Orthodontic Dental Assistant

Orthodontic Assistant – Dental

Job Summary

The Orthodontic Assistant plays an essential role in supporting the orthodontist and clinical team in delivering exceptional, patient-centered orthodontic care. Under the direction of the orthodontist and Operations Leader, the Orthodontic Assistant helps create a positive, comfortable, and efficient experience for every patient while supporting the clinical and operational success of the practice.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, energetic, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced orthodontic environment. The Orthodontic Assistant builds trust with patients and families while providing care within the scope of their training, licensure, and applicable state regulations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Working under the direction of the orthodontist and Operations Leader, the Orthodontic Assistant's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Prepare, set up, and break down treatment rooms and orthodontic operatories to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
• Prepare patients for orthodontic examinations, procedures, and adjustments while helping them feel comfortable and informed.
• Assist the orthodontist chairside during orthodontic procedures and treatments.
• Take quality diagnostic records, including dental radiographs, panoramic X-rays, digital photographs, intraoral scans, and 3D imaging as prescribed by the orthodontist and permitted by applicable regulations.
• Assist with orthodontic procedures such as bracket placement and removal, archwire changes, appliance delivery, impressions/scans, and other clinical procedures as directed and within applicable scope of practice.
• Prepare orthodontic materials, instruments, and trays for patient treatment.
• Sterilize and maintain instruments, equipment, and treatment areas in accordance with OSHA, infection-control, and practice standards.
• Provide patients and parents/guardians with appropriate post-treatment and home-care instructions as directed by the orthodontist.
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene and orthodontic care, including brushing, flossing, appliance care, and dietary recommendations when appropriate.
• Monitor and maintain orthodontic lab cases and appliances, ensuring cases are properly tracked and prepared for scheduled appointments.
• Keep equipment maintenance and sterilization logs current.
• Review and prepare patient charts and clinical records in advance to promote patient safety, office efficiency, and an exceptional patient experience.
• Accurately enter relevant clinical and patient information into the practice management system under the direction of the orthodontist.
• Help patients and families understand their orthodontic care and confidently navigate their treatment experience.
• Maintain a positive, "yes mentality" when supporting patients, families, and team members.
• Create a positive first impression with patients and families both in person and by phone.
• Deliver exceptional customer service with the patient experience as the top priority.
• Partner with the orthodontist, Operations Leader, treatment coordinators, scheduling team, and other clinical staff to address patient questions, concerns, and needs in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain a professional, positive, and collaborative relationship with all members of the orthodontic team.
• Champion the Marquee Dental Partners Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Ensure every patient receives an extraordinary experience at a Marquee office.
• Maintain accountability for assigned responsibilities, projects, clinical duties, and company deliverables.
• Complete required continuing education and training to maintain clinical knowledge and applicable certifications.
• Follow all required HIPAA, OSHA, infection-control, and patient-safety procedures.
• Strictly protect Patient Health Information (PHI) and confidential patient, personal, and financial information.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited dental assisting/orthodontic assisting program preferred, where applicable.
• Dental assisting license, registration, permit, or other required credential as defined by applicable state, county, or local regulations.
• Current radiography/X-ray certification as required by applicable state, county, or local regulations.
• Previous dental or orthodontic assisting experience preferred.

Certifications & Licensure

• Current state/county/local Dental Assisting license, registration, or certification as required.
• Current X-ray/radiography certification or license as required.
• Additional orthodontic or dental certifications as required by applicable regulations.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Competitive, energetic, and results-driven.
• Compassionate and patient-focused with a genuine desire to help others.
• Self-starter who can work independently while functioning effectively as part of a team.
• Organized, dependable, and safety-conscious.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Customer-service focused with the ability to build rapport with children, teens, adults, and parents/guardians.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced orthodontic environment.
• Tech-savvy and proficient with computers and digital dental/orthodontic technology.
• Able to learn and adapt to new technology, systems, and clinical techniques.
• Committed to continuing education and professional development.
• Receptive to respectful, constructive feedback and coaching.
• Able to prioritize responsibilities and complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Maintains a positive, team-oriented attitude and contributes to a welcoming office culture.