Dental Assistant

Instruct the patient in proper technique of orthodontic oral hygiene, e.g. the use of elastics, separators, face bow and removable appliances and proper tooth brushing technique.

Perform the following functions provided the dentist is on the premises and checks the patient before and after the functions are performed: Remove cement from bands using an ultrasonic or hand scaler. Re-cement loose orthodontic bands Take impressions for the following purposes: Diagnostic models; Counter and opposing models; Fabrication of temporary removable orthodontic appliances; Intraoral bite registration for study model articulation. Remove any portion of an orthodontic appliance causing a patient discomfort and replace isomeric ligatures in an emergency when the dentist is not on the premises. Evaluate each returning patient for loose or broken bands and/or unbonded brackets.

Place and remove ligature ties for adjustment of arch wires and/or bands. Place and remove arch wires. Preliminarily select and size bands. Place and remove interarch elastics and/or spring orthodontic separators. Place bracket on study model and fabricate tray for indirect bonding procedures.

Photograph patient for intraoral and extraoral diagnosis utilizing appropriate retraction technique and equipment. Label and record all models, photographs, and x-rays for presentation of case and later retention. Properly finish study models consistent with the criteria established by the orthodontist.

As instructed, trace cephalometric x-rays for diagnostic purposes consistent with criteria established by the orthodontist.