are characterized by diagnostic quality – accurately oriented and exposed
Dental imaging safety techniques are utilized – and retakes are minimized
Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in setting up and cleaning up operatory
Instruments are properly prepared for sterilization by SPD standards – Maintains integrity of instruments with proper routine sharpening and maintenance per manufacture instructions
Instruments are prepared in a manner that does not delay clinical care
Demonstrates proper infection control procedures in exposing images
Wears appropriate protective attire and assure that the patient is provided eye protection during procedures
Assists patients in scheduling appointments via VA scheduling software
Assists in filling gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations and failed appointments
Charts findings – treatment plans – and treatment provided in patient records
Accurately codes for type of treatment administered – electronically – by way of VA charting system
Work Schedule: Monday‑Friday 8am‑4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Seniority Level Entry level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider
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