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Orthodontic Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Smile Doctors

Orthodontic Assistant

Waukee, IA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

How you'll make us better: * Assist in placing and removing orthodontic appliances, and taking full records under supervision of the Orthodontist * Perform accurate and efficient procedures to ...

Smile Doctors

Orthodontic Assistant

Waukee, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

How you'll make us better: * Assist in placing and removing orthodontic appliances, and taking full records under supervision of the Orthodontist * Perform accurate and efficient procedures to ...

Iowa City Orthodontics

Dental assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Join our energetic Iowa City orthodontic practice earning $16-25/hr with paid holidays and vacation. # Dynamic Orthodontic Practice Join our dedicated team as a Dental Assistant in a supportive ...

Tooth Haven Pediatric Dentistry

Orthodontist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$187.50 - $200/hr

This is a unique part-time opportunity to provide high-quality orthodontic care to a growing patient base of children and adolescents in a modern, supportive setting. Tooth Haven Pediatric Dentistry ...

Lifetime Dentistry

Dental Assistant

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Shade match patients for doctor as requested. * Assist with orthodontic procedures. * Thoroughly clean and disinfect treatment rooms after procedures are completed. * Have patient sign treatment and ...

Align Technology, Inc.

We revolutionized the orthodontic industry with the introduction of the Invisalign system, and we ... R teams. * Assist with benchmarking activities related to employee benefits and identify ...

Align Technology, Inc.

We revolutionized the orthodontic industry with the introduction of the Invisalign system, and we ... R teams. * Assist with benchmarking activities related to employee benefits and identify ...

Mercy

Primary Care Assistant - Medical Assistant

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Primary Care Assistant - Medical Assistant Location: Mercy Clinic Primary Care Oakville - 5758 Telegraph Road Oakville,MO63129 Schedule: Full Time, Day Shift * Education: High school diploma or ...

Access Dubuque

Administrative Assistant

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Administrative Assistant Express Employment Professionals 1 Positions ID: 14582614 Posted On 08/18/2026 Job Overview Express Employment Professionals is seeking candidates for an Administrative ...

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All JobsOrthodontic JobsOrthodontic Assistant JobsOrthodontic Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Orthodontic Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$26

How much do orthodontic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for orthodontic assistant in Iowa is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an orthodontic assistant do?

Orthodontists are dental specialists who correct teeth or jaws that are misaligned. Orthodontic Assistants prepare the patients for their treatment and perform simple procedures under the direction of the Orthodontist. Procedures include taking x-rays and molded impressions of the patient's mouth, installing wires to braces, and tightening brackets. Unlike Dental Assistants who work beside the Dentist, Orthodontic Assistants operate independently from the Orthodontist, performing their tasks before and after the examination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an orthodontic assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orthodontic Assistant, you need knowledge of dental anatomy, proficiency in chairside assisting, and typically completion of a dental assisting program or certification. Familiarity with dental radiography equipment, orthodontic instruments, and practice management software is also important. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a friendly, patient-focused attitude help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring patient comfort, supporting orthodontists efficiently, and maintaining smooth clinic operations.

What are some common challenges an orthodontic assistant may face during a typical workday?

Orthodontic Assistants often work in a fast-paced environment where multitasking and attention to detail are crucial. Common challenges include managing multiple patients with varying needs, assisting the orthodontist during complex procedures, and ensuring all instruments are properly sterilized and prepared. Additionally, clear communication with both patients and team members is essential, especially when explaining care instructions or calming anxious patients. Adaptability and strong organizational skills help Orthodontic Assistants navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Orthodontic Assistant vs Dental Assistant?

AspectOrthodontic AssistantDental Assistant
CertificationsCertified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) often preferredDental Assistant certification (CDA) or DANB certification
Work EnvironmentSpecialized orthodontic offices, clinicsGeneral dental practices, clinics
Job DutiesAssist with orthodontic appliances, braces, and patient education specific to orthodonticsAssist with general dental procedures, sterilization, patient care

Orthodontic Assistants focus on supporting orthodontic treatments like braces, requiring specialized knowledge and certifications. Dental Assistants have a broader role across general dentistry. Both roles work in dental settings but differ in scope and specialization.

Who gets paid more, a dental assistant or an orthodontic assistant?

Orthodontic assistants typically earn higher wages than general dental assistants due to specialized training and working directly with orthodontists on complex procedures. Both roles require certification and experience, but orthodontic assistants often have additional skills in orthodontic appliances and tools, which can lead to higher pay.
More about Orthodontic Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Orthodontic jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Orthodontic jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Orthodontic Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Orthodontic Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Orthodontic Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Orthodontic Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Orthodontic Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Orthodontic Assistant job openings:

Orthodontic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Orthodontic Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,069 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Orthodontic Assistant

Smile Doctors

Waukee, IA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Smile Doctors rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

697th of 895 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Looking for a career that makes you smile?

Johnson Orthodontics is seeking an Orthodontic Clinician II to join our growing team.

Responsible for delivering positive clinical experience to all patients while following strict adherence to company policies as well state dental laws, rules and regulations under the direction and supervision of an Orthodontist.

How you'll make us better:

  • Assist in placing and removing orthodontic appliances, and taking full records under supervision of the Orthodontist
  • Perform accurate and efficient procedures to maintain the schedule and patient flow
  • Review patient charts, log appropriate patient data and transcribe doctor notes
  • Perform laboratory procedures under supervision of an Orthodontist
  • Assist the Point with performing final checks on patients and leading patient flow
  • Administer the remote monitoring dashboard including review/triage patient scans, respond to direct patient messages, and triage notifications
  • Educate the patients on orthodontic care and remote monitoring
  • Clean, sterilize, and prepare the equipment and operatory following standard protocols
  • Assist in Local Store Marketing and community events
  • Adhere to all infection-control policies and protocols

Your special skills:

We're proud of our company culture and heritage of awesomeness. If you've got the following, you'll fit right in:

  • Ability build rapport with patients
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with patients and coworkers
  • Ability to use hand tools
  • Ability to set priorities regarding patient care, manage full schedules and multi-task

Prerequisites for success:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Minimum one (1) year of previous Orthodontic experience or six (6) months experience as a Smile Doctor's Orthodontic Clinician I
  • Dental Assistant certification if required by state Dental Board
  • Radiography certification if required by state Dental Board
  • CPR certification if required by state Dental Board

The Perks:

In exchange for the dynamic contribution you'll bring to our team, we offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • 401(k) plan
  • 2 weeks paid time off in your first year + paid holidays
  • Discounts on braces and clear aligners for you and your family members

Why Johnson Orthodontics?

We exist to love people first, straighten teeth second, and we work hard to maintain a people-first culture and cultivate a fun, encouraging environment.

We offer every Team Member the opportunity to be a part of something bigger. We nurture both talents and strengths, building each person's abilities to help them find success in their career and beyond. We're looking for passionate, innovative professionals who can join us in changing the way the world smiles.

This is the perfect opportunity to grow with an expanding organization! Apply today!

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