What does an Orthodontist Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
An orthodontist assistant helps the orthodontist with patient care. They may take X-rays, photos, and impressions of teeth, as well as fit and adjust braces. They also educate patients on how to care for their teeth and braces.
Orthodontist Assistant job duties include:
- Greet patients and escort them to the examination room
- Prepare patients for treatment by washing and drying their teeth
- Apply braces, arch wires, and other appliances to teeth, using hand tools
- Remove braces, arch wires, and other appliances from teeth, using hand tools
- Examine patients' mouths to determine the nature of the malocclusion and develop a treatment plan in consultation with the orthodontist
- Take dental impressions or x-rays of patients' teeth
- Clean and sterilize orthodontic equipment
- Keep records of patients' oral health
- Schedule appointments for patients
Orthodontist Assistant Job Requirements
An Orthodontist Assistant is responsible for providing direct patient care in the orthodontic office. They work closely with the orthodontist to provide quality patient care. The Orthodontist Assistant must have completed a formal education program and have certification from the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. In addition, they must have at least one year of experience working in an orthodontic office.
Orthodontist Assistant Skills
- Patient interaction
- Scheduling
- Inventory management
- Treatment coordination
- Financial management
- Charting
- X-rays
- Photography
- Models
- Impressions
- Fittings
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How to become an Orthodontist Assistant
An orthodontist assistant is a key member of an orthodontic team. They work closely with patients, orthodontists and other dental professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
To become an orthodontist assistant, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete an accredited orthodontic assistant program. Upon completion of your training, you will be eligible to take the Orthodontic Assistant National Board Exam.
Orthodontist assistants must be detail-oriented and have excellent communication skills. They must be able to work well under pressure and be able to multitask. If you are interested in becoming an orthodontist assistant, contact your local dental society or college for more information.
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