Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Dental Hygienist 2 supports advanced dental care and research initiatives by assisting dentists and contributing to oral health studies, by performing dental screening examinations of adults to identify and record baseline and follow-up caries assessments for an oral health grant. The objective of the grant is to evaluate if two treatments for cavities are equally effective in a community setting for adults 62 and older, residing in independent-living apartments. Under supervision of the study dentists, the hygienist will also deliver the treatment interventions to those with cavities. The dental hygienist will also assist the research team with other aspects of the study. This is a Part-Time Position (18.75 hours/week).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Screen patients and review dental records for clinical and research purposes. Perform dental screening examinations of adults at senior independent housing facilities to identify and record baseline and follow-up caries assessments using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) system. (53%)
Travel to community sites or partner clinics to provide services and collect data. Travel to independent living apartments and deliver the treatment interventions to those with cavities, under the direction of the study dentists, based on the intervention arm of the housing facility. (24%)
Assist with study visits by preparing materials to be taken to the housing sites for dental exams, recommend oral hygiene methods and contribute to educational materials. The hygienist will operate and maintain dental equipment and ensure compliance with safety standards, and on exam days, assist with setting up, breaking down and cleaning the portable dental equipment following the completion of exams. (6%)
Report to the research office at Case Western Reserve University on days when there are no exams to assist with other research activities, including data management. Participate in the implementation of research protocols and new procedures/products to establish standard of care, ensure compliance and the highest quality of care. (15%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS
Attend ICDAS classroom and clinical training at Case Western Reserve University/housing sites. (1%)
Perform advanced dental hygiene procedures including periodontal assessments and deep cleanings. (<1%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Daily contact with study faculty and staff regarding dental screening examinations.
University: No contact.
External: Daily contact with patients and housing staff regarding dental screening examinations.
Students: Occasional contact with work-study students to exchange information.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No supervisory responsibility.
QUALIFICAITONS
Experience: 4+ years of experience in dental hygiene, with 2 or more years of experience in dental hygiene required. Prior experience examining older adults and placing interim restorations; and exposure to research or outreach programs preferred.
Education/Licensing: High school education and graduate of an ADA accredited program in dental hygiene required. Must possess a current valid Ohio hygiene license.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Strong communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.
Must be comfortable working with older adults.
Ability to work with various populations including but not limited to multi-cultural patients, faculty, students and internal and external staff.
Strong attention to detail. Self-motivated with a strong ability to work well within a team.
Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Must have reliable transportation and be willing to drive to housing facilities located throughout Northeast Ohio on a regular basis.
Requirements
QUALIFICAITONS
Experience: 4+ years of experience in dental hygiene, with 2 or more years of experience in dental hygiene required. Prior experience examining older adults and placing interim restorations; and exposure to research or outreach programs preferred.
Education/Licensing: High school education and graduate of an ADA accredited program in dental hygiene required. Must possess a current valid Ohio hygiene license.
