Orthodontist Assistant
Now is a great time for you to start an exciting new career as an orthodontist assistant. Orthodontist assistants are highly specialized dental aides who assist patients receiving or wearing corrective dental gear. They provide a variety of services including taking x-rays and photos of the mouth, adjusting braces, and taking impressions of teeth. To join this great field, you will need to complete a dental assisting program and possibly become licensed, depending on the requirements of your state. Why not go back to college today and get started on your career training for this wonderful job?
Education and training for an orthodontist assistant
In order to work as an orthodontist assistant, you should get your formal training in dental assisting through a community college or vocational school. You can opt to participate in varying levels of training. At the certificate level, you will spend approximately one year in training and will learn what you need for entry-level assisting positions. This training typically focuses on the technical aspects of the job, including chair-side assisting, dental materials, and dental radiography.
You may also choose to pursue an orthodontist assistant associate’s degree. This type of program takes around two years to complete and include general education, clinical experience, and technical training. Coursework includes dental science, advanced radiography, infection control, dental emergencies, clinical practice procedures, and preventative dentistry. They also often require completion of internships or externships in dental clinics.
Licensure and certification
Many states require orthodontic assistants to become licensed before they are allowed to perform some functions like taking x-rays. The requirements can vary greatly from one state to the next so check for the regulations of your particular state. Once licensed, assistants are required to earn regular continuing education credits to maintain their licensure. This ensures that the assistants stay knowledgeable about current dental practices. You can get licensure information through the Dental Assistant National Board, which provides state-specific licensing information
The Dental Assistant National Board also offers a voluntary certification program to candidates with at least 3500 hours of relevant work experience or who have completed an accredited dental assisting program. The certification consists of two exams in orthodontic assisting and infection control. Certification can be renewed through 12 hours of continuing education credits, staying CPR certified, and paying a renewal fee each year. Although this certification is not a requirement, it can greatly enhance your professional reputation and credentials and can also make you more attractive to potential employers.
By making the decision and taking the necessary steps to become an orthodontist assistant, you are taking a huge step to improve the quality of your life. You can work as a vital part of a dental care tea and earn a great salary that averages around $40,000 a year, plus employment benefits. It is a great move to make for yourself, your future, and your family. Imagine finally going to work everyday in a job you love and knowing that you are earning enough money to not only make ends meet, but also to have some of the extras that have been out of reach. Sign up for classes to change your future!
