Top 11 Orthodontist Assistant Certifications

Certifications for an orthodontist assistant are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, proficiency, and commitment to the profession that is highly sought after by employers. Certifications show that an orthodontist assistant has taken the time to learn the necessary skills and techniques to become proficient in their field, which adds value to their resume and makes them more competitive in the job market. Additionally, certifications can give orthodontist assistants access to higher-level positions with better pay and benefits.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Orthodontist Assistants and explain how they can help them further their career.

What are Orthodontist Assistant Certifications?

Orthodontist assistant certification is a type of professional credential that recognizes individuals who have completed specialized training and have demonstrated competency in the field of orthodontics. This certification is typically obtained by completing an accredited orthodontic assistant course and passing a comprehensive exam. The certification helps ensure that individuals possess the necessary knowledge and skills to assist orthodontists in providing quality care to patients. It also serves as recognition of their expertise and commitment to continuing education in the field. With this certification, orthodontic assistants can demonstrate their qualifications to potential employers and advance their career prospects. In addition, it may be required for certain types of jobs or promotions within the profession.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become an orthodontist assistant, make sure to get certified. Certification will give you the credentials and qualifications necessary to pursue a career in the field. Additionally, it can help open doors for job opportunities and can even increase your earning potential.

Related: What does an Orthodontist Assistant do?

Top 11 Orthodontist Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Orthodontist Assistants today.

1. Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA)

A Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) is a dental assistant who has completed additional training and certification in the field of orthodontics. The COA is trained to assist an orthodontist with patient care, from taking impressions to applying braces and other dental appliances. The COA also helps to educate patients about their treatment plan and provides instruction on proper oral hygiene during treatment.

To become a Certified Orthodontic Assistant, one must first complete a dental assisting program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). After completing the dental assisting program, applicants must then pass the National Board for Certification in Dental Assisting (NBCDA) exam. Once certified as a dental assistant, applicants can then pursue additional training and certification in orthodontics through approved programs offered by various organizations such as the American Association of Orthodontists or the American Dental Assistants Association.

The length of time required to become a Certified Orthodontic Assistant varies depending on the individual's experience level and education background. Generally speaking, it takes approximately two years to complete all of the necessary courses and exams required for certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Orthodontic Assistant will vary depending on where you take your courses and exams. Most programs require payment for tuition, textbooks, materials, and any applicable fees associated with taking exams. In addition, some programs may also require students to purchase additional equipment or supplies needed for clinical practice.

2. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

A Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) is a dental assistant who has achieved certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). This certification is the highest level of recognition for dental assistants and it signifies that they have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field.

In order to become a CDA, individuals must complete an accredited dental assisting program and pass a written exam administered by DANB. The exam consists of three components: Infection Control, Radiation Health & Safety (RHS), and General Chairside Assisting (GC). Candidates must pass all three sections within two years of completing their dental assisting program in order to be certified.

The cost to take the CDA exam varies depending on which components are taken. For example, the cost for all three components is $450 while the cost for just one component is $150. Additionally, there may be additional fees for retakes or late registration.

Once certified, CDAs must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every two years. They must also renew their certification every five years by submitting proof of completion of continuing education courses as well as paying a renewal fee.

3. Certified Orthodontic Technician (COT)

Certified Orthodontic Technician (COT) is a certification offered by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in orthodontic technology. The certification provides assurance to employers, patients and colleagues that the individual has demonstrated competency in the field of orthodontics.

The COT program consists of two parts: an online course and a practical exam. The online course covers topics such as orthodontic terminology, anatomy, instrumentation, patient care, and safety protocols. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the course. After completing the online course, candidates must pass a practical exam administered by AAO-certified orthodontists. The exam tests knowledge and skills related to orthodontic technology.

To become certified as an Orthodontic Technician, you must successfully complete both the online course and practical exam. The cost for the online course is $400 and the cost for the practical exam is $500.

4. American Association of Orthodontists Certification Program (AAOCP)

The American Association of Orthodontists Certification Program (AAOCP) is a program designed to recognize orthodontists who demonstrate excellence in their field. The AAOCP is the only certification program recognized by the American Association of Orthodontists and requires a rigorous process that includes both written and clinical examinations.

In order to become certified, an orthodontist must first meet certain educational requirements, including completing a minimum of two years of post-doctoral training in an accredited orthodontic residency program. Once these requirements have been met, the applicant must then pass both written and clinical examinations administered by the AAOCP. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of orthodontic care, while the clinical exam tests the orthodontist’s ability to diagnose and treat patients with various types of malocclusions.

The entire process typically takes between two and three years to complete, depending on how quickly the applicant can complete all required steps. In addition to passing both exams, applicants must also submit letters of recommendation from colleagues as well as documentation verifying completion of their residency program.

The cost for becoming certified through the AAOCP varies depending on several factors, including whether or not you are a member of the American Association of Orthodontists. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 for non-members and $1,500-$3,000 for members.

5. Certified Clinical Orthodontic Assistant (CCOA)

A Certified Clinical Orthodontic Assistant (CCOA) is a professional certification offered by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). It is a designation that recognizes individuals who have completed an approved program of orthodontic assisting and demonstrate competency in the field.

The CCOA program is designed to provide orthodontic assistants with the knowledge and skills they need to become competent professionals in their field. The program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site clinical exam. The online course covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, patient care, infection control, radiography, materials science, and orthodontic procedures. The on-site clinical exam tests the candidate’s knowledge and skills in areas such as patient management, chairside assistant duties, instrumentation techniques, and laboratory procedures.

To become certified as a CCOA, candidates must complete both the online course and the on-site clinical exam within three years of enrolling in the program. Candidates must also pass a background check prior to taking the on-site clinical exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a CCOA varies depending on where you take your courses and exams. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500 to $2,000 for tuition fees plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams or completing other requirements.

6. Certified Orthodontic Auxiliary (COAux)

Certified Orthodontic Auxiliary (COAux) is a certification program offered by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The program was created to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of orthodontics. The COAux certification is an important credential for those seeking to advance their career in the orthodontic field.

The COAux certification requires applicants to complete an extensive training program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The program typically takes two years to complete, depending on the individual’s schedule and availability. During the program, students must demonstrate competency in areas such as patient care, instrumentation, and practice management.

To become certified, applicants must successfully complete the AAO’s COAux exam, which consists of both written and practical components. The exam fee is $400 for members of the AAO and $500 for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals are eligible to use the title “Certified Orthodontic Auxiliary” or “COAux” after their name.

In addition to completing the training program and passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain requirements related to professional conduct and ethics. These include maintaining current malpractice insurance coverage, adhering to all applicable laws and regulations related to orthodontics, and completing continuing education courses as required by state licensing boards.

7. Invisalign-Certified Orthodontic Assistant (ICOA)

Invisalign-Certified Orthodontic Assistant (ICOA) is a certification program designed to provide orthodontic assistants with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist in the clinical treatment of Invisalign patients. The program consists of an online course, which covers topics such as patient communication, Invisalign product knowledge, patient records management, and more. Upon completion of the online course, participants must pass an exam to become certified.

It typically takes approximately 8 hours to complete the online course and pass the exam. The cost of the program is $299 USD. To get started, you must register for the program on the Invisalign website. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access your course materials and take the exam.

8. American Board of Orthodontics Certification Program (ABO-CP)

The American Board of Orthodontics Certification Program (ABO-CP) is a voluntary program that recognizes orthodontists who demonstrate excellence in the field of orthodontics. It is the only specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and requires a commitment to lifelong learning and dedication to providing exceptional care for patients.

The ABO-CP consists of two components: written examination and clinical examination. The written examination tests knowledge in basic sciences, orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management. The clinical examination evaluates an orthodontist’s ability to diagnose and treat malocclusions. Both components must be successfully completed in order to receive certification from the ABO-CP.

It typically takes approximately three years to complete the ABO-CP program. During this time, orthodontists must complete all required courses, pass both examinations, and submit their case reports for review.

To get started with the ABO-CP program, prospective candidates must first register with the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Registration requires completion of an application form and payment of a fee. Once registered, applicants will receive access to study materials and information about upcoming courses and examinations.

The cost of the ABO-CP program varies depending on the number of courses taken and exams taken; however, typically it costs between $2,000-$4,000 for registration fees plus additional fees for course materials and exam fees.

9. ClearCorrect-Certified Orthodontic Assistant (CCOAux)

ClearCorrect-Certified Orthodontic Assistant (CCOAux) is a certification program designed to help orthodontic assistants become more knowledgeable and competent in the field of orthodontics. This certification is offered by ClearCorrect, an orthodontic technology company that provides clear aligners for patients. The CCOAux program includes both online and hands-on training in order to provide the most comprehensive knowledge possible.

The program takes approximately 8 weeks to complete, with each week consisting of both online and hands-on learning. During the online portion, students will learn about topics such as patient care, treatment planning, orthodontic terminology, and patient education. The hands-on portion includes activities such as taking impressions, taking x-rays, fitting braces, and helping with retainers.

In order to get certified through this program, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old. They must also pass a background check and take a written exam before they can receive their certification.

The cost of the CCOAux program varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $1,500 for the entire course.

10. Certified Radiography Technician in Orthodontics (CRTO)

A Certified Radiography Technician in Orthodontics (CRTO) is a healthcare professional who specializes in taking and developing radiographs (x-rays) for orthodontic treatment. They are responsible for taking, developing, and interpreting x-rays of the teeth, jaws, and facial structures. The CRTO is an important part of the orthodontic team as they provide valuable information to help diagnose and treat orthodontic problems.

The process to become a Certified Radiography Technician in Orthodontics (CRTO) typically takes about two years to complete. It begins with completing a radiologic technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). After completing the program, applicants must pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam in order to become certified. Once certified, applicants must then complete additional coursework specific to orthodontic radiography through an approved provider.

The cost of becoming a Certified Radiography Technician in Orthodontics (CRTO) will vary depending on the individual’s educational background and location. Generally speaking, tuition for radiologic technology programs range from $7,000-$20,000 depending on the school and length of study. Additionally, there is a fee associated with taking the ARRT exam which is currently $200. Finally, there may be additional fees associated with any additional coursework required for certification.

In summary, becoming a Certified Radiography Technician in Orthodontics typically takes two years to complete and can cost anywhere from $7,000-$20,000 depending on individual circumstances.

11. Certified Dental Laboratory Technician in Orthodontics (CDLTO).

A Certified Dental Laboratory Technician in Orthodontics (CDLTO) is a professional that has been certified by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBCDLT). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the fabrication and installation of orthodontic appliances. The CDLTO certification is a voluntary credential that requires successful completion of an examination and continuing education requirements.

The CDLTO exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as dental anatomy, materials science, orthodontic appliance fabrication, and laboratory safety. The practical portion includes hands-on demonstrations of various techniques used to fabricate and install orthodontic appliances.

To become a CDLTO, applicants must first complete an accredited dental laboratory technician program or equivalent training. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements, including passing the NBCDLT's certification exam and completing at least five years of experience in the field of orthodontics.

The cost of becoming a CDLTO varies depending on the applicant’s educational background, experience level, and other factors. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $500-$1,000 for application fees, exam fees, and continuing education credits.

Overall, becoming a Certified Dental Laboratory Technician in Orthodontics can take anywhere from two to four years depending on an individual’s background and experience level. It is important to note that this certification does not replace any state licensure requirements; however it does demonstrate expertise in the field of orthodontics which may be beneficial when applying for jobs or advancing one’s career.

Do You Really Need a Orthodontist Assistant Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. For those who are seeking to become an orthodontist assistant, a certificate is often required or preferred. This certificate demonstrates that the individual has received specialized training in orthodontic procedures and possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assist an orthodontist.

For those who would like to pursue a career in dentistry but do not wish to specialize in orthodontics, a certificate may not be necessary. Depending on the individual's educational background and experience, it may be possible for them to obtain a job as a dental assistant without obtaining an orthodontic assistant certificate. However, it is important to note that obtaining such a certificate can provide additional credentials that may make one more competitive in the job market.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to obtain an orthodontic assistant certificate should be based on one’s career goals and how they wish to specialize their education and skillset within the field of dentistry.

Related: Orthodontist Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Orthodontist Assistant Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an Orthodontic Assistant?

Answer: To become an orthodontic assistant, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a dental assisting program approved by the American Dental Association (ADA), and obtain certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).

2. How long does it take to get certified as an Orthodontic Assistant?

Answer: It typically takes about six months to complete the training and prepare for the DANB certification exam.

3. What skills are needed to be an Orthodontic Assistant?

Answer: As an orthodontic assistant, you should be comfortable working with patients of all ages and have excellent communication and organizational skills. You should also possess knowledge of dental terminology, anatomy, dental instruments, and sterilization techniques.

4. Is there any continuing education required for Orthodontic Assistants?

Answer: Yes! In order to maintain your certification, you must participate in continuing education activities such as taking online courses or attending seminars related to orthodontics or dentistry.

5. What is the job outlook for Orthodontic Assistants?

Answer: The job outlook for orthodontic assistants is positive due to the increasing demand for their services in both private practice settings and hospitals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental assistants is expected to grow 11 percent from 2016-2026—much faster than average for all occupations.