A nice smile is always a pleasure to see. As an orthodontic assistant you will have the opportunity to work daily brightening smiles and improving patient dental health. Orthodontic assistants work directly with orthodontists to ensure efficient and quality health care by assisting in and carrying out a variety of significant responsibilities. As an Orthodontic assistant you will aid the orthodontist in the proper alignment of teeth which includes performing a good deal of the work needed to adjust braces. Orthodontic assistants also take x-rays, sterilize and arrange instruments, make dental impressions as well as participate in laboratory work. In addition, orthodontic assistants give a helping hand in the office as well which includes clerical work, record keeping and the organization of appointments. While some orthodontic assistants are trained on the job graduates from Orthodontic assistant schools face better job prospects. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists has recognized the need for more quality trained staff as one of the profession's greatest needs. Attending an accredited orthodontic assistant school prepares you for all the challenges faced in modern orthodontic offices. Course work focuses both on the administrative and clinical aspects of the job. Typical classes include: oral anatomy, diagnostic records, radiation safety, patient management and tooth development to name a few. With more than 80,000 annual job openings reported graduates from orthodontic assistant schools can look forward to a bright, smile-filled career in a fast-growing medical field.