Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire Career Overview
As an Orthodontic Assistant, you play a vital role in the dental healthcare team, specifically in orthodontics. Your contributions help ensure that patients receive quality care throughout their treatment journey. Here are some key aspects of the job role:
Patient Interaction: You interact directly with patients, providing them with information about their treatment plans and what to expect during their appointments. Your ability to create a comfortable and reassuring environment significantly impacts patient experiences.
Clinical Responsibilities: In this role, you assist orthodontists during various procedures, from fitting braces to conducting adjustments. Your attention to detail helps maintain high standards of care and supports efficient workflow within the practice.
Patient Education: Educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of following treatment guidelines is essential. You help them understand how to care for their braces and retainers, promoting successful treatment outcomes.
Administrative Support: Besides clinical duties, you also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and processing insurance paperwork. This ensures the smooth operation of the orthodontic office.
Collaboration: You work closely with orthodontists and other dental professionals, contributing to a team-focused environment. Effective communication and cooperation with colleagues are fundamental to delivering optimal patient care.
The role of an Orthodontic Assistant is significant in enhancing the quality of orthodontic services and ensuring patient satisfaction, making your position essential within the dental healthcare framework.
Orthodontic Assistant Salary in New Hampshire
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire
To become an Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire, you will need to meet specific educational qualifications and training requirements. Below are the programs that can prepare you for this career:
Dental Assisting and Technology
- Completing a diploma or associate degree in Dental Assisting and Technology equips you with foundational knowledge and practical skills required in orthodontic practices.
Dental Services and Allied Professions
- An associate degree or certificate in Dental Services and Allied Professions provides training that focuses on various specialties, including orthodontics, enabling a broader understanding of dental care and patient management.
Dentistry
- While a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree is primarily designed for dentists, pursuing coursework or specific electives related to orthodontics can benefit your understanding of the field, should you wish to support orthodontic procedures.
Orthodontics
- Although Orthodontics primarily refers to the specialty training for dentists, enrolling in relevant courses during your dental education can create a tailored educational path for aspiring orthodontic assistants.
Dental Hygiene
- An associate degree in Dental Hygiene helps develop the skills needed for patient care and dental practices, which are relevant to orthodontic assisting, particularly in patient education and routine oral hygiene procedures.
In New Hampshire, it is common for employers to prefer or require certification from an accredited program and, in some cases, additional certifications such as the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) designation. Always verify the specific requirements of the practices you wish to work for, as they can vary.
Best Schools to become a Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire 2024
New York University
Tufts University
United Education Institute-Morrow
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UEI College-Phoenix
University of Southern California
- Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist.
- Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures.
- May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.
Orthodontic Assistant Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire
Interpersonal Skills: Build rapport with patients, ensuring they feel comfortable throughout their treatment. Effective communication with both patients and dental professionals is essential.
Attention to Detail: Accurately follow treatment plans and instructions given by the orthodontist. This includes understanding and managing patient records, treatment progress, and necessary adjustments.
Technical Skills: Proficient in the use of dental software and equipment. You should be familiar with various orthodontic tools and technologies used during procedures.
Patient Management: Capable of guiding patients through their treatment process, including explaining procedures, addressing concerns, and ensuring they adhere to care instructions.
Clinical Skills: Assist in various procedures such as taking impressions, placing braces, adjusting appliances, and performing routine maintenance tasks in the orthodontic office.
Time Management: Effectively manage your time to maintain an efficient workflow. You should be able to prioritize tasks to keep appointments on schedule while providing quality care.
Problem-Solving Skills: Identify and resolve any issues that arise during treatment. This includes understanding how to handle discrepancies in patient care or equipment malfunctions.
Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust to new technologies, procedures, and protocols within the orthodontic field as they evolve.
Sterilization and Infection Control: Understand proper sterilization techniques and maintain a clean and safe environment to prevent contamination and infections.
Teamwork: Work collaboratively with orthodontists and other dental staff to support patient care. Foster a positive team environment to improve the overall functioning of the practice.
Job Duties for Orthodontic Assistants
Assist dentist in management of medical or dental emergencies.
Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures.
Record treatment information in patient records.
Electronic mail software
- Email software
Medical software
- Henry Schein Dentrix
- The Systems Workplace TDOCS
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire
The demand for orthodontic assistants in New Hampshire is experiencing growth due to several factors impacting the healthcare and dental sectors. Understanding the current job market can help you navigate potential opportunities effectively.
High Demand: The increasing awareness of oral health and the aesthetic benefits of orthodontic treatment are driving more individuals to seek braces and aligners. This has resulted in a steady demand for orthodontic services, subsequently increasing the need for skilled orthodontic assistants.
Growth Potential: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for dental assistants, including orthodontic assistants, is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth can be attributed to an aging population requiring more dental care and advancements in orthodontic technology that facilitate more efficient patient treatments.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Southern New Hampshire: Areas like Nashua and Manchester demonstrate a concentration of dental practices and orthodontic clinics, providing numerous job opportunities.
- Seacoast Region: Coastal cities such as Portsmouth and Dover offer a growing market for orthodontic services, thanks to a rising population and economic development.
- Concord: The state capital has a number of healthcare facilities, including orthodontic practices, contributing to job availability in the region.
Local Trends: As practices increasingly adopt technology such as digital impressions and 3D imaging, the role of the orthodontic assistant is evolving, leading to new opportunities for specialization and advancement in the field.
By keeping an eye on these developments in the job market, you can better position yourself for a successful career as an orthodontic assistant in New Hampshire.
Top Related Careers to Orthodontic Assistant 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire
American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
- Website: www.aaoinfo.org
- The AAO provides a wealth of information on orthodontics, including resources for orthodontic assistants. Their website offers educational materials, industry news, and access to continuing education opportunities.
National Association of orthodontic Assistants (NAO)
- Website: www.nao.org
- The NAO focuses on the professional development of orthodontic assistants. It provides certification options, workshops, and networking opportunities for those in the field.
Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
- Website: www.danb.org
- The DANB offers certification for dental assistants, including those specializing in orthodontics. Their site provides study materials, exam information, and educational resources relevant to the profession.
New Hampshire Dental Society
- Website: www.nhds.org
- The New Hampshire Dental Society serves dental professionals in the state and offers resources such as educational events, networking opportunities, and state-specific regulations that may affect orthodontic assistants.
American Dental Association (ADA)
- Website: www.ada.org
- The ADA provides a broad spectrum of resources for all dental professionals. Their site includes guidelines on best practices, patient resources, and continuing education for orthodontic assistants.
Dental Assistant Academy of New Hampshire
- Website: www.dentalassistantacademy.com
- This local academy offers training programs, workshops, and resources geared toward aspiring dental and orthodontic assistants. Their curriculum may provide insights into career advancement within orthodontics.
Ortho2
- Website: www.ortho2.com
- Ortho2 specializes in practice management software for orthodontic practices, and their website includes useful articles, webinars, and tools specifically for orthodontic assistants to improve efficiency in their roles.
SmileTrain
- Website: www.smiletrain.org
- For those interested in combining their orthodontic skills with community service, SmileTrain focuses on providing free cleft repair surgery and educational resources to communities around the globe.
Books and Publications
- Orthodontic Assistant Workbook by John A. Cramer
- This workbook provides practical exercises and review questions related to the roles and responsibilities of an orthodontic assistant, offering a solid foundation for those seeking to enhance their skills.
- Orthodontic Assistant Workbook by John A. Cramer
Continuing Education Platforms
Utilizing these resources will support your growth and understanding of the orthodontic assistant profession, and keep you informed about industry standards and continuing education opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Orthodontic Assistant in New Hampshire
What are the primary responsibilities of an orthodontic assistant?
As an orthodontic assistant, your main responsibilities include preparing patients for treatments, assisting orthodontists during procedures, taking patient records, sterilizing instruments, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. You may also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and the use of orthodontic appliances.What qualifications do I need to become an orthodontic assistant in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal training is not always required, completing a dental assisting program or obtaining certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) can enhance your job prospects.Is certification necessary to work as an orthodontic assistant?
While certification is not mandatory in New Hampshire, obtaining the Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) credential can improve your employment opportunities and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.What skills are important for an orthodontic assistant?
Key skills you should develop include strong communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, the ability to multi-task, and proficiency in using dental equipment. Being empathetic and patient with clients, especially children, is also important.What is the typical work environment for an orthodontic assistant?
You will primarily work in orthodontic offices or dental clinics. This environment may involve standing for extended periods, moving between treatment rooms, and interacting with patients and staff.What is the job outlook for orthodontic assistants in New Hampshire?
The demand for dental assistants, including orthodontic assistants, is expected to grow in the coming years due to an increased focus on oral health and advancements in dental technology.How much can I expect to earn as an orthodontic assistant?
In New Hampshire, the average salary for orthodontic assistants typically ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of practice.What opportunities for advancement exist in this career?
With experience, you may advance to positions such as lead orthodontic assistant, office manager, or pursue dental hygiene or dental therapy to further expand your career options.Do I need to keep my skills current?
Yes, continuing education is important in the dental field. Staying updated on new technologies, techniques, and safety protocols through workshops, courses, or webinars is beneficial for your career.What is the typical schedule for an orthodontic assistant?
Most orthodontic assistants work full-time, but part-time positions are also available. Work hours may include evenings or weekends, depending on the practice’s hours and patient scheduling.