Orthodontic Assistant Jobs

Orthodontic assistants need a specialized skill set that blends clinical precision with interpersonal care. These abilities ensure smooth procedures, patient comfort, and team efficiency in a high-volume orthodontic environment. Core Skills for Orthodontic Assistants include:

• Communication: Clearly explain orthodontic procedures, appliance care, and timelines to patients.
  
• Dexterity: Perform detailed tasks like bracket placement prep and wire adjustments with precision.
  
• Detail: Ensure accuracy in charting, sterilization, and appliance handling.
  
• Time: Balance multiple chairside responsibilities and appointments seamlessly.
  
• Technology: Use tools like iTero scanners, imaging software, and patient management systems.
  
• Team: Work fluidly with orthodontists, hygienists, and front office staff.
  
• Compassion: Provide support and reassurance to patients, especially children and first-timers.

To become an orthodontic assistant, you can follow several educational paths depending on your background, state regulations, and employer requirements. While formal certification isn't always required, obtaining recognized credentials can enhance your qualifications, expand career opportunities, and boost earning potential. Many orthodontic assistants begin as dental assistants and build specialized skills through on-the-job experience or targeted training.

The Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is a leading certification for those pursuing a focused career in orthodontics.

Certification Pathways for Orthodontic Assistants:

• Complete a dental assisting program and gain hands-on orthodontic experience.
  
• Take the COA exam through DANB after meeting experience or education requirements.
  
• Pursue entry-level roles while working toward certification through continuing education.
  
• Use resources from DANB and the DALE Foundation for test prep and study support.
  
  Requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check local licensing guidelines and employer preferences.

Training to become an orthodontic assistant involves a mix of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience. Many start with a dental assisting program and gain additional orthodontic expertise through on-the-job training or specialized certifications. These programs provide the technical foundation and practical exposure needed to assist confidently in an orthodontic setting. Clinical hours are essential for developing the precision, speed, and communication skills required in high-volume practices. What Orthodontic Assistant Training Typically Includes:

• Orthodontic Anatomy & Terminology: Understanding malocclusions, tooth movement, and appliance.
  
• Radiography & Digital Imaging: Safely taking and processing X-rays and digital scans (e.g., iTero).
  
• Infection Control & Sterilization: Maintaining a safe, sterile environment in line with OSHA standards.
  
• Chairside Assisting: Supporting bracket placement, wire adjustments, and appliance fittings.
  
• Orthodontic Materials: Working with bands, brackets, elastics, expanders, and impression trays.
  
• Practice Workflow & Software: Learning appointment scheduling, EHR systems, and treatment charting.

Orthodontic assistant salaries vary depending on experience, certifications, and practice setting. In the Tri-State area, entry-level orthodontic assistants typically earn between $40,000 and $50,000 per year. With certifications such as the COA (Certified Orthodontic Assistant) and a few years of experience, earnings can reach $55,000–$65,000, particularly in high-volume orthodontic practices or specialty offices.