Temporary Dental Hygienist

About the role
We are looking for a dependable hygienist to provide coverage on an as-needed basis. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys flexibility while delivering exceptional patient care. When needed, you'll step into a supportive environment with a full schedule, an experienced doctor team, and the tools and resources necessary to provide excellent clinical care.
What you will do
Provide prophylaxis, periodontal maintenance, and scaling and root planing
Complete full periodontal charting and assess periodontal health at every appropriate visit
Take and review radiographs and intraoral images
Educate patients on their oral health and explain the “why” behind recommended care
Co-diagnose with the dentist and build treatment plans for periodontal and restorative care
Present treatment plans chairside, explaining what the patient needs and why, in plain language
Discuss fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options with patients, helping them say yes to care while the clinical conversation is still fresh
Administer local anesthesia [where certified and permitted by state]
Apply fluoride, sealants, and adjunctive therapies
Make sure each patient leaves with their next recare visit scheduled
Document accurately and completely in the patient record
Maintain your operatory and follow OSHA and infection control standards
What we need from you
Reliability. Regular, predictable, on-time attendance is an essential function of this job. When a hygienist is out, a full day of patients loses their care.
Presence. You are engaged and focused on the patient in your chair.
A good attitude. You stay positive and professional on busy days and take feedback well.
Team first. You communicate openly with doctors, assistants, and the front desk, and you help the whole office succeed.
Clinical ownership. You diagnose and treat periodontal disease by the standard of care, not by what is easiest.
Patient connection. You build trust, explain clearly, and are comfortable recommending treatment. Patients accept care when it comes from the clinician they trust.
Comfort with money conversations. You can talk about cost and financing clearly and confidently, without pressure and without handing it off.
Professional presentation. We hold a high standard for personal hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs every shift.
Qualifications
Active state dental hygiene license in good standing
Current CPR/BLS certification
Local anesthesia certification [required / preferred]
New graduates welcome [if applicable]
Experience presenting treatment plans and discussing patient financing is a plus
Experience with Denticon practice management software is a plus
Physical requirements
The following are essential to this role and must be met with or without reasonable accommodation:
Sit for extended periods in a clinical operator position
Bend, lean, and reach over patients repeatedly throughout the day
Use both hands with fine motor control and sustained grip for scaling and instrumentation
Perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements for the length of each appointment
See clearly at close range, including small detail, depth, and color
Hear and speak clearly to communicate with patients and the care team while masked
Lift and carry supplies and equipment up to [25] pounds
Wear required protective equipment for the full shift
Work with exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials, following safety protocols
Maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene standards appropriate for close patient contact, including avoiding strong odors and fragrances