Responsibility
The services provided by dental hygienists include:
1. Patient screening procedures; such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of the health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting and taking blood pressure and pulse
2. Removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth
3. Applying preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides)
4. Teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health;
(e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling)
5. Counseling patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health
6. Making impressions of patients' teeth for study casts (models of teeth used by dentists to evaluate patient treatment needs)
7. Performing documentation and office management activities.
8. To prepare training and educative material for the community health workers and also for the population to promote dental health.
9. To deal with dental emergencies up to safe transfer.
10. Writing reports and educational material for circulation.
11. Giving presentation within and outside of organization if need be.
Qualifications and experience:
1. Relevant Professional Qualification
2. Preferably 3- 5 years of experience in a Dental Practice
3. Should be registered with the Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA) Excellent communication skills
4. Good computer skills
5. Friendly and professional demeanor. Good team player with ability to take members along.
Additional Matters
1. Should not have been charged for professional negligence or moral turpitude.
2. Not involved in any other serious civil or criminal matters.
3. Should preferably have Professional Insurance Cover.
4. Should preferably hold a valid passport and driving license.