Job Description
Job Description
Description : Position Title
Dental Assistant / Orthodontic Assistant
Location
Red Rock Orthodontics, Oklahoma City, OK
Reports To
Lead Orthodontist / Office Manager / Clinical Director
Position Summary
The Dental Assistant / Orthodontic Assistant will support the orthodontic team by providing clinical and administrative assistance to deliver high-quality patient care. The role involves chairside support during orthodontic procedures, preparation and sterilization of instruments, patient communication and education, and general office support to ensure smooth workflow and patient satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities / DutiesClinical / Chairside Support
- Assist the orthodontist during all phases of treatment (e.g. placing brackets and bands, tying wires, removing appliances)
- Prepare teeth for bracket placement (etching, bonding, cleaning)
- Secure and adjust orthodontic wires, springs, ligatures, elastics, and other components
- Assist with taking impressions, digital scans, and intraoral photographs
- Take and process X-rays or cephalometric / panoramic images (if allowed by state law)
- Remove excess cement from appliances, polish and clean teeth as needed
- Maintain a sterile environment : sterilize instruments, set up trays, handle infection control procedures
- Manage instrument inventory, check supplies, reorder as necessary
Patient Interaction & Education
Greet and prepare patients for treatment; explain what to expect during proceduresProvide oral hygiene and appliance care instructions (brushing, flossing with braces, retainer care, etc.)Answer patient questions, address concerns, and help ensure comfort during treatmentsMonitor patient progress, document observations, and assist in treatment planning discussionsAdministrative & Office Support
Update patient charts, treatment records, and tracking logsSchedule patient appointments and manage the flow of daily treatment sessionsOrder supplies and manage inventory for clinical operationsAssist in billing, coding, and insurance documentation as needed (in coordination with front office)Ensure the treatment rooms and common areas are clean, stocked, and ready for patient careQualifications & Skills
Education / Certification
High school diploma or equivalentCompletion of a dental assisting program or orthodontic-specific training preferredCertification / registration as a dental assistant or orthodontic assistant (varies by state)CPR / BLS certificationExperience
1+ year experience in orthodontic assisting or general dentistry preferredExperience working with orthodontic appliances (braces, retainers, aligners)Technical Skills & Knowledge
Proficiency in orthodontic procedures and their protocolsComfortable with digital imaging, X-rays, impressions, and intraoral camerasKnowledge of infection control, sterilization, OSHA / CDC regulationsFamiliarity with dental / orthodontic practice management softwareStrong computer and organizational skillsPersonal Qualities & Soft Skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication abilitiesEmpathy and patience, especially when working with children or anxious patientsAttention to detail and accuracyAbility to multitask and work efficiently under pressureStrong team player but also able to work independentlyGood manual dexterityRequirements :