This school was established by an orthodontist in response to the need for trained, qualified assistants. Located in Duluth, the school uses a clinical classroom setting, usually a practicing orthodontic office, for hands-on training. All classes are scheduled on Saturdays to accommodate working students. The course lasts eight weeks. There is no uniform required by the school, although instructors encourage dressing in clothes appropriate to the profession. The school is licensed by the Georgia Commission of Nonpublic Post-Secondary Education.
Stone Mountain is home to the Georgia Orthodontic Assisting School. The program was designed for working adults to be able to train in a new career. Certified instructors give hands-on instruction and offer the flexibility of performing some of the studying online. Classes are only on Saturdays and last for eight weeks. Students learn the latest techniques of orthodontic assisting as well as how to get the job desired. Training covers such subjects as office technology, clinical procedures, film processing patient etiquette.
The Academy of Orthodontic Assisting is an online course that teaches the fundamentals of orthodontics, as well as advanced concepts and procedures. There are two levels of orthodontic assistant programs offered, which must be completed within six months. Topics covered include oral and dental anatomy, basic orthodontic appliance parts, archwire selection, parent communication and professionalism. The courses are ideal for those already in the orthodontic industry and are looking for specialized training.
Located in Warner Robins, the Middle Georgia Technical College offers two dental programs -- dental assisting and dental hygiene. The dental-assisting program prepares students for a variety of positions, including orthodontic assistant. Students receive certifications in radiation health and safety, as well as expanded functions in dental assisting. Both of the certifications are required by the Georgia State Board of Dentistry. Upon graduation, students are ready to take the Dental Assisting National Board Program. To enroll in the program, students must pass the PSB-Health Occupations Aptitude Exam with a minimum score of 230.