Job summary
The Dental Therapist is responsible for providing a range of preventive and basic restorative dental care services to patients focusing on promoting oral health and preventing dental disease. This role involves conducting oral health assessments providing oral hygiene instruction performing scaling and polishing applying fluoride treatments and carrying out simple restorations under the direction of a dentist. The Dental Therapist will work closely with other members of the dental team to ensure comprehensive and coordinated patient care. This role is essential for improving oral health outcomes and promoting preventive dentistry within the community.
Main Duties:
- Conduct thorough oral health assessments reviewing patients medical and dental history to assess oral health status and identify risk factors.
- Provide individualized oral hygiene instruction to patients demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommending appropriate oral hygiene aids.
- Perform scaling and polishing procedures to remove plaque calculus and stains from teeth improving oral hygiene and preventing periodontal disease.
- Apply fluoride treatments to teeth to strengthen enamel and prevent dental caries.
- Perform simple restorations such as fillings under the direction of a dentist to repair decayed or damaged teeth.
- Maintain accurate and uptodate patient records documenting findings treatment plans and progress notes.
- Obtain informed consent from patients before performing any procedures explaining the risks benefits and alternatives.
- Adhere to infection control protocols maintaining a clean and sterile working environment.
- Participate in quality assurance activities monitoring patient outcomes and identifying areas for improvement.
- Refer patients to dentists for more complex treatment needs or specialized care.
- Collaborate with dentists and other members of the dental team to coordinate patient care.
- Work effectively with dental assistants and other staff members to provide efficient and coordinated patient care.
- Communicate effectively with patients providing clear and concise explanations of treatment plans and recommendations.
- Offer support and encouragement to patients addressing their concerns and promoting a positive dental experience.
- Participate in continuing education courses workshops and conferences to stay current with advances in dental therapy.
- Join and participate in professional organizations such as the Dental Therapists Association of Nigeria.
- Stay informed about current research and evidencebased practices in dental therapy.
- Adhere to ethical and professional standards maintaining integrity and professionalism in all interactions.
- Ensure that dental equipment is properly maintained and functioning reporting any issues to the appropriate personnel.
- Monitor and manage dental supplies ordering replacements as needed to maintain adequate stock levels.
- Ensure that dental instruments are properly sterilized and disinfected according to established protocols.
- Dispose of medical waste properly following established guidelines and regulations.
- Adhere to safety protocols using personal protective equipment PPE) and following infection control procedures.
- Strive to provide a positive patient experience addressing their concerns and ensuring their satisfaction with the care they receive.
- Participate in community outreach programs providing dental education and services to underserved populations.
- Promote the practice through community events presentations and other public relations activities.
- Collaborate with hospital administration to align practice goals with hospital objectives.
- Participate in professional organizations and conferences to stay uptodate on industry trends and best practices.
Requirements
Requirements
- Diploma or Bachelors degree in Dental Therapy from a recognized institution.
- Valid license to practice dental therapy in Nigeria from the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria.
- Excellent clinical skills and knowledge of current dental therapy practices.
- Strong communication interpersonal and problemsolving skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Commitment to providing highquality patient care.
Benefits
Salary:
N120000 monthly
Other Benefits:
Health cover
Professional development plan
Paid leave