What Is Orthodontic Assisting?

Orthodontic assisting is a support position in the orthodontics field. Assistants perform administrative tasks, provide basic services to patients and assist the orthodontist during procedures. The level of training necessary for this work depends on regional regulations, and some specialists in orthodontic assisting might also pursue professional certification. This certification can increase employability and might allow people to negotiate better wages and benefits, because it is evidence of a commitment to high-quality work.

Administratively, orthodontic assisting can include updating and filing patient charts, assisting with billing and handling scheduling activities. Assistants might perform a variety of tasks around the office and in the stockroom. They might take inventory of supplies, order new materials as necessary and meet with representatives of medical suppliers to discuss products, request samples and negotiate orders. Assistants can also fill patient orders for things such as new rubber bands for braces or fresh packets of dental wax.

This work can also include cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment, setting up rooms for procedures and informing patients about what to expect during procedures. Orthodontic assisting can involve taking X-rays and dental impressions, developing X-rays and performing other basic tasks. This can allow the doctor to focus on direct patient care and can speed the intake and appointment process. The patient can meet with the assistant first while the doctor sees another patient, and by the time the doctor is ready, the patient's X-rays and intake interview will be complete.

During procedures, orthodontic assisting can include setting up not just the room but also the patient. When the doctor enters, the assistant might have already set up bonding materials and other supplies, and the patient could be ready for the procedure. As the doctor works, the assistant can pass tools, adjust lighting, monitor the patient and make sure that the environment stays as sterile as possible. If patients are nervous or worried, the assistant might also engage in activities to make them feel more comfortable, such as adding pillows for padding, turning on a video for distraction or talking about the details of the procedure with the patient.

Wages for orthodontic assisting jobs can vary. People who have more qualifications and experience might make more money, depending on the market in a given region. Being able to relocate can be helpful, because it might be possible to pursue better jobs in another area. Some orthodontic assistants work as traveling care providers and might rotate between several clinics to provide coverage. Others might be under contract with a company that provides traveling medical personnel to cover staffing needs.