What does an orthodontic assistant do?
Orthodontic assistants work in the dentist together with orthodontists and perform any tasks that may be required to help the Orthodontist in his work on the patient. Other orthodontic auxiliary duties may include the patient's preparation for a test or procedure; administration and maintenance of patient records; and preparing tools for orthodontist. Some assistants are also trained to perform certain types of testing, such as using X -rays of patients and administration of local anesthesia.
Generally orthodontic assistant greets patients when they are welcomed to the device, pull out the patient's graphs for the orthodontist to examine, and help the physician to prepare the patient for the procedure. The professional in this position is generally responsible for the patient to feel comfortable and answer his questions and fears. During the procedure, the assistant will normally be on the hand to help the orthodontist with the instruments, to provide the necessary suction, Anic another that the orthodontist can require for the procedure. In the turntableThe slot at the Orthodontic Office and the level of education and training of the assistant may also include work obligations to receive X -ray rays of patients and administration of certain types of anesthetics.
The duties of an orthodontic assistant may also include the preparation of tools for an orthodontist using an autoclave to sterilize them before use. In addition, some orthodontic assistant duties include organization, cleaning and sorting of tools. Some supplies are only one use, such as latex gloves and rubber strips for braces, so the assistant may need to check the device inventory to ensure that they are well supplied and order more if necessary. The assistant also ensures that the environment is clean and disinfected thoroughly before the orthodontist sees patients.
Orthodontic assistant may also be exchanged to maintain patient or record sets and organize them accordingly. Within this work duty, the assistant pulls out records before treatment, reviews the notation that is in the file, and adds any other relevant information that may be required. The assistant may also be required to ensure that all patient records have been categorized in the correct order according to the submission system in its specific device. In some cases, an orthodontic assistant may include invoicing or other insurance -related tasks.
In order to become an orthodontic assistant, one must usually follow a certain level of university education outside the high school diploma or its equivalent. Community universities often offer dental assistance programs that end in certificates, but it is possible to find an orthodontist to provide training in the workplace. In addition, some jurisdictions will require orthodontic assistants to be licensed.