Regional Dental Hygienist 

The hygienist works independently or in small groups in a variety of community-based clinic settings including schools, Head Starts, etc., in Tribal communities on an assigned Reservation in South Dakota. Occasionally, the hygienist will work at a Mobile Program truck clinic.

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and flexible, possess strong communication skills, have experience working in rural and/or tribal community setting and be passionate about preventing oral diseases in underserved children.

Duties and responsibilities

Patient treatment

• Schedule site partner clinics
• Collect and review Patient Information Forms
• Screen patients for oral disease
• Provide needed preventive services (screenings, cleanings, sealants, fluoride varnish) according to the DDSD Foundation’s protocols
• Record all screening results and treatment services in electronic dental record
• Determine appropriate referrals to dental offices
• Work with Oral Health Coordinators to ensure high needs patients receive further dental care

Education

• Provide in-depth oral health education to each patient
• Provide tobacco prevention and cessation education to patients as appropriate
• Conduct classroom oral health education when time allows
• Communicate the importance of oral health and promote the Delta Dental Mobile Program to identified stakeholders

Other

• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity in all interactions with a strong commitment to an excellent patient experience
  
• Can meet the challenge of providing high-quality care under sometimes challenging conditions
• Perform other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives, as directed by supervisor or director
• Be prepared to travel, have overnight stays and occasionally work irregular hours
• Attend mandatory all-staff meetings
• Be responsible for: storing, maintaining, and transporting equipment; keeping an accurate inventory of supplies; and accurately completing data entry/reporting requirements

Experience and qualifications

• Must have graduated from an accredited dental hygiene education program
• Must have an active South Dakota driver’s license
• Must qualify for collaborative supervision status in South Dakota and willing to obtain the proper credentials
• Must be current on vaccinations, or willing to obtain the required vaccinations
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and transport/set-up equipment on a regular basis
  

What's it like? 

How to apply

Applying for a job with Delta Dental of South Dakota is easy! Send us an email with your:

• Cover letter;
• Resume; and
• Professional references.