INTRODUCTION
Orthodontic dental assistants provide chairside assistance to orthodontists and ensure that patients are well-informed about orthodontic procedures and braces aftercare. They prepare appointment rooms, sterilize orthodontic tools, and adjust patients’ braces as directed by the resident orthodontist. This position requires strong communication skills, excellent time management skills, the ability to think on your feet and anticipate the needs of the doctor, as well as manage your patients effectively. It is imperative to be a team player and always fully participate in the smooth and efficient running of the practice.
KEY OBJECTIVES
The duties of an orthodontic assistant are among the most comprehensive and varied in the dental office. The dental assistant performs many tasks requiring both interpersonal and technical skills. Although state regulations vary, responsibilities may include:
Assist the dentist/orthodontist during a variety of treatment procedures.
Take and develop dental radiographs (x-rays).
Ask about the patient's medical history, take blood pressure and pulse.
Sterilize instruments and equipment as needed.
Help patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment and procedures.
Provide patients with instructions for oral care following surgery or other dental treatment procedures, such as the placement of a restoration.
Teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).
TECHNICAL SKILLS
UNDER DIRECT SUPERVISION OF ORTHODONTIST: must be competent in all of the following:
Chart existing restorations, clinically missing teeth, and appliances within the oral cavity
Remove sutures
Place and remove orthodontic ligatures
Expose radiographs
Place and remove rubber dam
Assist in basic supportive chairside procedures
Place and remove periodontal packs
Take and record vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respiration, etc.)
Place and remove matrix
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
Maintain strict HIPAA and OSHA standards.
Strong work ethic.
Team player.
Sense of humor.
Excellent organization skills:
accurate patient records through proper charting
ensure patient rooms are ready for patients and doctor
Ensure dental tools and instruments are properly sterilized and put away
Able to multitask, maintaining proper patient flow and not falling behind the schedule.
Able to follow simple and complex instructions.
Good dexterity skills.
Professional demeanor:
Coming to work on time and ready to work
Dress appropriately
Take work seriously
Have a good attitude
Exercise tact and diplomacy in all situations.
Exceptional communication skills:
Able to communicate effectively in-person and over the phone.
Explain complex subjects in a simple manner
Able to initiate appropriate small talk with patients.
Great listening abilities.
Describe dental care instructions so that patients understand.
Outline patient status, room availability and changes to the schedule effectively to other
team members.
Compassionate attitude, able to connect with patients.
Resilience and ability to take tough days in stride.
Proficient in dental software.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Must have completed one of the following and have documentation to support experience:
Diploma from a CODA-Accredited dental assisting program.
DANB CDA certification or DANB RHS certificate of competency.
Minimum of two years full-time employment as a chairside dentist.
Former active-duty military dental assistant.
RADIOGRAPHY REQUIREMENTS: Must have completed one of the following and have documentation to support experience:
Diploma from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program.
DANB CDA certification or DANB RHS certificate of competency.
Certificate in radiation safety from the South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA).
Certificate documenting completion of a structured course of training in radiation safety. Accepted courses include, but are not limited to, radiation safety training through a technical school.
ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS: Must have the first two certifications, additional certifications preferred.
1. Infection Control & Sterilization training current. Must show supporting documentation.
2. BLS certification by SCDA approved training course. Must show supporting documentation.
