Definition
Under the general direction of a dentist, provides preventative clinical services and instruction in dental hygiene to residents of a state institution; performs related work as required.
The work examples and competencies listed below are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.
Work Examples
Performs oral prophylaxis procedures such as scaling, application of fluoride, and oral inspection, noting and reporting to the dentist possible decay or disease.
Assists the dentist in restorative or surgical work by preparing instruments, mixing materials, and aspirating the patient's mouth.
Assesses the need for and develops oral health education programs for individuals or groups of patients; gives talks or demonstrations on the proper care of teeth and the oral cavity as part of a total health program.
Obtains medical and dental histories of patients and maintains dental records for use by the dentist in diagnosing the patients' dental condition.
Performs laboratory and some clerical work such as mixing compounds and antiseptic solutions, sterilizing instruments, ordering supplies, and scheduling patients for dental work.
Takes, develops and mounts dental radiographs.
Oversees the work of students of dental hygiene or dental health occupations and employees such as Dental Assistants that may be assigned to the dental office to perform routine health care procedures.
Competencies Required
Knowledge of the principles, techniques, terminology and practices of dental health and preventative clinical services.
Knowledge of dental instruments, equipment and procedures.
Knowledge of the basic, social, dental and clinical sciences in the prevention and control of dental diseases.
Knowledge of the methods and media used in health education.
Ability to apply knowledge of human behavior, basic principles of communication and basic theories of learning and educational methods in dental health.
Ability to participate effectively in the team approach to dental and total health care.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, employees and patients.
Ability to meet customer needs in a consistently helpful and courteous manner.
Ability to work cooperatively with others as part of a team.
Ability to apply personal work attitudes such as honesty, responsibility and trustworthiness required to be a productive employee.
Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Exhibits honesty and integrity. Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.
Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner. Committed to quality service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Works with minimal supervision. Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.
Responds appropriately to supervision. Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.
Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.
Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity. Fosters commitment and team spirit.
Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Listens to others and responds appropriately.
Education, Experience, and Special Requirements
Licensure as a Dental Hygienist in the State of Iowa.
Effective Date: 06/08 SH