Registered Dental Hygienist - Grand Rapids, MI

Job Title: Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)

Job Summary

The Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental care, with a focus on the assessment and treatment of oral and periodontal disease. Working collaboratively with the dentist, the RDH documents patients’ historical and current clinical conditions and contributes to treatment recommendations to ensure the highest appropriate level of care.

Reports To: Clinical Practice Administrator

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform prophylaxis, root planning, and sealant applications

• Update and review patient health histories and required documentation

• Complete dental charting of existing restorations, missing teeth, and annual periodontal charting

• Place subgingival medicaments as indicated

• Take patient vital signs, including blood pressure; obtain radiographs and impressions (including pouring diagnostic models)

• Present initial clinical findings and recommended periodontal treatment plans

• Answer patient questions clearly and confidently regarding recommended care

• Document completed treatments and schedule re-care appointments

• Disinfect operatories and sterilize instruments according to infection control protocols

• Assist dentists, dental assistants, and the business office team as needed

• Provide oral hygiene instructions and demonstrations to patients of all ages

• Polish dental restorations

• Assist with triage and treatment of emergency dental patients

• Administer local anesthetic as permitted by licensure

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED

• Current Michigan Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) license

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) / CPR certification in accordance with licensure requirements

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• Exceptional customer service skills with the ability to relate to patients of all ages

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and serve a diverse patient population

• Strong multitasking skills with the ability to manage interruptions and meet deadlines

• Proficiency in hand scaling and polishing techniques

• Experience using intraoral cameras, plasma arc curing lights, electronic blood pressure cuffs, ultrasonic scalers, autoclaves, and radiographic equipment