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Orthodontic Technician |
Career OverviewOrthodontic technicians construct and repair appliances for straightening teeth according to the specifications of orthodontists made by prescription. In the current climate, opportunities for orthodontic technicians are very good and they are likely to remains so.
To assist orthodontists, orthodontic technicians undertake a number of tasks to create and repair orthodontic appliances. Braces, retainers, and positioners are manufactured from metal and plastic parts. Orthodontic technicians are trained to assemble ad polish the metal parts of orthodontic appliances; they are also trained to carve, shape, and grind the plastic elements of the appliances used to straighten teeth and improve general jaw alignment.
Orthodontic technicians work in laboratories using specialist equipment such as spatulas, pliers, soldering torches, electric grinders, and polishers to develop orthodontic models to the prescribed specifications. They also test the appliances they manufacturer using articulators, to ensure that the specifications are met.
In addition to using a number of pieces of specialist equipment, orthodontic technicians also use computers to design and manufacture braces and retainers. They measurements are taken by the orthodontist and are coded into a computer, which is programmed to develop a three-dimensional image of the most appropriate design for the required piece. The image is then fed into the operating system of the manufacturing machine that produces the basic model. The orthodontist technician then works on the model, using specialist equipment to manipulate the basic structure.
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Career RequirementsOrthodontic technicians are generally required to undertake a two year certified training program to practice. Most programs require candidates to hold a high school diploma or equivalent and they generally look for demonstrated ability and interest in sciences, including chemistry, biology, anatomy, and mathematics.
Most orthodontic technicians also receive on-the-job training. The nature of the work is such that specific practices and procedures are crucially important and must be completed properly. Orthodontic technicians must also complete a technical examination and become licensed by the state in which they intend to practice.
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Job OutlookThe demand for orthodontic technicians is growing as the need for orthodontic services increases in dentistry. The dental industry, as part of the health care industry, is changing; as it does, orthodontic technicians will find an increasingly significant placement amongst orthodontists and dentists.
The job outlook for orthodontic technicians is excellent and candidates should expect to take on more responsibilities in these positions as the transformation of the dental industry progresses.
The job outlook is particularly good for individuals who have manual dexterity, mechanical ability, patience, ability to solve manipulative problems, and excellent communication skills.
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Career TrackOrthodontic technicians can work in a variety of different settings, including general dental office, hospitals, dental clinics, and commercial laboratories. They work under the supervision of an orthodontist but promotion as an assistant is certainly possible and will only become more so as these professionals receive more responsibilities.
Experience and demonstrated skill warrant promotions, either to a supervisory position or to a larger practice or clinic that promises a greater work load and greater professional autonomy for qualified orthodontic technicians.
Advancement is also possible and, for orthodontic technicians typically comes with certification, increased education, and experience within the field. Developing experience in the field offers the best opportunity for promotion.
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CompensationCompensation for full-time orthodontic technicians ranges between $25,000 and $45,000 per year depending on experience, qualification level, and the precise nature of the position.
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