Position Summary
The Lead Orthodontic Assistant supports the orthodontist and practice leadership by delivering outstanding clinical care, guiding a high-performing clinical team, and ensuring the daily operations of the orthodontic bay run efficiently. This role combines advanced clinical expertise with leadership responsibilities, serving as a mentor, trainer, and point of contact for clinical assistants.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Support
Assist the orthodontist with all clinical procedures, including bonding, debonding, impressions/scanning, wire changes, adjustments, and sterilization protocols.
Maintain strict compliance with OSHA, HIPAA, and infection-control standards.
Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and equipment for daily patient flow.
Ensure accurate charting, documentation, and updating of patient records.
Manage inventory of clinical supplies and submit restock requests as needed.
Leadership & Team Development
Serve as the lead resource for clinical assistants regarding workflow, protocols, and best practices.
Provide hands-on training and onboarding for new orthodontic assistants.
Support daily team huddles, patient flow management, and communication between front and back office.
Lead by example with professionalism, teamwork, and a positive patient-focused attitude.
Assist with scheduling clinical team coverage to ensure proper staffing.
Operational Excellence
Monitor clinical standards to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency across all procedures.
Collaborate with the orthodontist and manager on process improvements, patient satisfaction initiatives, and clinical KPIs.
Ensure all equipment is functioning properly and coordinate service/maintenance when needed.
Support adherence to company policies, safety standards, and compliance requirements.
Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of orthodontic assisting experience required (expanded duties preferred).
Current CPR certification required.
X-ray certification preferred or must be obtained within required timeframe.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume orthodontic environment.
Preferred Skills
- A minimum of a high school degree or equivalent is required.
- An Orthodontist Assistant state certification, included but not limited to, nitrous oxide, dental radiology, and expanded function dental assistant (EFDA) or expanded duties dental assistant (EDDA).
- CPR certification
Job related experience:
- Experience working in a professional, medical, or dental environment with direct customer service is desired.
- A minimum of 1-year orthodontic assisting experience.
Job-related skills and competencies:
- Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills- must be able to establish and maintain positive working relationships.
- Must be customer service oriented and able to communicate with a pleasant demeanor at all times.
- Communication- effective written and verbal communication is a must with all staff and management.
- Must be able to project a capable and professional image that is reflective of company values.
- Must possess excellent organizational skills- strong attention to detail, be able to multitask and perform job duties in a timely manner.
- Must have PC skills and be able to learn and successfully use new programs as required. Computer proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office is preferred; as well as experience with a fax machine, copy machine, and general office equipment.
Working Conditions:
- Dental Office Environment
- Hours may change to meet the business needs.
- Travel to offices that provide orthodontic services may be required.
- Attend and participate in all office meetings, continuing education events and morning huddles.
- Nature of work requires an ability to effectively communicate and exchange information with patients, their parents and staff.
- Must be able to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
- Ability to lift/carry up to 30 pounds and be able to twist, turn, bend and stoop.
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D4C Dental
Dec 03, 2025