Associate Orthodontist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern world, the demand for skilled associate orthodontists has never been greater.

As advancements in dental technology continue, the need for proficient individuals who can understand, apply and advance these developments grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an associate orthodontist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of orthodontics,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable associate orthodontist job description template, crafted for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Associate Orthodontist Duties and Responsibilities

Associate Orthodontists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.

They work closely with patients, dental assistants, and other dental professionals to develop and implement orthodontic treatment plans.

The daily duties and responsibilities of an Associate Orthodontist include:

• Evaluating patient dental and oral health to determine the need for orthodontic treatment
• Designing and customizing braces, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances to fit patients’ needs
• Interpreting x-rays and diagnostic tests to create appropriate treatment plans
• Conducting regular check-ups to monitor the progress of treatments and make necessary adjustments
• Providing oral hygiene instructions and dietary advice to patients
• Ensuring patient comfort during procedures and treatments
• Documenting patient’s dental health history and treatment plans
• Collaborating with other dental professionals such as oral surgeons or pediatric dentists as necessary
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of the latest orthodontic treatment practices and technologies
• Communicating effectively with patients and their families, explaining treatment options, and answering queries

 

Associate Orthodontist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Associate Orthodontist to join our dental team.

The Associate Orthodontist’s responsibilities include diagnosing patients’ oral health conditions, developing treatment plans, straightening teeth, correcting bite issues, and improving patients’ oral health.

Our ideal candidates are experienced in orthodontics procedures, have excellent problem-solving skills, and are committed to improving the oral health and self-esteem of our patients.

Ultimately, the role of the Associate Orthodontist is to provide exceptional orthodontic care that aligns with our practice’s standards and mission.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies
• Design and fabricate appliances for the correction of dental and oral abnormalities
• Manage orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages
• Contribute towards a team oriented and collegiate environment by working with other clinical staff and specialists
• Communicate treatment plans and recommendations to patients and families
• Stay up-to-date with developments in the orthodontics field
• Maintain patient records and ensure their confidentiality

 

Qualifications

• Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD) required
• Successful completion of an orthodontic residency program
• Active state dental board licensure
• Board certification in orthodontics is a plus
• Excellent visual awareness and manual dexterity
• Outstanding communication skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Associate Orthodontist
• Work Environment: Dental clinic or hospital setting, with potential for weekend and after-hours emergency consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Orthodontist or Dental Practice Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $180,000 minimum to $300,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Associate Orthodontist Do?

An Associate Orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and corrects malpositioned teeth and jaws.

They work under the supervision of a senior orthodontist in a dental practice or clinic.

They provide patients with a variety of treatments like braces, retainers and other orthodontic appliances that help in teeth alignment.

They also monitor the progress of these treatments and make any necessary adjustments.

Their role also involves conducting detailed patient assessments which include reviewing dental health history, performing clinical examinations, taking X-rays, and creating teeth molds to determine the most effective orthodontic treatment plan.

In addition to treating patients, Associate Orthodontists are responsible for educating patients and their families about oral hygiene practices and the correct use and care of orthodontic appliances.

They are also tasked with keeping up-to-date patient records, staying current with the latest developments in orthodontic treatment, and maintaining a clean and sterile work environment.

Some Associate Orthodontists may also participate in research studies, contribute to academic journals, and attend industry conferences to stay abreast of the latest advancements in orthodontics.

 

Associate Orthodontist Qualifications and Skills

An associate orthodontist should possess a variety of technical skills, soft skills and in-depth knowledge of dentistry.

The required skills and qualifications may include:

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry/Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from an accredited university.
• Specialist certification or eligibility in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.
• In-depth knowledge of orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatment plans, appliances, and retention systems.
• Outstanding hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to perform delicate procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients and families, understand their concerns and explain treatments in a compassionate and clear manner.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose and treat complex dental issues.
• Detail-oriented nature to ensure precision in orthodontic procedures and to keep accurate records of patient treatments.
• Good time management skills to handle multiple patients efficiently and punctually.
• Excellent communication skills to coordinate with dental team members and other healthcare professionals.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the evolving field of orthodontics.

 

Associate Orthodontist Experience Requirements

To become an Associate Orthodontist, candidates must first earn a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science-related field, and then complete a dental program to obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.

After completing dental school, the candidate must then specialize in orthodontics through a residency program.

This is usually a two to three-year post-graduate program, where they gain hands-on experience treating patients under the supervision of experienced orthodontists.

In total, candidates typically have around 8 to 10 years of combined education and professional training before they are eligible to practice as an Associate Orthodontist.

Some dental clinics might also require their Associate Orthodontists to have a certain number of years of experience in a clinical setting, to ensure they are capable of performing orthodontic procedures independently.

This experience can be gained through internships, residencies, or working as an orthodontist in a general dental practice.

As they gain more experience and demonstrate their clinical proficiency, Associate Orthodontists can take on additional responsibilities, such as supervising junior orthodontists or becoming involved in research or teaching.

In addition, to maintain their license and stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies in orthodontics, ongoing continuing education and professional development are often required.

 

Associate Orthodontist Education and Training Requirements

Associate Orthodontists must hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).

After completion of dental school, aspiring orthodontists must then complete a two to three-year residency in orthodontics.

This specialized program provides training in orthodontic theory, diagnosis and treatment planning, and clinical skills, and culminates in a specialist certificate or Master’s degree in Orthodontics.

In order to practice, orthodontists must obtain a state license.

This typically requires passing the National Board Dental Examinations and an additional state or regional exam.

Furthermore, while not mandatory, many orthodontists choose to become board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.

This involves passing a voluntary, rigorous examination process that shows their commitment to a high level of orthodontic care.

Continuing education is also critical for orthodontists to keep up with the latest techniques and technology in the field.

Many participate in professional development courses, seminars, and conferences throughout their careers.

 

Associate Orthodontist Salary Expectations

An Associate Orthodontist typically earns an average salary of $208,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, the region in which they practice, and the type of practice or company they work for.

 

Associate Orthodontist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Associate Orthodontist need?

Associate Orthodontists need a combination of technical and interpersonal skills.

They should have a deep understanding of dental procedures, oral health care, and orthodontic treatments.

They also need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, interpersonal and communication skills are crucial for explaining procedures to patients, alleviating their fears, and building strong patient relationships.

 

What is the educational requirement for an Associate Orthodontist?

To become an Associate Orthodontist, one must first complete a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of dental school to become a Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine.

After dental school, an additional 2-3 years of specialized orthodontic training is required.

Finally, to practice professionally, they must pass the National Board Dental Examination and obtain state licensure.

 

What should you look for in an Associate Orthodontist resume?

In an Associate Orthodontist’s resume, the first thing to look for is their educational qualifications and licensure.

Verify their experience in orthodontic treatment planning, patient care, and hands-on orthodontic procedures.

Check for any additional certifications or memberships in professional organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists, which reflect commitment to the profession.

 

What qualities make a good Associate Orthodontist?

A good Associate Orthodontist should have excellent manual dexterity and precision to perform intricate procedures.

They should be patient and compassionate, able to reassure nervous patients and work well with children and teens.

Strong problem-solving skills to devise effective treatment plans and the ability to stay updated with the latest advancements in orthodontics are also critical.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to explain procedures and treatments to patients and their parents.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Associate Orthodontist?

Hiring an Associate Orthodontist can indeed be challenging due to the high level of expertise and specialization required in this field.

Additionally, as orthodontics is a lucrative and rewarding profession, potential candidates often prefer to open their own practices rather than work as an associate.

Therefore, attractive compensation, a good working environment, and growth opportunities may need to be offered to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the essential role of an associate orthodontist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about straightening teeth.

It’s about crafting beautiful smiles, one tooth at a time.

With our comprehensive associate orthodontist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate listings or perfecting your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every smile you help create is part of a bigger picture.

Let’s create those smiles. Together.

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