Dental Hygienist

Hygienists examine patients’ teeth and gums, recording the presence of diseases or abnormalities. They remove calculus, stains, and plaque from teeth; perform root planning as a periodontal therapy; take and develop dental x rays; and apply cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides and pit and fissure sealants. Dental hygienists remove soft and hard deposits from teeth, teach patients how to practice good oral hygiene, and provide other preventive dental care. Hygienists also perform other dental procedures under the direction of their supervisory Dentist. This may include place and carve filling materials, temporary fillings, and periodontal dressings; remove sutures; and smooth and polish metal restorations. Although hygienists may not diagnose diseases, they can prepare clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for the dentist to interpret. Hygienists sometimes work chairside with the dentist during treatment.

Dental hygienists also help patients develop and maintain good oral health. For example, they may explain the relationship between diet and oral health or inform patients how to select toothbrushes and show them how to brush and floss their teeth.

Dental hygienists use hand and rotary instruments and ultrasonics to clean and polish teeth, x-ray machines to take dental pictures, syringes with needles to administer local anesthetics, and models of teeth to explain oral hygiene.

For our Dental Professionals we offer the opportunity to focus on core foundations; practicing dentistry and providing quality dental care to patients. Mountains Community Hospital Rural Clinic offers the unique opportunity for you to practice your art while we provide you with business support and assume responsibility of most aspects of operating the practice.

Minimum Position Qualifications:
Education: Dental Hygienist certificate, associate degree or a baccalaureate degree in dental hygiene
Preferred: One-year dental experience, RDH

License / Certification: Current California Dental Hygienist License

Current x-ray license

Current CPR certificate