The Orthodontic Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the orthodontist and clinical team to ensure efficient, safe, and comfortable patient care. This position involves assisting with orthodontic procedures, managing instruments and equipment, maintaining a clean and organized treatment environment, and delivering exceptional patient service.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Assist the orthodontist during treatments, including placing and removing braces, taking impressions, adjusting wires, and applying/removing elastics and other orthodontic appliances
- Ensure patient comfort and respond to patient needs throughout procedures
- Prepare patients for orthodontic treatments, explaining procedures and addressing questions or concerns
- Ensure patients are properly positioned, and instruments and materials are readily available to support efficient treatment
- Sterilize and prepare instruments, equipment, and materials in compliance with infection control protocols
- Maintain clean, organized, and well-stocked clinical areas and treatment rooms
- Take diagnostic X-rays, panoramic images, or digital scans as required for treatment planning
- Update and maintain accurate patient records, treatment progress notes, and X-ray results in the practice management system (EHR/PMS)
- Assist with the fitting, adjustment, and removal of orthodontic appliances such as retainers, expanders, and braces
- Provide post-treatment instructions, including retainer care and the importance of follow-up visits
- Educate patients on the proper care of braces, wires, and orthodontic appliances to ensure optimal results
- Monitor inventory of orthodontic supplies and materials, reordering as needed to maintain adequate stock
- Support a positive and professional patient experience
Requirements
Qualifications & Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; completion of an accredited orthodontic assisting program preferred
- Minimum 1–2 years of experience as an orthodontic assistant or dental assistant, preferably with orthodontic focus
- Knowledge of orthodontic procedures, appliances, and terminology
- Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and the orthodontic team
- Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations
- Team members are expected to uphold the culture outlined in the SDB Handbook, with a focus on our core values and any additional responsibilities as defined