When you go to the orthodontist, you probably don’t think about all of the work that your orthodontic assistant puts in to make the appointment run as smoothly as possible. They do a lot more in the office than you probably even expected. The first week of March is Dental Assistance Recognition Week, so there is no better time to think of all of the reasons why your orthodontic assistant deserves your appreciation. Here are a few of the important responsibilities that they have on a daily basis.
What Do Orthodontic Assistants Do?
Preparation and Takedown
Before you even make it to your chair at the orthodontist, the orthodontic assistant has been hard at work in order to prepare the space for your visit. There are strict cleaning procedures involved to ensure that you are in a sterilized and safe place for your treatment to take place. This includes cleaning anything left over from a previous session and setting out all of the sterilized instruments that are going to be used. Once your appointment comes to an end, it starts all over again.
Assisting the Orthodontist
Your orthodontic assistant is typically the one that begins your appointment by taking you to your seat and discussing your needs. During your appointment, they help out your orthodontist with instrument handling and rinsing/suction. They are also the ones that typically take impressions of teeth and provide post-care instructions.
Office Management
While your orthodontic assistant is the one who you are usually talking to, their job isn’t just limited to face-to-face interactions with patients. They are working behind the scenes too. There is more to keeping the practice running smoothly, like ordering supplies, scheduling appointments, and other administrative tasks. They are some of the best multitaskers in the entire office!
How Can You Show Appreciation for Your Orthodontic Assistant?
It can be easy to forget about all of the hard work that your orthodontic assistant does. Here are some ways you can show your appreciation:
- A thank you card
- Gift card to a local restaurant
- A gift basket of snacks
Every time you go to the orthodontist, don’t forget about the orthodontic assistants that make it all possible! Maybe even bring them a little something to show how much you appreciate them!
About the Author
Dr. James A. Hart is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than four decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry and is active with the American Association of Orthodontics. He works with a team of skilled orthodontic assistants that help the practice to run smoothly. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Cleburne, TX, visit his website or call (817) 645-2432.