Is getting and orthodontic assistant job impossible with no clinical experience? i have completed the dental assistant program at boces. after completing the program i have searched for (any) dental assistant job not just ortho. it has been almost a year

In : In all honesty, it is not. Most orthodontic offices that I am aware of almost would prefer no prior clinical experience so that you may be trained appropriately for the culture and methodologies used in their office, as techniques vary from practitioner to practitioner. I cannot speak for general dentistry. If you are looking for clinical experience, you may just ask if you can shadow in the in office for a few days. I often see students from local programs observing in offices just to get exposure to the profession. If they see you are motivated, interested, and can pick things up quickly it may lead to a hire or at least a recommendation to another office who is hiring. Also, revisit your resume and presentation style for when you respond/apply to openings to make sure it is reflecting your best attributes! have several friends or family critique and offer suggestions for refinement. Good luck!

These : These are difficult times to be trying to get a job. The american dental association reports that dental offices are still reporting a decline in patients scheduling exams and treatment due to the economic climate. I am sorry you are having such a hard time finding a positon, but i think your willingness to take an unpaid internship will work for you in the long run. Dentists are reluctant to increase overhead by adding additional personnel when there a lack of patients, but I am sure you can find one that is willing to accept you in an unpaid position. This give the dentist and opportunity to get to know you and may lead to a job offer down the line. Failing that you will at least improved your job experience making you more attractive down the line. Good luck.

Most : Most dentists i know are struggling to keep the staff that they already have. However, when I am looking for a new employee i would prefer to train them from scratch rather than re-train them from another system. My advice to you is to find a large office with many staff members wher their will be a better chance that someone will be moving or needs time off for health or family matters. Ask for a internship to do sterilization or clean up. When a paid position comes up, you will be right there.

No: Keep trying. Most offices are looking for that bubbly personality. Training is quite easy once in an office.

Far from it: We have hired people with no experience and trained them to be outstanding assistants!

Ortho Assistant: Orthodontics is a specialty, and has its own "set of skills" that most orthodontists require as part of training. If you are interested in being an ortho assistant, you may want to ask an orthodontist if you could serve as a "shadow" or do an "internship" in his office to learn the skills necessary. Ask to volunteer! finally, there are training programs out there specifically for orthodontics.

Supply & Demand: Depends on the need for the position you are seeking. Know that training is only one criteria that Orthodontists look for in a prospective employee. They also look for a bright people-friendly personality, willingness to learn, enthusiasm for the job, and willingness to contribute to enhancing the practice's image. Be persistent. You will eventually find a position.