What does an Orthodontic Assistant do?
An orthodontic assistant works with patients who visit orthodontic offices. Orthodontic assistants help orthodontists diagnose and treat bad bites, dental irregularities or misaligned teeth. Orthodontic assistants daily responsibilities include performing X-rays or taking photographs of teeth, taking measurements and making adjustments to braces and retainers. In addition, orthodontic assistants may also create molds of teeth.
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Working as an Orthodontic Assistant
Some of the primary duties of an orthodontic assistant may include:
- Assist orthodontist by directing patients to exam rooms, sterilizing and cleaning tools.
- Take measurements and X-rays, photographs or other required images of patients' mouth.
- Perform periodic adjustments on braces, retainers, headgear and face masks.
- Use bite impressions of patients' teeth to create a plaster model.
- Take case histories, creating and updating patient charts.
How much does an Orthodontic Assistant make in the United States?
Average base salary
The average salary for a orthodontic assistant is $21.54 per hour in the United States. 9.9k salaries reported, updated at September 29, 2023
Where can an Orthodontic Assistant earn more?
Compare salaries for Orthodontic Assistants in different locations
How much do similar professions get paid in United States?
Dental Assistant
Job openingsAverage $21.62 per hour
Treatment Coordinator
Job openingsAverage $22.81 per hour
Sterilization Technician
Job openingsAverage $19.39 per hour
Dental Receptionist
Job openingsAverage $19.48 per hour
Dental Technician
Job openingsAverage $21.52 per hour
Physician Assistant
Job openingsAverage $121,132 per year
Common questions about for an Orthodontic Assistant
Where do orthodontic assistants work?
Orthodontic assistants may work in any number of settings. The most common setting is an orthodontists' office. Others, however, may work in either public or private hospitals or facilities for the elderly. The armed forces frequently hire orthodontist assistants to work on military bases.
What is the demand for orthodontic assistants?
According to the Study, there is a high demand for orthodontic assistants. It projects number of new jobs for orthodontic assistants over the next coming years which is much faster growth than the combined average of all other occupations.
Is a college degree required to become an orthodontic assistant?
No, there are no national requirements for becoming an orthodontic assistant. Instead, the regulations are determined by the state you live in. Most states do require a Certified Orthodontic Assistant credential to prove competency. To gain this credential, applicants demonstrate they have relevant work experience or that they have completed an orthodontic assistant program. They must also pass a multiple-choice exam.
