{"id":57,"date":"2022-10-20T20:12:46","date_gmt":"2022-10-20T20:12:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nedentalacademy.com\/blog\/?p=57"},"modified":"2022-10-20T20:12:47","modified_gmt":"2022-10-20T20:12:47","slug":"what-is-an-orthodontic-dental-assistant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nedentalacademy.com\/blog\/?p=57","title":{"rendered":"What Is An Orthodontic Assistant?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"dental<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

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<\/a> work on their patients\u2019 teeth to help them enjoy healthier, stronger smiles, there are some key differences. Read on as we go over the basics of what it\u2019s like to be an orthodontic assistant!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Similarities Between Orthodontic & Dental Assistants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019s key that they have a friendly chair-side manner and help their patients feel relaxed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Unique Responsibilities of an Orthodontic Assistant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Naturally, the basics of an orthodontic assistant\u2019s duties will revolve around orthodontics. Some of the typical tasks you can expect include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n