Differences between a general dental assistant and an orthodontic assistant?

Specialtist: An orthodontic assistant has been trained specifically for orthodontic proceedures. Most dental assisting schools do in fact teach some basic orthodontic things (what spacers are, mixing band cement, etc.). An pure orthodontic assistant has been trained for the orthodontic office (insturment recognition, wires, etc...).

Lots: Dentistry and orthodontics are very different fields of medicine and therefore assisting with each is very different. As an ortho assistant you will help band/bond and adjust braces. My team finds it very fufilling!

Where they work: Dental assistants are employees of dentists, who help in the delivery of dental care. An orthodontic assistant is a dental assistant who has more experience in working in an orthodontic office. Depending upon the state you live in, sometimes dental assistants are licensed, sometimes not. If they are licensed, there is not difference between a general dental assistant and an ortho assistant.

Training: Both are trained to assist the doctor that they work with. Some procedures are similar and others are dramatically different.

Patientt Mgt skills: The differences between the two are based in training, experience, and personality. A full share orthodontic assistant has between 3 and 5 years experience in orthodontics in addition to some type of training program and some general dental experience. They have been in the field, are tested over time and can handle adolescents and teens in their worst of times. Takes a special breed.

Training: Dental and orthodontic assistants act as an extra pair of hands for the practitioner. Many tasks performed are the same, many differ. Depends on the needs of the practitioner.