Introductory Course for Orthodontic Assistants
Topics:
A key role in transforming patients’ confidence, self-esteem, and long-term health.
Session 1: Welcome and Introduction to Orthodontics
- Icebreaker: “What do you expect from this job?”
- What is orthodontics? (short history, why it matters, examples of successful cases with before/after pictures).
- Who is in the orthodontic team and the assistant’s role.
- Key qualities needed to succeed as an orthodontic assistant.
Session 2: Basics of Orthodontics – What You Need to Know
- Basic dental and skeletal anatomy (simple illustrations, not too technical).
- Common orthodontic problems: crowding, spacing, bite issues.
- Introduction to appliances: braces, wires, aligners, retainers (show models or photos).
- Glossary of key terms they will hear daily.
Session 3: A Day in the Life of an Orthodontic Assistant
- Overview of daily tasks:
- Chairside assisting.
- Preparing trays and instruments.
- Infection control and sterilization.
- Administrative duties.
- Patient management: explaining procedures, calming anxious kids, communication with parents.
- Case walk-through: follow one patient “from consultation to retention” with photos/videos.
Session 4: The Value of the Orthodontic Assistant in Transforming Lives
- Confidence and Self-Esteem
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- Many patients arrive embarrassed about their smile, especially teenagers.
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- As assistants, you are often the first reassuring face they see.
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- By supporting their journey, you help them gain confidence in school, work, and social life.
- Health and Function
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- Orthodontics isn’t just cosmetic. Properly aligned teeth improve chewing, speech, and long-term oral health.
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- Assistants contribute by making treatments efficient, safe, and smooth — ensuring results last a lifetime.
- Patient Experience
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- Patients may see their orthodontist only briefly, but they interact with assistants a lot.
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- How you smile, explain, calm, and encourage them shapes their entire treatment experience.
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- A kind assistant can turn a nervous or resistant child into a cooperative, happy patient.
- Team Contribution
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- Orthodontists rely heavily on skilled assistants.
- The smoother your work, the better the clinic runs.
- You’re not “helping in the background” — you’re an essential part of a healthcare team that changes lives.
- Personal Fulfillment
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- Every day, you’ll witness progress: crooked teeth becoming straight, shy kids smiling for the first time without hiding.
- Few professions allow you to see such visible, positive change in people’s lives.
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- Your role combines technical skill, communication, and human care — a rare and rewarding mix.
Contact:
For more information, please contact Onno van Harmelen:
ovanharmelen@americanortho.com
Tuition:
75€ per person incl. VAT
Tuition includes: lectures, lunch and drinks.