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Hygienist Careers

Dental Depot was started
in Oklahoma City in 1978

What started as a private practice with nine chairs in a renovated duplex in Oklahoma City’s historic Linwood neighborhood has grown into a group practice spanning around 40 offices across four states, with more to come in 2023. In fact, Dental Depot is one of the largest employers in the state, with more than 500 Oklahomans at last count, and more than 200 employees in Texas, Arizona and Missouri. The business has been family-owned and operated by the Ashmore family since the beginning and the owners continue to practice here today.

A young boy learns to properly brush at dental depot

Becoming a Hygienist
with Dental Depot

As a hygienist, you’ll be responsible for performing  prophylaxis, periodontal scaling and examining oral areas including the head and neck for signs of oral disease. Hygienist are also responsible for educating patients on oral hygiene. Additionally, you may take x-rays, apply fluoride,  and even provide local anesthesia as needed by the dentist.

Hygienist Responsibilities

  • Clean calcareous deposits, accretions, and stains from teeth and beneath margins of gums, using dental instruments and/or ultrasonic technology.
  • Record and review patient medical histories.
  • Examine gums, using probes, to locate periodontal pockets and signs of gum disease.
  • Feel and visually examine gums for sores and signs of disease.
  • Expose periapical, bitewing and panoramic x rays.
  • Chart conditions of decay and disease for diagnosis and treatment by dentist.
  • Maintain dental equipment and sharpen and sterilize dental instruments.
  • Feel lymph nodes under patient’s chin to detect swelling or tenderness that could indicate presence of abnormalities.
A boy learns how to brush teeth at dental depot

Our Buildings

Dental Depot currently has around 40 locations across four states (Oklahoma, Texas, Arizona and Missouri), and even more locations in the works.

Our buildings are warm and inviting to all ages. There are clock towers, railroad crossing arms and signs, and large-scale trains in front for kids to enjoy. Whether it is a train running from room to room, or our amazing collection of memorabilia, there is always something interesting to capture peoples’ attention.

The trains started with small models running through the office. Later, exterior trains were added, which are really like art installations. They are built from scratch by our facilities team, and each one is unique

front view of one of the location

Frequently Asked
Questions by Hygienist

How much time do I get for each patient?

We schedule 1 hour for adult patients and 1.5 hours for Periodontal/Scaling and Root Planning. 

What is assisted hygiene?

Each hygienist has an assistant that is responsible for assisting with x-rays and polishing teeth, while the hygienist scales. The assistant and hygienist work together to provide quality dental hygiene services to the patient.

Do I get paid hourly or salary?

Hygienists are paid hourly.

Will I be required to clock out if a patient doesn't show up?

No. We do not ask you to clock out if your patient fails an appointment. If your schedule starts to fall apart, we ask that you work the recall list to help fill the schedule.
 

What does a numbing hygienist do?

Most of our clinics have a hygienist who is designated as the numbing hygienist. You will be required to provide local anesthetic to patients receiving restorative care. You may help sterilize instruments, clean rooms, seat patients, take xrays, and provide hygiene procedures while the patient waits for treatment.

Do I get a choice in instruments that I want to use?

Most of our hygiene kits have most commonly used instruments. We also have periodontal kits. If there is an instrument you desire, let your office manager know.
 

Will I be moved from office to office?

We generally station our hygienists in one location so they may establish relationships with their patients. On some occasions, we may ask you to help out at other locations if one becomes short-handed for the day.

The Dental Depot
Difference

A career at Dental Depot will give you a number of distinct advantages. You’ll be in a unique position to not only get the necessary reps you need to fine-tune your skills, but you’ll also learn the business side of running a successful practice. Plus, our collaborative environment allows you to participate in challenging patient care decisions, day one.

Questions?

We’re happy to help! Contact us by sending an email to recruitment@dentaldepot.net or call us at 1-800-997-8457

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