Orthodontic Assistant - Career Profile |
Career OverviewThe orthodontic assistant works with the orthodontist to design and implement the appropriate treatment to help straighten and realign patient’s teeth and jaws. The orthodontic assistant often does a very high percentage of the actual work with the patient with regards to the braces or other corrective devices while under the direct supervision of the dentists.
The orthodontic assistant may be responsible for taking x-rays, making molds and impressions of the teeth, adjusting the braces as the treatment continues, charting and updating patient care notes and files. The orthodontic assistant may also work with the families, especially in cases where younger children are receiving services from the orthodontist.
The orthodontic assistant may be required to take photographs of the patient’s mouth and face and answer basic questions as to the progress of the procedure.
An orthodontic assistant should be very well spoken and should be able to communicate effectively about the procedures that will be used. He or she will be working directly with patients so should be able to work well with both children and adults.
The orthodontic assistant needs to be organized and able to work on multiple tasks at one time while remaining calm and reassuring to the patient. Since the orthodontic assistant is part of the orthodontic treatment team it is critical that he or she be able to keep good notes and records of progress as well note any possible problems or issues and ensure that they are addressed by the orthodontist.
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Career RequirementsAn orthodontic assistant requires a high school diploma or equivalency as well as a minimum two years of training that results in either a certificate or an associate’s degree, depending on the program.
Many states also allow an apprenticeship type training that can take up to four years to complete but may also be complete in two. Most individuals that take the apprenticeship track are already working for orthodontists or dentists in some other role or specialty area.
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Job OutlookThere continues to be a steady increase in demand for trained and certified orthodontic assistants. As more and more adults and children are referred for corrective treatment to their teeth the need for orthodontic assistants to complete the basic patient care increases. As with most dental assistant jobs the larger centers offer better options for career advancement and hiring simply because there are more orthodontists in the region.
Many orthodontists with busy practices prefer to hire already trained staff rather than work with individuals in apprenticeship programs. It is therefore recommended that prospective orthodontic assistants consider taking formal training rather than completing the lengthy apprenticeship program.
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Career TrackAn orthodontic assistant has options to move up into supervisory roles especially as they gain seniority. They may also choose to work for several years to gain experience in the field and then return to school to complete their full orthodontist training.
Some orthodontic assistants may also return to schools and colleges to act as supervisors and instructors for new orthodontic assistants.
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CompensationMost orthodontic assistants are paid an hourly wage that ranges from $12.00 to $15.00 per hour based on seniority and work experience and duties. Some orthodontic assistants with specialization in radiology or other areas can anticipate earning in excess of $20.00 per hour.
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