Regional Dental Hygienist 

This mission-driven position provides dental hygiene services for our Mobile Program under both collaborative and direct supervision using portable dental equipment.

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

Compensation and benefits

Delta Dental provides an excellent compensation and benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, 401k, and continuing education. Possibility for a reduced summer schedule.

More information about benefits and company culture is available on our Careers page.

What's it like? 

Working as a public health hygienist in the Delta Dental Mobile Program

Read Val's story

Mobile Program

The mission of our Mobile Program is to help children who don't have access to a dentist.

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.

Email your application