Hygiene Assistant

Job Overview

Downriver Smiles is seeking a motivated, dependable, and patient-focused Hygiene Assistant to join our growing dental team. In this role, you will work closely with our hygienists and doctors to provide exceptional patient care while maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient clinical environment. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering an outstanding patient experience.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to expand your clinical skills in a modern, patient-centered practice dedicated to excellence in dentistry.

Responsibilities

• Prepare treatment rooms before and after each patient by cleaning, disinfecting, and stocking supplies.
• Clean, sterilize, package, and maintain dental instruments and equipment in accordance with infection control standards.
• Primarily assist the dental hygienists during hygiene appointments while providing chairside support to the dentists as needed.
• Assist with digital radiographs, intraoral scanners, photography, and other diagnostic imaging procedures.
• Update medical histories, record vital signs when appropriate, and accurately document patient information in Open Dental.
• Escort patients to treatment rooms, ensure their comfort, and help maintain an efficient patient schedule.
• Support patient flow by coordinating with the front office and clinical team to keep appointments running on time.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene techniques, preventive care, and post-treatment instructions.
• Maintain inventory of clinical supplies and notify management when supplies require replenishment.
• Follow all HIPAA privacy requirements and maintain strict patient confidentiality.
• Consistently adhere to infection prevention protocols, aseptic techniques, and all office safety policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the clinical team and overall success of the practice.

Qualifications

• Dental assisting certification or completion of an accredited dental assisting program is required.
• Previous dental assisting or hygiene assisting experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, anatomy, and common dental procedures.
• Experience with digital radiography, intraoral scanners, and other modern dental technology is preferred.
• Proficiency with Open Dental software is preferred.
• Strong understanding of OSHA,sterilization, and infection control protocols.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a strong commitment to patient care.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Dependable, professional, and able to work effectively as part of a collaborative team.

What We Offer

At Downriver Smiles, we are committed to creating a positive and supportive workplace where our team members can grow professionally while making a meaningful impact on our patients' lives. We value teamwork, compassion, integrity, and excellence in patient care.

If you are passionate about dentistry, enjoy working with people, and are looking to grow your career in a modern dental practice, we encourage you to apply.

Pay: $18.00 - $26.00 per hour

Experience:

• Dental assisting: 1 year (Required)
• X-ray: 1 year (Required)
• Open Dental: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Certified Dental Assistant (Required)

Work Location: In person