Orthodontic nurse

What does an orthodontic dental assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An orthodontic dental assistant works with specialized dental care in orthodontics, often in collaboration with orthodontists and dentists. Tasks include assisting during treatments, preparing and sterilizing instruments, taking impressions, documenting patient data, and providing information and support to patients before and during treatment. The work is mainly carried out in specialist orthodontic clinics, where teamwork and patient contact are central. The environment is clinical and characterized by high demands on accuracy, hygiene, and service orientation.

Salary development over time

The salary for orthodontic dental assistants has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK, which increased to 31 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 33 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 12.8% over three years. This salary development reflects increased demand for specialized dental care and a growing need for expertise in orthodontics, while employers compete for trained staff. Changes in collective agreements and investments in further education have also contributed to salary increases. Women have experienced a higher salary growth than men during this period, which is uncommon in the healthcare sector and indicates a positive trend towards equality within the profession.

Orthodontic dental assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (men), 28,900 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (men), 37,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 111% of what men do
• Regional differences: Varies slightly, with higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as an orthodontic dental assistant, a basic dental assistant education is required, often supplemented with specialist training or experience in orthodontics. The educational path is clear and typically involves a vocational university program followed by practical training and possibly certification courses. Good teamwork skills, precision, and an interest in orthodontics are important qualities for success in the role.

• Dental assistant education: Vocational university, 1.5 years (300 YH points)
• Specialist courses: Focused on orthodontics, often via employers or additional training
• Practical training: Included as a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and upper secondary school qualifications
• Tip: Choose a program with a strong focus on orthodontics and opportunities for internship at a specialist clinic

Common benefits and compensations

Orthodontic dental assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, health insurance, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations include extra vacation days, professional development, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer further training or specialization in orthodontics as part of employment conditions.

Competitions and challenges

The competition within the profession of orthodontic dental assistant is moderate, with a balanced supply and demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges include staying updated on new treatment methods and techniques, as well as managing a high patient flow. Specialist clinics often seek staff with experience or further training in orthodontics, which may mean that recent graduates need to supplement their education. Workload can be high at times, especially in larger clinics in urban areas. At the same time, the profession offers good opportunities for skills development and specialization.

Tips for those who want to become an orthodontic dental assistant

To succeed as an orthodontic dental assistant, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of service and good communication skills, as patient contact is central to the profession. Precision and organizational skills are crucial when handling instruments and documentation, facilitating teamwork and patient care. Being flexible and stress-resistant helps during periods of high tempo and many patient meetings. A genuine interest in orthodontics and a desire for continuous development through further training provide advantages in the job market. Collaboration skills are also important, as the work is carried out in close cooperation with orthodontists and other dental staff. Showing engagement and responsibility in interactions with patients and colleagues contributes to a positive work environment and increases opportunities for advancement within the profession.

Key facts about orthodontic dental assistants

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational university, 1.5 years
• Work environment: Clinical specialist clinic, teamwork
• Demand: 375 job openings, moderate opportunities

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an orthodontic dental assistant, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles within the clinic, such as coordinator, supervisor for new colleagues, or trainer in orthodontics. Some choose to further specialize as an orthodontic assistant or in other areas of dentistry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the job market is expected to be balanced, with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. There are also good opportunities to change workplaces, work in private or public clinics, and engage in quality development and digitalization within dental care.

Frequently asked questions about orthodontic dental assistants

• What does an orthodontic dental assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and workplace.
• How do you become an orthodontic dental assistant?
  - By completing a dental assistant education at a vocational university and preferably supplementing with specialist courses in orthodontics.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 111% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for orthodontic dental assistants?
  - Job opportunities are assessed as moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does an orthodontic dental assistant perform?
  - Assist during orthodontic treatments, take impressions, document patient data, and provide information and support to patients.
• What education is required?
  - A dental assistant education lasting 1.5 years at a vocational university, possibly supplemented with further training in orthodontics.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, several specialist courses and professional development opportunities in orthodontics are available for dental assistants.