What Does an Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator Do?

What Does an Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator Do?

When you think of orthodontics, you probably picture braces, clear aligners, and visits to the orthodontist’s chair. But behind the scenes, there’s a key person helping make the entire experience smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable: the Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator.

So, what exactly does a treatment coordinator do—and why are they such an important part of your orthodontic journey?

The Bridge Between Patients and the Practice

An orthodontic treatment coordinator (often called a TC) is your personal guide from the moment you walk into the practice for a consultation. Their main job is to be the liaison between the orthodontist and the patient, helping to explain treatment options, answer questions, and coordinate all the details involved in starting care.

Think of them as part educator, part patient advocate, and part scheduling guru.

So, what do they do? 

Key Responsibilities of a Treatment Coordinator

Here are some of the core duties a treatment coordinator handles:

1. Welcoming New Patients

The TC is often the first person a new patient meets after the front desk. They’ll walk you through what to expect during the initial visit and introduce you to the practice. First impressions matter—and treatment coordinators make sure yours is a good one.

2. Explaining Treatment Plans

Once the orthodontist has completed the exam and recommended a treatment plan (like braces or clear aligners), the TC steps in to explain everything in plain English. They’ll go over:

  • What the treatment involves

  • Estimated length of treatment

  • What the patient can expect throughout the process

  • What results to look forward to

They’re great at making complex information easy to understand.

3. Discussing Financial Options

One of the most valuable things a TC does is help families understand the cost of treatment and explore payment options. This includes:

  • Going over insurance benefits

  • Explaining payment plans

  • Answering questions about costs and financing

This ensures patients can make informed decisions that fit their budget.

4. Scheduling and Coordination

From setting up the next appointments to making sure everything runs on schedule, the TC helps coordinate care across the team. They’re masters at logistics and time management.

5. Providing Ongoing Support

Even after treatment starts, the TC remains a resource for patients. They check in, answer questions, and make sure the patient experience continues to be smooth and stress-free.

Why They Matter

A great treatment coordinator can make a world of difference in your orthodontic experience. They help reduce anxiety, make the process feel personalized, and ensure you never feel lost in the shuffle. For orthodontic practices, a skilled TC also plays a key role in building trust and boosting treatment acceptance rates.

In Short…

An orthodontic treatment coordinator wears many hats—but their ultimate goal is simple: to help patients feel confident and comfortable every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring treatment for yourself or your child, the TC is your go-to guide through the process.