Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving world of dental healthcare, the significance of orthodontic dental hygienists has increased more than ever.

As dental technology advances, the need for skilled individuals who can provide, enhance, and ensure our dental health service quality grows stronger.

But let’s look beyond the surface: What’s really expected from an orthodontic dental hygienist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the day-to-day duties of orthodontic dental hygienists,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable orthodontic dental hygienist job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Duties and Responsibilities

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists perform a variety of oral healthcare tasks, primarily focusing on the treatment and prevention of oral diseases.

They work closely with orthodontists to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Perform oral health assessments, including reviewing patients’ health history and dental charting
• Take, develop and mount dental radiographs (x-rays)
• Remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth
• Apply preventive materials such as fluorides and sealants to the teeth
• Teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; for example, tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counselling
• Conduct dental health screenings for orthodontic treatment
• Work with orthodontist to plan and manage treatment for patients with braces
• Assist with the placement, adjustment, and removal of orthodontic appliances
• Document treatment plans and care performed on patients
• Maintain strict compliance with State, Federal, and other regulations, such as patient privacy and sterilization procedures
• Order dental supplies and maintain dental equipment inventory

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Orthodontic Dental Hygienist to join our dental team.

The successful candidate will provide complete oral hygiene care to our patients, including teeth cleanings, dental x-rays, and educating patients on proper dental hygiene.

The Orthodontic Dental Hygienist will also work closely with the Orthodontist, aiding in the application and maintenance of orthodontic appliances.

Our ideal candidate is proficient in patient care, and is dedicated to making dental experiences comfortable and efficient.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform dental hygiene services and procedures, including dental prophylaxis, scaling, fluoride application, and sealants
• Prepare patients for orthodontic treatment by taking dental x-rays and providing oral hygiene education
• Assist orthodontist with the application and maintenance of orthodontic appliances
• Document patient dental history and treatment plans
• Provide postoperative instructions prescribed by the orthodontist
• Maintain dental supplies inventory by checking stock, anticipating needs, placing orders, and verifying receipt
• Ensure operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance and calling for repairs when necessary
• Adhere to infection-control policies and protocols

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher in Dental Hygiene from an accredited institution
• Current state licensure in Dental Hygiene and certification from an accredited program
• Knowledge of dental software and Microsoft Office
• Experience in preparing and maintaining dental equipment
• Exceptional communication and patient care skills
• Able to work in a fast-paced, high-volume clinic setting
• Current CPR certification

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Continuing education opportunities
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Orthodontic Dental Hygienist
• Work Environment: Dental clinic setting. Occasional weekend and evening shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Orthodontist or Dental Office Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Do?

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists are specialized healthcare professionals who work specifically in the field of orthodontics.

Their primary role is to support Orthodontists in delivering dental care to patients who are undergoing treatment for alignment or straightening of teeth.

They perform oral health assessments, take and develop dental radiographs, and provide preventative dental care such as cleaning and fluoride treatments, particularly around braces and other orthodontic appliances.

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists also play a crucial role in patient education.

They advise patients on proper oral hygiene techniques to maintain good dental health and to prevent dental issues, especially when wearing braces or retainers.

In some cases, they may assist the Orthodontist during procedures by preparing and sterilizing instruments, and also by providing chairside assistance.

They ensure a comfortable and anxiety-free environment for the patients during their orthodontic treatment, addressing any concerns or questions the patients might have.

In all aspects of their work, Orthodontic Dental Hygienists adhere to stringent health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of diseases.

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Qualifications and Skills

An accomplished Orthodontic Dental Hygienist should possess skills and qualifications that are in line with your job requirements, such as:

• Ability to perform thorough oral health assessments, including reviewing patients’ health history, dental charting, oral cancer screening, and periodontal disease assessment.
• Expertise in teeth cleaning techniques, including scaling, root planning, prophylaxis, and fluoride application.
• Knowledge of orthodontic appliances and the required hygiene care and maintenance for each.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with patients, explaining procedures and providing post-treatment care instructions.
• Attention to detail for accurate record keeping of treatments, procedures and patient medical histories.
• Excellent manual dexterity to perform delicate procedures in a small working area.
• Empathy and understanding to make patients feel comfortable during dental procedures, particularly those with anxieties about dental work.
• Staying current with the latest technologies and techniques in dental hygiene and orthodontics.
• Ability to manage appointment schedules and ensure all patients are attended to in a timely manner.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols to ensure a clean and safe environment for patients and staff.

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Experience Requirements

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists generally earn an associate’s degree in dental hygiene, which includes gaining a significant amount of both theoretical and practical experience in the field during their study.

This can be accomplished through a combination of classroom learning, laboratory work, and supervised clinical experience.

Additionally, they must pass a written and clinical board examination to become licensed to practice.

Some hygienists opt to go further with their education and earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene, which can open up more advanced job opportunities.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through part-time roles or internships in a dental practice.

They might also gain experience by participating in preventive dental care outreach programs.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in roles such as general Dental Hygienist or Dental Assistant.

These professionals are well-versed in patient care, dental procedures, and office operations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, on the other hand, may have leadership experience in their background.

They may be ready for positions such as Lead Dental Hygienist, or even for managerial roles within a dental practice.

Some may even have the necessary experience to become an instructor in dental hygiene programs.

Furthermore, continuous education is often encouraged in this field to stay up-to-date with the latest dental technologies and practices.

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Education and Training Requirements

An Orthodontic Dental Hygienist typically requires an Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene from an accredited dental hygiene program.

The curriculum of these programs combines classroom instruction in anatomy, medical ethics, radiography, and periodontology with supervised clinical instruction.

In addition to the completion of a dental hygiene program, all states require dental hygienists to be licensed.

The licensure requirements vary by state but generally require successful completion of both a written and clinical exam.

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists also need a strong background in patient care, infection control, and teeth cleaning techniques.

Familiarity with tools and technologies used in dental procedures is essential.

Specialty training in orthodontics is often required, which can be obtained through additional coursework or on-the-job training under the supervision of an experienced Orthodontist or Orthodontic Hygienist.

Continuing education is important in this field to keep up with the latest treatments, research, and tools in dental hygiene and orthodontics.

Some hygienists may also choose to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene to advance their careers.

Finally, strong interpersonal and communication skills are crucial as Orthodontic Dental Hygienists often interact with patients, providing them with dental health education and advice.

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Salary Expectations

An Orthodontic Dental Hygienist can expect to earn an average salary of $74,820 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary based on factors such as level of experience, additional specialization, the state in which they work, and the organization they work for.

 

Orthodontic Dental Hygienist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Orthodontic Dental Hygienist need?

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists need strong interpersonal and communication skills to ensure patients feel comfortable and understand the procedures.

They should possess good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to use dental tools effectively.

Attention to detail is also essential in diagnosing oral health issues and maintaining accurate patient records.

 

What qualifications are required to become an Orthodontic Dental Hygienist?

Orthodontic Dental Hygienists must have a minimum of an associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited dental hygiene program.

After completing their education, they must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a state-level or regional clinical licensure examination to become licensed and legally able to practice.

 

What should you look for in an Orthodontic Dental Hygienist’s resume?

Look for a valid license to practice dental hygiene and relevant education credentials.

It’s also important to see if they have experience working in an orthodontic setting.

Additional skills to look for include communication skills, manual dexterity, and familiarity with dental software.

Any additional certifications or special training, such as in orthodontic procedures, can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Orthodontic Dental Hygienist?

A good Orthodontic Dental Hygienist is patient, empathetic, and has excellent communication skills to make patients feel at ease during procedures.

They are detail-oriented, enabling them to observe and correctly identify any oral health issues.

Good hygiene and organizational skills are also key in maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

 

Are Orthodontic Dental Hygienists in high demand?

Yes, Orthodontic Dental Hygienists are generally in high demand.

With an increasing awareness of oral health and the rise in orthodontic treatments, the need for specialized dental hygienists is growing.

Furthermore, as the population ages and retains more of their natural teeth, the demand for preventive dental care continues to rise.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have revealed the true essence of being an orthodontic dental hygienist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

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

With our reliable orthodontic dental hygienist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why stop here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tooth is a part of the bigger smile.

Let’s create those smiles. Together.

How to Become an Orthodontic Dental Hygienist (Complete Guide)

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