How to Be Orthodontic Assistant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Having an orthodontic assistant can greatly improve the efficiency of an orthodontic practice by providing a skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced assistant to help with patient care. The assistant can ensure that the practice is running smoothly, and can also provide support to the orthodontist with tasks such as sterilizing and cleaning instruments, taking X-rays, making impressions, and helping with patient education. As a result, the orthodontist can focus on providing excellent care to their patients, leading to improved patient satisfaction, better outcomes, and increased revenue for the practice.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. The first step to becoming an orthodontic assistant is to obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require applicants to have at least this level of education before applying for a position.
2. Research Orthodontic Assistant Programs. The next step is to research orthodontic assistant programs that are available in your area. There are a variety of programs offered at vocational schools and community colleges. These programs usually take between one and two years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on learning.
3. Enroll in an Orthodontic Assistant Program. Once you have identified a program that meets your needs, you can enroll in the program and begin taking classes. During your program, you will learn the basics of orthodontic care, including how to take x-rays, prepare patients for appointments, and assist the orthodontist during treatments.
4. Obtain Certification. After completing your program, you may be eligible to take an exam to become a Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA). This certification is not required for all positions, but it can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.
5. Find a Job. Once you have completed your program and obtained your certification (if applicable), you can begin searching for an orthodontic assistant position. You can search online job boards and apply directly to orthodontic offices in your area. It is also helpful to network with other professionals in the field who may have leads on open positions.

The role of an Orthodontic Assistant is to assist orthodontists in providing quality orthodontic care to patients. An ideal Orthodontic Assistant should be capable of performing a variety of tasks, including taking impressions, preparing materials for braces, and assisting with patient education. Furthermore, they should possess good communication skills, be detail-oriented, and able to follow instructions.

Having these capabilities can lead to a successful career in this field as an Orthodontic Assistant. Without them, an individual may find it difficult to adequately perform duties and meet the expectations of their employer. Therefore, being an ideal and capable Orthodontic Assistant is essential for the success of any practice.

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Job Description

1. Prepare patients for orthodontic treatment by taking x-rays, photographs and impressions of teeth.
2. Provide patient education on proper oral hygiene and care of orthodontic appliances.
3. Fit, adjust and repair braces and other orthodontic appliances.
4. Use various tools, such as pliers and wax, to modify orthodontic appliances.
5. Assist orthodontists in the placement of braces and other appliances.
6. Monitor patient progress by taking periodic measurements and x-rays.
7. Fabricate retainers, night guards and other orthodontic appliances, as directed by the orthodontist.
8. Keep accurate records of patient visits and treatments.
9. Maintain a clean and organized work area.
10. Schedule patient appointments and ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed prior to the appointment.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of orthodontic materials, instruments, and procedures
2. Ability to take dental impressions and records
3. Ability to assist in treatment, including taking X-rays, placing and removing braces and arch wires
4. Ability to educate patients on proper oral hygiene
5. Ability to interact with patients in a professional and friendly manner
6. Knowledge of infection control procedures
7. Knowledge of medical/dental terminology
8. Ability to work with computers
9. Ability to work independently and in a team setting
10. Excellent organizational skills

Good communication skills are one of the most important skills for an orthodontic assistant to have. Being able to effectively communicate with patients, colleagues, and healthcare professionals is essential for an orthodontic assistant to provide the best care to their patients. Communication skills can help an orthodontic assistant to explain treatment options clearly, answer questions, and effectively administer treatments.

Having strong communication skills will also help an orthodontic assistant to build a strong relationship with their patients, as trust and respect are necessary for any successful treatment. As a result, having good communication skills will help an orthodontic assistant to be successful in their job and provide the best care for their patients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have as an Orthodontic Assistant?
• How do you handle patient discomfort during orthodontic treatment?
• What techniques do you use to ensure patient satisfaction?
• What do you consider to be the most important qualities of a successful Orthodontic Assistant?
• How do you keep track of patient records and other documentation?
• Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult patient situation.
• How would you manage the front desk and other administrative duties?
• What do you know about the latest orthodontic technology and its benefits?
• Are you familiar with different types of braces and other orthodontic appliances?
• How do you stay current on orthodontic procedures and trends?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Oral Mirror. A tool used to help the orthodontist see the back of the patient’s mouth. (eg: to help align brackets on the back molars)
2. Orthodontic Pliers. A tool used to adjust and manipulate orthodontic appliances. (eg: to remove or tighten a wire)
3. Bracket Remover. A tool used to remove orthodontic brackets from teeth. (eg: to remove brackets after treatment is finished)
4. Band Seaters. A tool used to help place metal bands around the teeth during treatment. (eg: to help secure a bracket to a tooth)
5. Dental X-Ray Machine. A tool used to take X-rays of the patient’s teeth. (eg: to check for impacted teeth or jaw misalignment)
6. Impression Trays. A tool used to take impressions of the patient’s teeth. (eg: to make a dental model of the patient’s teeth)
7. Wax Bite Blocks. A tool used to help the orthodontist measure and adjust the patient’s bite. (eg: to adjust the patient’s bite before placing braces)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
2. American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)
3. American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA)
4. American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA)
5. American Society of Dentistry for Children (ASDC)
6. International Association for Orthodontics (IAO)
7. International Association of Dental Research (IADR)
8. Orthodontic Educators Association (OEA)
9. World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO)

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Common Important Terms

1. Occlusion. The relationship between the upper and lower teeth when they come together.
2. Orthodontic Bracket. A small metal or ceramic bracket that is cemented to the surface of a tooth and used to hold the archwire in place.
3. Archwire. A thin metal wire that is used to move the teeth.
4. Bonding. A process of adhering an orthodontic bracket to a tooth using a dental adhesive.
5. Impression. An imprint of the teeth and surrounding structures taken as a mold for study or for making a removable dental appliance.
6. Malocclusion. An abnormal alignment or position of the teeth, which can affect the bite.
7. Plaque. A soft, sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles and saliva that builds up on teeth and gums and can cause cavities and gum disease.
8. Retainer. A custom-made orthodontic appliance used to maintain the position of teeth after orthodontic treatment.
9. Spacers. A small device made of rubber or metal that is used to create space between teeth before braces are placed.
10. Headgear. An orthodontic appliance used to correct improper jaw growth or serious bite problems by applying pressure on the upper teeth and jaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Orthodontic Assistant?

An Orthodontic Assistant is a member of a dental team who provides specialized assistance to an orthodontist during the treatment of patients with misaligned teeth and jaws.

What are the duties of an Orthodontic Assistant?

Orthodontic Assistants typically perform clinical duties such as preparing patients for treatment, taking and recording patient x-rays, helping with the placement of braces and other orthodontic appliances, assisting with patient education and providing chairside assistance to the orthodontist.

What qualifications are needed to become an Orthodontic Assistant?

To work as an Orthodontic Assistant, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as a minimum of two years of experience in a dental office. Additionally, some states require certification in order to practice as an Orthodontic Assistant.

How much do Orthodontic Assistants earn on average?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Orthodontic Assistants in 2019 was $37,810.

What kind of work environment can an Orthodontic Assistant expect?

Orthodontic Assistants typically work in a clean, well-lit office environment with other dental professionals. They may also be exposed to radiation during x-ray procedures.

What are jobs related with Orthodontic Assistant?

• Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator
• Orthodontic Treatment Planner
• Orthodontic Billing and Coding Specialist
• Dental Reimbursement Specialist
• Orthodontist
• Orthodontics Records Clerk
• Orthodontics Billing and Coding Specialist
• Oral Pathologist
• Prosthodontist
• Special Needs Dental Assistant

Web Resources

• What Do Orthodontic Assistants Do: Daily Work & Skills - Franklin www.franklin.edu
• Orthodontist Assistant Certification | Enroll at Howard Academy howardacademy.edu
• 7 Steps for Becoming an Orthodontic Assistant - Howard Healthcare Ac… howardacademy.edu