Orthodontist Assistant Duties

An orthodontist assistant is a dental assistant who works in the field of orthodontics, the branch of dentistry concerned with straightening teeth and correcting other deformities. In an orthodontist's office, an assistant performs a variety of duties.

Set-up

An orthodontist assistant lays out the instruments that an orthodontist will utilize before an appointment. She also fills up rinsing cups and lay outs paper coverings for the patient and the instrument tray.

Laboratory Duties

An orthodontist assistant often administers and develops X-rays used to diagnose the severity of certain conditions, such as over or underbites. She also produces plaster casts of patients' mouths for use in fitting retainers, braces and other headgear.

Cleaning and Maintenance

During patient check-ups, an orthodontist assistant is responsible for cleaning the braces and retainers. She also replaces the wires that make up braces and repair retainers and other headgear as needed.

Clean Up

After an appointment, an orthodontist assistant collects the used instruments, cleans the examination room and sterilizes the instruments.

Administrative

In some offices, an orthodontist assistant is responsible for answering phones, setting appointments, maintaining patient records, and submitting reimbursement requests to insurance companies.

References

• Orthodontist assistant information