Orthodontic Assistants - How to Find a Great Orthodontic Job

Orthodontic assistants work closely with dentists and perform a variety of clinical and clerical duties. Many dental assisting programs include career placement so candidates are ready to find employment upon graduation.

When interviewing, be sure to share the personal story that drew you to orthodontics. It will help you connect with the interviewer and distinguish yourself from other candidates.

Education Requirements

Just like a doctor has nurses, an orthodontist also requires an assistant to perform a number of tasks, including preparing patients for their procedures, taking X-rays, cleaning and tightening braces, addressing dental molds, educating patients about oral hygiene and how to care for orthodontic devices and completing office administrative duties. In addition to these essential job skills, an orthodontic assistant must be comfortable communicating with patients and other dental professionals in a professional manner.

To pursue a career as an orthodontic assistant, one should enroll in a dental assisting program after obtaining a high school diploma or GED certificate. The program typically covers all the necessary dental assisting skills through classroom coursework and hands-on clinical training in a dental clinic. If a student is not qualified for enough scholarships or grants to cover the cost of the program, they can also consider applying for a student loan. In some cases, employers might reimburse their new dental assistants for the expense of their educational programs.

Experience Requirements

A candidate with extensive hands-on experience in an orthodontist’s office can make a strong impression and quickly ramp up to the demands of the job. It’s also easier to onboard an experienced assistant than a new hire.

A resume should include a list of professional accomplishments that demonstrate an orthodontic assistant’s ability to work well with patients, handle multiple tasks at once, and meet deadlines. Prioritize the information in your application and highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Orthodontic assistants are required to follow HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) standards for patient confidentiality. This means that they need to be familiar with and proficient in sterilization techniques, OSHA regulations, lab procedures and tasks, as well as secretarial work. In addition to these technical skills, an orthodontist assistant needs interpersonal communication skills to help put patients at ease and educate them on the treatment they’re receiving. The best candidates will have a strong eye for detail and are organized when it comes to managing patient records, appointments, and other duties.

Skills Requirements

Orthodontic assistants must have a variety of hard skills to perform their job. These include familiarity with HIPAA and OSHA, as well as dental assisting procedures and instruments. They must also have excellent customer service and communication skills to interact with patients.

Other important skills include sterilization and infection control, as well as preparing treatment rooms and maintaining patient records. They must also be able to educate patients on oral hygiene and care for orthodontic appliances.

To make your resume stand out from other candidates, focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. Highlight any specialized training or certifications that you have in your career summary, and use action verbs throughout your resume to showcase your experience. This helps to keep your resume easy to read and catches the attention of hiring managers. You can also use the reverse chronological format to present your work history in an organized way.

Job Outlook

Orthodontic assistants are part of the Dental Assistant profession, a career that sees its greatest growth in the healthcare industry. Most Dental Assistants have previous experience in a dental clinic and go through a program lasting between 12-18 months where they learn medical terms, and the different specialties within Dentistry.

They are also trained to sterilize tools and equipment, ensuring a clean working environment for patients and other staff. Besides, they are expected to keep records and notice patient progress in their orthodontic treatments.

It is a rewarding job since straightening teeth goes beyond improving appearance, it can also help patients chew better, speak clearly, and maintain good oral health. In most cases, it takes several years for the patient to get results, but this is something that most Dental Assistants are proud to be a part of. The work requires critical thinking and the ability to handle stress under demanding, high-pressure conditions. The work environment is energetic and busy, but people who enjoy assisting people are likely to thrive in this type of workplace.

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