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Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description Template

Job Description Template

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Description Template

August 23, 2021

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description Template

Are you looking to hire an Orthodontic Dental Assistant to join your company? Then you are in the right place. This Free Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description Template includes a list of the most important responsibilities and requirements for this position.

We know it’s not that simple for everyone to write a good job description that will gain the attention of a lot of applicants, that is why we are here to help.

With our applicant tracking system, you can use this Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description Template to attract qualified candidates, hire the employees you see fit, and save a lot of time.

This template is customizable, you can add any additional requirements or descriptions and post them to job posting sites.

Ready? Let’s go! 🚀

What is an Orthodontic Dental Assistant?

Orthodontic dental assistants help orthodontists with procedures such as installing braces and fixing overbites and collisions.

They ensure that patients are well-informed about their dental hygiene and aftercare.

Their duties include preparing orthodontic tools by sterilizing them, scheduling check-ups, and assisting with anything the orthodontists need help with when examining a patient.

Try and look for candidates who are passionate, trustworthy, and have great organizational skills.

Related Job Titles for Orthodontic Dental Assistant

The Top Orthodontic Dental Assistant Skills

Skill Why it's important
Interpersonal Skills

As an orthodontic dental assistant, you will be required to communicate with patients on a daily basis. You will also need to have good communication with your colleagues that you will be working closely with. Good interpersonal skills will enable you to create a pleasant environment in the office. Sometimes there will be patients who are stressed or scared, it is your job to make them feel at ease and comfortable.

Listening Skills

Dental assistants need to follow directions from other healthcare professionals, such as orthodontists and dental hygienists. A good listener is someone who keeps an open mind and is quick on their feet. Listening to the patient's needs is important, they should never feel uncomfortable or feel great pain.

Attention to Detail

A detail-oriented assistant is determined to find the root of the problem and has great patience. They should be focused on correcting issues when taking directions from the orthodontist and handling daily tasks effectively. As an assistant, you will be required to make sure patients have good dental hygiene, be attentive, and look for infections or issues when checking up on patients.

Organizational Skills

Every orthodontic dental assistant should have great organizational skills. As an assistant to the orthodontist, you are in charge of taking care of patients, recording, and scheduling checkups. Having this organized well ensures no overscheduling issues. Physical organization is also required, such as placing orthodontic instruments accordingly and decluttering tools on examination chairs.

Dexterity

Dental assistants should have good hand-to-eye coordination, just like orthodontists. They need to be careful and attentive when helping orthodontists. You must use precise equipment that requires you to work in tight quarters.

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description Template (Free)

We are looking to hire a responsible and experienced Orthodontic Dental Assistant to join our growing office and assist our orthodontists. In this position, your duties will include scheduling checkups, taking directions from the orthodontist, and sterilizing all the orthodontic instruments and equipment before a patient comes in for their scheduled check-up. You will also be required to maintain patient records and educate patients on dental hygiene and aftercare.

To be a successful orthodontic dental assistant, you should be able to demonstrate great communication skills as well as organizational skills. Our ideal candidate is someone who holds a valid license or dental assistant certificate.

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Maintaining patient records, oral health history, and treatment progress
  • Sterilizing all the orthodontic instruments and equipment before each use
  • Using a suction hose to keep the patient’s mouth dry during orthodontic procedures when needed
  • Taking intraoral X-rays of patients’ mouths.
  • Helping orthodontists develop treatment plans and document patients’ progress by taking photos of patients’ teeth
  • Creating customized retainers and mouth guards by taking dental moulds of patients’ teeth
  • Replacing and removing coil springs, elastic bands, replacing wires
  • Educating and informing patients on oral hygiene and braces aftercare.

Orthodontic Dental Assistant Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Dental assisting associate’s degree.
  • Certification by the Dental Assisting National Body (DANB) for dental assisting
  • Orthodontic assisting license
  • Previous experience
  • In-depth knowledge of various orthodontic practices and procedures
  • Good dexterity and hand-to-eye coordination
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Great organizational skills

Accounting Specialist Interview Questrions

Sample Interview Questions for an Orthodontic Dental Assistant

Once you gather all the received applications, you can use these sample interview questions for an Orthodontic Dental Assistant.

Personal
  1. Why did you want to become an orthodontic dental assistant?
  2. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  3. What is your educational background?
Human Resources
  1. How would you handle a patient that is scared?
  2. Have you ever had a disagreement with an orthodontist? How did you handle it?
  3. What would you say is the key to having good teamwork?
Management
  1. How would you handle a patient that is scared?
  2. Have you ever had a disagreement with an orthodontist? How did you handle it?
  3. What would you say is the key to having good teamwork?
Technical Skills and Knowledge
  1. What advice would you give someone who just had braces installed?
  2. How would you notice that a patient isn’t having good oral hygiene?

What are the Educational Requirements for an Orthodontic Dental Assistant?

 

Formal Education or Training

Prospective Orthodontic Dental Assistants typically complete a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or an equivalent organization. However, specialized training in orthodontic assisting may also be required or preferred. These programs may result in a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in dental assisting.

State Requirements

Some states have specific requirements for Dental Assistants, including Orthodontic Dental Assistants, which may include obtaining licensure or certification. Requirements vary by state and may involve passing an exam or meeting other criteria set by the state’s dental board.

On-the-Job Training

In addition to formal education, Orthodontic Dental Assistants often receive on-the-job training from orthodontists or experienced dental assistants. This training may include instruction on specialized orthodontic procedures, such as taking impressions for orthodontic appliances, adjusting braces, and assisting with orthodontic treatment planning, providing practical skills necessary for success in the role.

How Much to Pay an Orthodontic Dental Assistant when Hiring

Orthodontic Dental Assistants can earn between $15 and $23 per hour. 

Their median annual salary is $39,853, meaning $19 per hour. 

These salaries depend on the area of employment, educational history, and prior expertise.

Percentile 10% 25% 50%
(Median)
75% 90%
Hourly Wage $15 $17 $19 $21 $23
Annual Wage $31,234 $35,342 $39,853 $44,219 $48,194

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Frequently Asked Questions about Orthodontic Dental Assistant

 

What qualifications are necessary for an Orthodontic Dental Assistant role?

Qualifications typically include completing a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or an equivalent organization.

Additionally, specialized training in orthodontic assisting may be required or preferred.

What are the primary responsibilities of an Orthodontic Dental Assistant?

Orthodontic Dental Assistants assist orthodontists during patient examinations and orthodontic treatments, take impressions and X-rays, prepare patients for procedures, assist with the placement and adjustment of braces and other orthodontic appliances, and provide patient education and instruction on orthodontic care.

What skills are essential for success in the role of an Orthodontic Dental Assistant?

Key skills for an Orthodontic Dental Assistant include proficiency in dental assisting techniques, specialized knowledge of orthodontic procedures and terminology, ability to work well in a team, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently.

How does an Orthodontic Dental Assistant contribute to the success of an orthodontic practice?

Orthodontic Dental Assistants play a crucial role in supporting orthodontists and ensuring the smooth operation of an orthodontic practice.

They assist with patient care, perform specialized orthodontic procedures, maintain a clean and sterile environment, handle administrative tasks, and contribute to a positive patient experience, ultimately helping to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the practice.

Similar Job Descriptions as Orthodontic Dental Assistant

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