Dental Hygienist

A Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Dental Hygienist works in a Dentist Office Practice within a correctional facility and will be a member of the VADOC Mobile Dental Unit, a unit that travels to other facilities and field units in the geographical area of the home base facility. Works in partnership with the institutional Dentist to provide routine and emergency dental care to adult offenders. Responsible for the full range of dental hygiene care and education provided to patients, including prevention, and treatment of diseases, injury, and deformities of the oral cavity. Performs routine dental cleanings and treatments, including examining teeth and gums for cavities, infections, and diseases, and takes necessary x-rays. Assignments to other duties or locations may be necessary to meet the clinical and administrative needs of the Department.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduate of a Dental Hygiene program from an accredited school approved by the Council on Dental Education, American Dental Association (ADA)

Licensed as a Dental Hygienist by the Virginia Board of Dentistry

Demonstrated ability to identify and treat oral health issues and educate patients on preventative care and treatment

Ability to travel to surrounding institutions and field units as a part of the Mobile Dental Team, providing dental care and oral healthcare to the patients at those sites

Ability to use dental technologies including radiography and computer-generated imaging

Working knowledge of general dentistry and the principles/practices of dental hygiene

Ability to communicate orally and in written form in a professional manner