Mobile Dental Hygienist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of mobile health care, the focus on mobile dental hygienists has become paramount.

As healthcare evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can deliver, enhance, and secure our mobile dental services increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a mobile dental hygienist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of mobile dental hygiene,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable mobile dental hygienist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Mobile Dental Hygienist Duties and Responsibilities

Mobile Dental Hygienists primarily work outside of traditional dental office settings, providing dental services at various locations such as schools, nursing homes, and community centers.

They are responsible for performing preventive dental care and educating patients about oral health.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting dental health screenings and assessments
• Performing preventative dental procedures such as cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealant application
• Examining patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis
• Removing plaque and calculus from teeth using dental instruments
• Educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices
• Documenting patient care and treatment plans
• Collaborating with dentists to plan and provide treatment
• Maintaining dental equipment and ensuring sanitation standards are met
• Managing inventory and ordering dental supplies as needed
• Providing dental health presentations to community groups or schools

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a professional and caring Mobile Dental Hygienist to join our mobile dental care unit.

The candidate will be responsible for providing oral health care and education to patients in various locations.

Mobile Dental Hygienist responsibilities include conducting oral examinations, cleaning teeth, and providing preventive dental care.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with mobile dental units and has excellent patient management skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Mobile Dental Hygienist is to provide high-quality, innovative oral care that complies with industry standards and ethical guidelines.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct oral examinations and provide preventive dental care
• Remove calculus, stains, and plaque from all surfaces of the teeth
• Apply preventive materials to the teeth (sealants and fluorides)
• Teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health
• Complete patient screening procedures; such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of health history, oral cancer screening, and blood pressure monitoring
• Document patient care and treatment plans
• Manage dental emergencies
• Evaluate patient’s overall oral health examining oral cavity for signs of periodontal disease or possible cancers.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Dental Hygienist
• Graduate of an accredited Dental Hygiene program
• Valid license to practice Dental Hygiene in the state
• Ability to prepare dental equipment and instruments
• Excellent communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Stamina to meet the physical demands of the job
• Ability to manage patients with anxiety and special needs
• Valid driver’s license as travel is a requirement of the job

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Mobile Dental Hygienist
• Work Environment: Mobile dental unit with frequent travel. Some weekend work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Dental Hygienist or Dental Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Mobile Dental Hygienist Do?

A Mobile Dental Hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who travels to various locations to provide dental care.

They primarily work outside of traditional dental offices.

They can serve patients in their homes, nursing homes, schools, and other community settings where traditional dental services may not be easily accessible.

Their primary role is to clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and provide other preventive dental care.

They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health.

They perform many tasks, including cleaning, scaling, and polishing teeth, taking dental X-rays, and providing fluoride treatments.

Some Mobile Dental Hygienists may also assist dentists in more complex procedures and tasks, applying sealants and desensitizing agents, and even performing teeth whitening treatments.

The Mobile Dental Hygienist must be able to transport their equipment safely and set up a clean and sterile environment in a variety of settings.

They are responsible for maintaining patient records and may need to coordinate with other healthcare providers.

They play a key role in increasing accessibility to dental services, particularly for underserved populations, the elderly, or those with mobility issues.

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Qualifications and Skills

A Mobile Dental Hygienist must demonstrate a blend of technical knowledge, soft skills, and industry expertise, including:

• Comprehensive knowledge and expertise in oral health, oral hygiene, and dental procedures to provide quality dental care and oral health education.
• Proficient in using various dental equipment and tools, and adhering to safety measures to ensure patient comfort and safety during procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish a rapport with patients, understanding their concerns, and explaining procedures in a reassuring manner.
• Strong organizational skills to efficiently manage appointments, maintain patient records, and ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are available and in working order.
• Superior manual dexterity for performing intricate procedures accurately and gently, minimizing patient discomfort.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively coordinate with dentists, other medical professionals, and administrative staff.
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, providing dental care in various settings such as patients’ homes, nursing homes, or community centers.
• Physical stamina and resilience as the role may require standing for long periods, travelling between locations, and handling potentially stressful situations.

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Experience Requirements

Mobile Dental Hygienists typically gain their initial experience through a state-accredited dental hygiene program where they earn an associate degree, though a bachelor’s or master’s degree may be required for certain research, teaching, or clinical practice in public or school health programs.

The length of these programs varies, but they generally last for 2 to 4 years.

During this time, students gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience through clinical rotations.

Entry-level positions often require a dental hygienist to have 1 to 2 years of practical experience, which may be obtained through internships or part-time roles in dental offices or clinics.

Some employers may also require experience with mobile dental units.

Mid-level positions for Mobile Dental Hygienists usually require at least 3 to 5 years of practical experience.

At this stage, hygienists may have developed their skills to administer local anesthesia, perform periodontal therapy, and manage dental emergencies.

Senior-level or supervisory roles often require more than 5 years of experience.

These individuals may have demonstrated leadership skills and may have managed a team of dental professionals or operated their mobile dental unit.

Some positions may also require experience in community outreach or public health.

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Education and Training Requirements

Mobile Dental Hygienists are typically required to hold a minimum of an associate degree or certificate in dental hygiene from an accredited dental hygiene school.

These programs involve a combination of classroom instruction in subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, radiology, and periodontology, as well as clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

All states require dental hygienists to be licensed; this usually requires completion of an accredited dental hygiene program, passing written and clinical exams, and in some states, completing a state jurisprudence and ethics examination.

In addition to these basic requirements, Mobile Dental Hygienists need to be familiar with portable dental equipment and have the ability to provide dental care in a variety of settings, such as schools, nursing homes, and patients’ homes.

Continuous professional development is important in this role, and many Mobile Dental Hygienists choose to pursue additional training or certifications in areas such as pediatric dental hygiene, geriatric dental hygiene, or special needs dental care.

A bachelor’s or master’s degree may not be required for all positions, but may be beneficial for those seeking administrative, academic, or corporate roles within dental hygiene.

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Salary Expectations

A Mobile Dental Hygienist can expect to earn an average salary of $76,220 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary widely depending on experience, specialization, location, and the organization they are affiliated with.

 

Mobile Dental Hygienist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Mobile Dental Hygienist need?

Mobile Dental Hygienists need excellent interpersonal and communication skills as they interact directly with patients.

They also require strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently as they travel to provide care.

Manual dexterity and precision are crucial for performing dental procedures.

They should also have a good understanding of dental health education to advise patients accordingly.

 

Do Mobile Dental Hygienists need a degree?

Yes, to become a Mobile Dental Hygienist, one must have an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited institution.

Some states may also require a Bachelor’s degree.

Additionally, they should pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and meet any state-specific licensing requirements.

 

What should you look for in a Mobile Dental Hygienist resume?

Firstly, verify their licensure and educational qualifications.

Look for experience in providing dental care, especially outside of a traditional dental office setting.

Certifications in CPR or other emergency procedures can also be beneficial.

A good Mobile Dental Hygienist resume should highlight their ability to manage time effectively and work independently.

 

What qualities make a good Mobile Dental Hygienist?

A good Mobile Dental Hygienist is patient and understanding, as they often work with individuals who may be anxious about dental procedures.

They should be organized, efficient, and capable of managing their own schedules.

Good physical stamina is also necessary, as the role can be physically demanding.

 

What are the challenges of hiring a Mobile Dental Hygienist?

Hiring a Mobile Dental Hygienist can be challenging due to the specific skills and qualifications required.

They should be able to perform dental procedures independently, possess a valid driver’s license, and be willing to travel regularly.

Ensuring they have the right temperament to work with diverse patients, including the elderly, children, or patients with disabilities, can also be a challenge.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it truly means to be a mobile dental hygienist.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

It’s about advocating for oral health, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive mobile dental hygienist job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to make your move.

But why end your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously designed job postings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a step towards a healthier world.

Let’s create that world. Together.

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