Are you on the lookout for the best orthodontic dental assistant to join your team? You’re in the right spot! Crafting an orthodontic assistant job description that stands out and attracts the right candidates can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back.
Our orthodontic dental assistant job description template is here to make your hiring journey smoother. It’s packed with all the essential responsibilities and requirements for the role. And guess what? It’s super easy to use! Ready to find the perfect fit for your team? Let’s get started!
What is an Orthodontic Dental Assistant?
Orthodontic dental assistants are the backbone of orthodontic procedures, assisting orthodontists in tasks like scheduling checkups, installing braces, and sterilizing tools. They take charge of ensuring patients understand how to maintain their oral health post-treatment.
When seeking candidates, prioritize passion, trustworthiness, and exceptional organizational skills. Keep an eye out for individuals who pay attention to detail or have strong communication. Your ideal pick? A team player devoted to brightening every smile!
Template of Orthodontic Dental Assistant Job Description
We are seeking an experienced orthodontic dental assistant to aid the orthodontist during patient consultations and routine check-ups. Responsibilities involve following the orthodontist’s instructions, preparing patients’ teeth before braces, and removing braces after treatments. Maintaining the availability of essential tools for appointments is also important.
The ideal candidate must possess strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for patient safety during procedures. Patience, exceptional organizational abilities, and effective communication are key qualities for this role.
Orthodontic Assistant Job Duties
- Keeping accurate records of patients’ dental health history and how their treatments are going.
- Making sure all tools and equipment used for braces are clean and germ-free before each use.
- Using a suction hose to keep patients’ mouths dry while fixing their braces.
- Taking X-ray pictures inside patients’ mouths.
- Taking photos of patients’ teeth to help the Orthodontist plan their treatment and track their progress.
- Making molds of patients’ teeth to create special mouthguards and retainers.
- Changing wires, coil springs, donuts, and elastic bands during appointments.
- Teaching patients how to take care of their teeth and braces properly.
Orthodontic Dental Assistant Requirements
- Completion of high school or GED.
- Obtained an Associate degree in dental assisting.
- Certification as an orthodontic assistant from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
- Licensed to provide orthodontic assistance. Current CPR certification.
- Demonstrated experience as an orthodontic dental assistant.
- Solid understanding of different orthodontic procedures and practices.
- Proficient manual dexterity.
- Strong organizational abilities.
- Good communication skills.
Orthodontic Assistant Skills
Being an orthodontic assistant isn’t just about doing the job – it’s about having some essential skills. Let’s check out these skills that turn you from a regular assistant into the best assistant in the orthodontic team!
- Critical Decision-Making: The dynamic nature of an orthodontist’s office requires the ability to think on your feet, make quick decisions, and solve problems under high-pressure circumstances.
- Technical Proficiency: Dental care, especially orthodontic care, demands precision using delicate instruments while ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Physical Skill and Capability: Orthodontic assistants engage in physically demanding tasks, including operating equipment, cleaning instruments, and being on their feet for extended periods. Physical health and stamina are vital for this role.
- Collaborative Teamwork: Orthodontic professionals operate within a team environment. Successful orthodontic assistants must be adept at working collaboratively, possessing strong communication skills, a balance of leadership and listening abilities, and demonstrating patience and respect towards colleagues.
Job Outlook for Orthodontic Assistants
Schedule & Work Environment
- Early Morning Start: Commencing duties 30 to 45 minutes before the dental office opens. Tasks include preparing examination rooms for morning appointments, reviewing patient schedules, and ensuring the sterilization of all dental instruments.
- High Level of Social Interaction: Engaging extensively with patients, dentists, and office staff. This interaction often entails dealing with challenging situations involving unpleasant, angry, or discourteous patients.
- Protective Clothing: Wear daily protective gear, such as masks, safety glasses, and rubber gloves. Exposure to diseases, infections, and contaminants is commonplace during interactions with patients or when preparing filling material.
- Work as Part of a Team: Collaborating within a team and maintaining daily communication through in-person interactions, telephone calls, and emails.
- Physical Work Conditions: Operating indoors, with occasional exposure to radiation during x-ray procedures. Wearing protective gear is standard when handling x-ray equipment.
- Work Performance: Requiring precision and accuracy in tasks, as errors could jeopardize patient health. Performing repetitive tasks like handling instruments and operating x-ray equipment. Decision-making is integral and impacts the well-being of patients.
- Scheduling: The possibility of working part-time or full-time, with schedules typically under 40 hours per week. Maintaining a consistent, predetermined schedule each week and potential for working evenings or Saturdays in offices with extended hours.
Conclusion
Now that you know what the orthodontic clinical assistant job description is, it’s a role that requires working closely with a team, being precise, and caring for patients. From the early morning preparations to the meticulous care taken with protective gear and tasks, it’s a role that demands skill and commitment.
Are you curious about a hands-on career in healthcare? Join Illinois Health Careers to begin your journey as a dental assistant. Our programs are tailored for aspiring assistants, offering concise and focused training. Envision yourself in a real clinic, benefiting from small class sizes designed for personalized learning.
Take the first step towards an exciting career in dental assisting. Join Illinois Health Careers, where your passion meets opportunity. Your future in dental health awaits – are you ready to make a difference?
