FAQ
How is Orthodontic Assisting different from Dental Assisting?
Since orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry, the tasks an assistant performs are more specialized. In most states, assistants in an orthodontic practice are delegated a large percentage of tasks allowing for more one-on-one interaction with patients. A prior background in other areas of dentistry will be very helpful, although not required, in learning the skills of orthodontic assisting.
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What are the tasks of an orthodontic assistant?
An assistant's main duty is to help the orthodontic specialist by performing much of the “hands-on” work needed to adjust braces. In addition, they take x-rays, make impressions of teeth, take high quality photographs of patient faces and teeth and interact with patients and their families. There are many other duties that vary from office to office. For more detail on what you will learn in this course, please visit our Course Outline section.
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What if I already work for an orthodontist?
In the case of an applicant who already works for an orthodontist, the AOA will accept a letter of recommendation from the employer in lieu of the credentials listed above. Our application page contains more details.
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Do students receive Continuing Education (CE) credits?
Yes - participants in our course will receive CE credit approved by the Dental Assisting National Board and some state dental boards and organizations.
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Is there any other training available for orthodontic assistants?
Traditionally, orthodontic assistants have been trained “on the job”. This is both expensive and time consuming for the doctor and frustrating for the assistant. We feel that this type of training can not adequately give you the background knowledge necessary to understand what you are doing in people’s mouths. We are not aware of any other program that delivers the caliber of “hands on” training in an educational setting as the AOA.
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Where do assistants come from?
It is amazing to us the varied sources from which we obtain students. Many of our students are primary care givers returning to the work force, while others are looking for a change in career. Some students are recent high school graduates while others have completed graduate school! The majority of our students are female as it is primarily a female profession. It is a great way to “get your foot in the door” of orthodontics or dentistry. Some graduates have gone on to dental hygiene school while others work in or even start their own orthodontic labs. Regardless of the source for our students, we are looking for high caliber people who will represent us and our profession well in the future.
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Do you have job placement?
Students are also able to post their resumes on our website for doctors to review when they have need for a new assistant.
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Is it hard to get a job after going through school?
Although we can not guarantee you a job after graduating, the market for orthodontic assistants is a very active one. Your chances of getting a job are much better with the training you receive in the course. Just like any other schooling, you should be able to receive a higher wage after successfully completing the course.
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How high is the demand for orthodontic assistants?
In speaking with doctors around the country, and in fact the world, we have found that the need for assistants is very high. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists has identified the need for more quality trained staff as one of the specialty’s biggest challenges. This is partly because prior to the Academy of Orthodontic Assisting, there was no formal training of this caliber available anywhere!
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How many staff members can take the course under a subscription account?
The subscription price is for a one or two doctor practice with 12 or less employees. We have incremental additional fees for practices with more staff members. Please contact us with inquiries about your particular situation.
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