The dental industry is a multi-faceted field with many specialties, one of which is orthodontics. This specialty revolves around correcting misaligned teeth and bites with treatments like braces, aligners, retainers, jaw expanders, and more. While both dental and orthodontic assistants work on their patients’ teeth to help them enjoy healthier, stronger smiles, there are some key differences. Read on as we go over the basics of what it’s like to be an orthodontic assistant!
Similarities Between Orthodontic & Dental Assistants
At their core, the positions of an orthodontic assistant and a dental assistant are very similar. Many of their daily job duties and training requirements overlap. In fact, many orthodontic assistants were first dental assistants! In both cases, it is essential to have an in-depth knowledge of the mouth, teeth, and other oral structures, as well as the training to handle certain equipment and tools. Both types of assistants often perform some clerical tasks as well, such as inventory management and patient scheduling.
Most importantly, both orthodontic assistants and dental assistants need to be able to work independently as well as alongside the orthodontist or dentist. Four-handed dentistry will look slightly different in each case, but will follow the same principles. As the assistants work with the patients individually, it’s key that they have a friendly chair-side manner and help their patients feel relaxed.
The Unique Responsibilities of an Orthodontic Assistant
Naturally, the basics of an orthodontic assistant’s duties will revolve around orthodontics. Some of the typical tasks you can expect include:
- Assisting the orthodontist during the patient’s oral health and orthodontic assessment
- Performing routine orthodontic tasks, such as cleaning the teeth and adjusting the orthodontics
- Cleaning and sterilizing medical equipment, tools, and work areas
- Preparing tools and examination rules for the orthodontist, retrieving the items they may need during the appointment
- Taking X-rays, digital images, casts, molds, and impressions of the patient’s teeth, then analyze the collected data to check treatment progress
- Supporting orthodontists during orthodontic emergencies
- Greeting and checking in patients, including asking them if they’re experiencing issues, recording their answers, and answering any questions they may have
How to Become an Orthodontic Assistant
If you are interested in becoming an orthodontic assistant, the first thing you should do is review your state’s requirements. While some requirements will vary from state to state, many of them will hold true nationwide. In the United States, you must complete a one-year dental assisting certificate or a two-year associate’s degree program in orthodontic assisting. To enroll in these programs, you’ll often need your high school diploma or a GED, plus a CPR certification, unless that is included in the program.
From there, you should research which program to enroll in. Research your options carefully and compare their benefits. Many dental assisting schools offer classes in orthodontics. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should discount any that do not. Remember, most orthodontic assistants start out as a dental assistant, then continue their training while starting their career in dentistry. The best dental assisting schools will have job placement assistance and experienced professionals who can help you take the next best steps towards becoming an orthodontic assistant.
About the Practice
At NE Dental Academy, we are truly committed to helping our students start a thriving and meaningful career as a dental assistant. Our practical, expert-run program has some of the best instructors, resources, and opportunities out of any dental assisting school in New England. Our classes focus on teaching our students marketable skills that can be applied in specialty dental offices, including orthodontic practices. To learn more about becoming an orthodontic assistant, we can be reached online or at (508) 425-6644.