Job Description
Summary This position is in the Atlanta VA Health Care System. The incumbent will function as a Staff Dental Hygienist performing both routine and advanced clinical periodontal procedures and techniques at the Dental Clinic. The hygienist works under the general supervision of a Staff Dentist for all functional duties. Responsibilities An Incumbent at this grade level serve as (1) Staff Dental Hygienists performing advanced clinical techniques or serve as instructors for a dental hygiene program. An Incumbent must be able to plan, coordinate, and conduct preventive oral health programs for various patient groups; develop and modify instructional methods; and develop methods for evaluating the effectiveness of the preventive dentistry program. The Incumbent works closely with, and under the general direction of, a Dentist or Periodontist. The Incumbent performs these advanced techniques, or these responsibilities as listed at least 25% of the time. 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. Customer Service Shows courtesy, respect, and a positive attitude for patients, co-workers and the public - Provides assistance to customers with questions or concerns, provides service recovery. Patient Care Sets up operatory for planned dental procedure and cleans dental unit for timely turnover Handles instruments safely, accurately, and efficiently - Provides routine oral prophylactic care to include application of fluoride solutions Provides gross debridement, deep scaling, and curettage and root planning procedures 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 - Makes impressions for fluoride carrier trays Administers topical anesthetic agents - Accomplishes all procedures within standard i