FAQs
- How is Orthodontic Assisting different from Dental Assisting?
- Do I need to be a Dental Assistant before becoming an Orthodontic Assisting?
- How do I know what my state requires for orthodontic assistant training and certification?
- What are the tasks of an orthodontic assistant?
- Do students receive Continuing Education (CE) credits?
- Do you have job placement?
- Is it hard to get a job after going through school?
- How many staff members can take the course under an office subscription account?
- Why should an orthodontist utilize the Academy in his/her practice?
- Is implementing the Academy into my busy practice going to be time-consuming?
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.
Do I need to be a Dental Assistant before becoming an Orthodontic Assisting?
To enroll in the Academy you do not need to be a dental assistant. However, you may live in a state where it is required that you receive formal training as a dental assistant before specializing in orthodontics.
How do I know what my state requires for orthodontic assistant training and certification?
Nationwide there are many variations in state rules and requirements. It is in your best interest to do some research when beginning your career as an assistant. You may contact your state Dental Board or Orthodontic Society. You may also want to contact a few orthodontic offices in your area and ask what is required of their team. Another excellent resource for learning about rules and regulations in your area is the Dental Assisting National Board Website which can be found at www.danb.org.
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.
Do students receive Continuing Education (CE) credits?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the course will earn 2.15 CE credits for each lesson or 30 for completion of the entire online program. An additional 12 CE credits are earned for participation in a Clinical Efficiency Retreat. The Academy of Orthodontic Assisting is an ADA CERP recognized provider and recognized by the Dental Assisting National Board as a CE provider. Additionally, the Academy is an authorized CE provider in many states. Contact the home office at 1-877-976-4536 or by email at info@trapezio.com to learn more.
Students are able to post their resumes on our website for doctors to review when they have a need for a new assistant.
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.
How many staff members can take the course under an office subscription account?
The annual subscription includes accounts for up to 12 employees. Additional user accounts are available for purchase at a low annual fee. Contact the Academy to learn more about implementing this program into your busy practice.
Why should an orthodontist utilize the Academy in his/her practice?
Because the Academy was written by a practicing orthodontist, it educates assistants on the science of orthodontics in addition to techniques. It also teaches team members correct and scientific terminology, leading to improved inter-office communication. Additionally, the knowledge and credentials that team members earn from completion of the Academy course will lead to increased confidence and will ultimately improve the patient-care that you provide.
Is implementing the Academy into my busy practice going to be time-consuming?
No. The course was designed with the objective of being an asset to a busy practice, not a burden. You are able to access the program the same day as registration. Once logged into the system, the doctor or a designated course administrator will set-up user accounts for each staff member who will be accessing the program. This takes less than a minute per team member. Assistants may go through the program on their own time, during designated office time, or on training days as a group. There is no longer a need to sacrifice the doctor or senior staff member’s time when integrating new team members into the practice.