Dental Hygienist
The American Dental Hygienists' Association, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
Summary
The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System seeks a Dental Hygienist to provide direct patient care - perform clinical and clerical tasks - and plan preventive oral health programs. The role includes developing instructional methods and evaluating preventive dentistry program effectiveness under a dentist's general direction. This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until September 30 - 2026 or until all positions are filled.
Qualifications
Citizenship: Be a Citizen of the United States
Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a) - Administrative Provisions for Section 7405 and 7406 Appointments
Education: Applicants must possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program. The degree must have been obtained from an institution whose accreditation was in place for the year in which the course of study was completed. Approved programs are: Dental hygiene programs accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Education completed outside of the United States must be considered at least equivalent to that gained in CODA accredited United States programs and would enable the candidate to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination - which is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations.
Licensure/Certification: Applicants must be currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist with a full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or the District of Columbia. Certification P.L
97-35 - Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act Of 1981 - requires persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R
Part 75 - Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs for and the Credentialing of Radiologic Personnel
To meet this requirement - they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field
Accredited dental hygiene programs contain curriculum addressing radiologic procedures meeting the requirement for certification as dental radiographers
Exceptions for Non-Certified Dental Hygienist: Non-certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for licensure - may be given a temporary appointment - not to exceed two years - as a graduate dental hygienist pending certification (GS-5 level only)
English Language Proficiency: Dental hygienist candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f)
GRADE DETERMINATIONS - In addition to the basic requirements outlined the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates
Dental Hygienist - GS-05 Experience: None beyond the basic requirements
Dental Hygienist - GS-06 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of oral prophylactic - therapeutic - and preventive procedures for periodontal diseases - or inflammation - or on patients with other medical and/or dental problems
Knowledge of dental methods and techniques used in performing intra and extra-oral procedures
Ability to use communication techniques to encourage and inform individuals and groups
Dental Hygienist - GS-07 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of oral pathology to include disease of the hard and soft tissues - disorders of tooth structure - developmental and congenital anomalies - salivary gland disorders - symptoms of infectious disorders - and appropriate protocols
Practical knowledge of medical diseases - conditions - and chronic degenerative diseases as they relate to dental health and treatment
Knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques to produce radiographs of high diagnostic quality
Dental Hygienist - GS-08 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of state-of-the-art preventive dentistry measures for patient instruction and training
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology in order to interpret the examination request accurately
To understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various anatomical structures appearing on the radiographic image and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the radiograph for diagnostic use
to present for viewing
Knowledge of The Joint Commission (TJC) - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - and related regulations and guidelines pertaining to dental matters
Skill in providing individual and group oral health care instructions to inpatients - outpatients - Nursing Home Care Unit patients - etc
Dental Hygienist - GS-09 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of hygiene procedures to explain the process and indication - complications - and expected treatment outcomes for each
Knowledge of the proper usage of dental radiography equipment - radiation safety - assessment of proper image capture and interpretation of films
Knowledge to select appropriate available fluoride products and indications/limitations for safe and proper application
Skill in detecting plaque and calculus - dental abnormalities/pathologies - assessing inflammation and providing safe instrumentation for each procedure
Skill in educating patients and caregivers on periodontal disease - wellness - health maintenance - oral hygiene practices - parafunctional habits - and effects of illness - addictions - medications - and tobacco on the oral cavity
Ability to assess the patient's medical - dental - anxiety/phobias - medications - and comorbidities to administer safe patient care
Ability to assess the impact of the patient's medical and dental condition on maintaining oral health - recognize age-related changes in individual patients - adapt patient environment - and maximize patient's physical comfort
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard - please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-09
Physical Requirements: Light carrying under 15 pounds and reaching above the shoulder
Both hands are necessary for the role - as well as the ability to walk or stand for 8-10 hours and perform repeated bending
Both legs are required - and the position demands specific visual requirements for discerning small details
The candidate must have the ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously - with both eyes required for accurate depth perception and color distinction
Additionally - good hearing ability is essential for this role.
Duties
Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement
Customer Service: Demonstrate courtesy - respect - and maintain a positive attitude towards patients - co-workers - management - and the public
Assist customers with their questions or concerns and provide service recovery as needed
Patient Care: Prepare the operatory for planned dental procedures and ensure timely turnover of the dental unit
Handle dental instruments safely - accurately - and efficiently
Provide routine oral care - including fluoride treatment and gross debridement - scaling - and root planning
Clean dental prostheses (both fixed and removable) and manage the dental recall system in consultation with the doctor for additional care
Administer topical anesthetic agents and perform all procedures in accordance with standard infection-control protocols
Patient Education: Offer patient education tailored to the Veteran's needs and oral condition
Conduct individual and group oral health care instruction sessions for patients and caregivers
Dental Imaging: Take high-quality radiographic images with accurate orientation and proper exposure - with minimal need for retakes as directed by the dentist
Follow dental-imaging safety protocols
Infection Control and Equipment Sterilization: Demonstrate proper infection-control procedures when setting up and cleaning the operatory
Prepare instruments for sterilization following SPS standards - ensuring no delays in clinical care
Follow proper infection-control procedures during image exposure
Clerical Functions: Assist patients in scheduling their appointments and fill gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations or failed appointments
Chart findings and treatment provided in patient records
Information Management: Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines
Follow computer security regulations
Patient Safety: Adjust care appropriately based on patient's age and abilities - including patient transfer and positioning
Provide clear and accurate instructions to patients
Participate in patient identification and time-out procedures per TJC requirements
Monitor patient condition during treatment and be alert for signs of physical distress
Employee Education: Comply with Employee Education requirements and complete mandatory annual training sessions
Meet all CE requirements for licensing
Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned - depending on the grade level selected for
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Functional Statement #: 635-54404A - 635-54405A - 635-54406A - 635-54407A - 635-54408A
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System seeks a Dental Hygienist to provide direct patient care - perform clinical and clerical tasks - and plan preventive oral health programs. The role includes developing instructional methods and evaluating preventive dentistry program effectiveness under a dentist's general direction. This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until September 30 - 2026 or until all positions are filled.
Qualifications
Citizenship: Be a Citizen of the United States
Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a) - Administrative Provisions for Section 7405 and 7406 Appointments
Education: Applicants must possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program. The degree must have been obtained from an institution whose accreditation was in place for the year in which the course of study was completed. Approved programs are: Dental hygiene programs accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Education completed outside of the United States must be considered at least equivalent to that gained in CODA accredited United States programs and would enable the candidate to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination - which is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations.
Licensure/Certification: Applicants must be currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist with a full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or the District of Columbia. Certification P.L
97-35 - Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act Of 1981 - requires persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R
Part 75 - Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs for and the Credentialing of Radiologic Personnel
To meet this requirement - they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field
Accredited dental hygiene programs contain curriculum addressing radiologic procedures meeting the requirement for certification as dental radiographers
Exceptions for Non-Certified Dental Hygienist: Non-certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for licensure - may be given a temporary appointment - not to exceed two years - as a graduate dental hygienist pending certification (GS-5 level only)
English Language Proficiency: Dental hygienist candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f)
GRADE DETERMINATIONS - In addition to the basic requirements outlined the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates
Dental Hygienist - GS-05 Experience: None beyond the basic requirements
Dental Hygienist - GS-06 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of oral prophylactic - therapeutic - and preventive procedures for periodontal diseases - or inflammation - or on patients with other medical and/or dental problems
Knowledge of dental methods and techniques used in performing intra and extra-oral procedures
Ability to use communication techniques to encourage and inform individuals and groups
Dental Hygienist - GS-07 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of oral pathology to include disease of the hard and soft tissues - disorders of tooth structure - developmental and congenital anomalies - salivary gland disorders - symptoms of infectious disorders - and appropriate protocols
Practical knowledge of medical diseases - conditions - and chronic degenerative diseases as they relate to dental health and treatment
Knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques to produce radiographs of high diagnostic quality
Dental Hygienist - GS-08 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of state-of-the-art preventive dentistry measures for patient instruction and training
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology in order to interpret the examination request accurately
To understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various anatomical structures appearing on the radiographic image and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the radiograph for diagnostic use
to present for viewing
Knowledge of The Joint Commission (TJC) - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - and related regulations and guidelines pertaining to dental matters
Skill in providing individual and group oral health care instructions to inpatients - outpatients - Nursing Home Care Unit patients - etc
Dental Hygienist - GS-09 Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills - and Abilities Knowledge of hygiene procedures to explain the process and indication - complications - and expected treatment outcomes for each
Knowledge of the proper usage of dental radiography equipment - radiation safety - assessment of proper image capture and interpretation of films
Knowledge to select appropriate available fluoride products and indications/limitations for safe and proper application
Skill in detecting plaque and calculus - dental abnormalities/pathologies - assessing inflammation and providing safe instrumentation for each procedure
Skill in educating patients and caregivers on periodontal disease - wellness - health maintenance - oral hygiene practices - parafunctional habits - and effects of illness - addictions - medications - and tobacco on the oral cavity
Ability to assess the patient's medical - dental - anxiety/phobias - medications - and comorbidities to administer safe patient care
Ability to assess the impact of the patient's medical and dental condition on maintaining oral health - recognize age-related changes in individual patients - adapt patient environment - and maximize patient's physical comfort
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard - please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-09
Physical Requirements: Light carrying under 15 pounds and reaching above the shoulder
Both hands are necessary for the role - as well as the ability to walk or stand for 8-10 hours and perform repeated bending
Both legs are required - and the position demands specific visual requirements for discerning small details
The candidate must have the ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously - with both eyes required for accurate depth perception and color distinction
Additionally - good hearing ability is essential for this role.
Duties
Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement
Customer Service: Demonstrate courtesy - respect - and maintain a positive attitude towards patients - co-workers - management - and the public
Assist customers with their questions or concerns and provide service recovery as needed
Patient Care: Prepare the operatory for planned dental procedures and ensure timely turnover of the dental unit
Handle dental instruments safely - accurately - and efficiently
Provide routine oral care - including fluoride treatment and gross debridement - scaling - and root planning
Clean dental prostheses (both fixed and removable) and manage the dental recall system in consultation with the doctor for additional care
Administer topical anesthetic agents and perform all procedures in accordance with standard infection-control protocols
Patient Education: Offer patient education tailored to the Veteran's needs and oral condition
Conduct individual and group oral health care instruction sessions for patients and caregivers
Dental Imaging: Take high-quality radiographic images with accurate orientation and proper exposure - with minimal need for retakes as directed by the dentist
Follow dental-imaging safety protocols
Infection Control and Equipment Sterilization: Demonstrate proper infection-control procedures when setting up and cleaning the operatory
Prepare instruments for sterilization following SPS standards - ensuring no delays in clinical care
Follow proper infection-control procedures during image exposure
Clerical Functions: Assist patients in scheduling their appointments and fill gaps in the schedule due to late cancellations or failed appointments
Chart findings and treatment provided in patient records
Information Management: Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines
Follow computer security regulations
Patient Safety: Adjust care appropriately based on patient's age and abilities - including patient transfer and positioning
Provide clear and accurate instructions to patients
Participate in patient identification and time-out procedures per TJC requirements
Monitor patient condition during treatment and be alert for signs of physical distress
Employee Education: Comply with Employee Education requirements and complete mandatory annual training sessions
Meet all CE requirements for licensing
Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned - depending on the grade level selected for
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Functional Statement #: 635-54404A - 635-54405A - 635-54406A - 635-54407A - 635-54408A
#J-18808-Ljbffr