Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description
Orthodontic dental assistants work in a dental office where they assist patients receiving orthodontic dental work. This position prepares materials and equipment for the orthodontist, and also manages dental records. The orthodontic dental assistant helps patients relax and maintain a level of comfort prior to dental procedures. This position also assists the orthodontist by helping install orthodontic mouth gear and any required casts.
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Primary Responsibilities
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Orthodontic dental assistants prepare patients for x-rays and process them as required. They may also have the responsibility of adjusting orthodontic equipment in the patient's mouth. Prior to the orthodontist's arrival, the assistant cleans the patient's teeth. The assistant may also perform administrative duties such as processing payments and ordering supplies.
Work Environment
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Orthodontic dental assistants work in dental offices where the environment is clean and sterile. This position requires the wearing of gloves, safety glasses and facial masks. This gear protects the dental assistant from potential illnesses the patient may have. Most orthodontic dental assistants put in a typical workweek of 40 hours, while some may have to work on weekends.
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Education
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Orthodontic dental assistants often do not need formal training to enter the profession. Those interested in pursuing this position can enroll in a diploma program, which typically takes one year to complete. Some vocational schools provide courses but may not offer the necessary accreditation. Additionally, community colleges offer associate's degrees for dental assistants. Some states require a license prior to obtaining a job as an orthodontic dental assistant, while some offices provide in-house training for assistants.
Qualifications
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Orthodontic dental assistants should have good communication skills and basic administrative knowledge. The position requires interaction with patients, so dental assistants should have customer service skills as well. The job requires the ability to work with orthodontists, which requires the incumbent to understand the style of her employer.
Salary
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Orthodontic dental assistants can expect to earn an average annual salary $39,000, according to Indeed.com.
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References
- Photo Credit two dentist image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com
