ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Orthodontic Rda Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

360 Orthodontics

Orthodontic Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Vision insurance 360 Orthodontics is looking for a reliable Orthodontic Assistant at our Westwood ... DA, OA, or RDA Certification * X-rays and photos * CPR and/or BLS certification * Chair side ...

360 Orthodontics

Orthodontic Assistant

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Vision insurance 360 Orthodontics is looking for a reliable Orthodontic Assistant at our Santa Ana ... DA, OA, or RDA Certification * X-rays and photos * CPR and/or BLS certification * Chair side ...

360 Orthodontics

Orthodontic Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Vision insurance 360 Orthodontics is looking for a reliable Orthodontic Assistant at our Westwood ... DA, OA, or RDA Certification * X-rays and photos * CPR and/or BLS certification * Chair side ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOrthodontic Rda JobsOrthodontic Rda Jobs in California

Orthodontic Rda information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do orthodontic rda jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for orthodontic rda in California is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who gets paid more, RDA or CDA?

In the dental field, a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) typically earns more than a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) because the CDA credential often requires additional certification and experience. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer, with RDAs sometimes earning comparable wages in certain regions or specialties. Both roles require certification and hands-on skills, but the CDA designation generally indicates a higher level of training and responsibility, which can influence pay.

Why do people quit dental assisting?

People quit dental assisting jobs, including orthodontic Rda positions, often due to factors such as high stress, physically demanding work, limited advancement opportunities, or inadequate compensation. Job dissatisfaction can also stem from poor work environment, lack of recognition, or burnout from repetitive tasks and tight schedules. Maintaining good communication skills and a positive work environment can help reduce turnover.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Orthodontic Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orthodontic RDA, you need a solid understanding of dental assisting procedures, orthodontic techniques, and must hold a valid RDA license. Familiarity with dental radiography, orthodontic appliances, and practice management software is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to reassure patients, especially children, make a significant difference in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring effective treatment, patient comfort, and smooth operation of an orthodontic practice.

Can a dental assistant work in orthodontics?

An orthodontic registered dental assistant (RDA) can work in orthodontics, assisting with procedures such as placing and adjusting braces, taking impressions, and managing patient care. Additional training or certification in orthodontics may be required depending on the state or practice.

What is the difference between Orthodontic Rda vs Dental Assistant?

AspectOrthodontic RdaDental Assistant
CertificationsRegistered Dental Assistant (RDA), Orthodontic certificationRDA or DA certification, varies by state
Work EnvironmentSpecialized orthodontic clinics, private practicesGeneral dental offices, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesOrthodontic procedures, appliance adjustments, patient educationAssisting with various dental procedures, sterilization, patient care

Orthodontic Rdas focus on orthodontic procedures and appliances, requiring specialized training and certification. Dental Assistants have broader responsibilities across general dentistry. Both roles are essential in dental practices, but Orthodontic Rdas have a more specialized scope within orthodontics.

Does an orthodontic assistant make more than a dental assistant?

Orthodontic assistants typically earn slightly higher wages than general dental assistants due to specialized training in orthodontic procedures and appliances. However, salaries vary based on experience, location, and certification, with both roles often working in similar clinical environments. Overall, the pay difference is generally modest but reflects the specialized skills involved in orthodontic assisting.

What is an Orthodontic RDA?

An Orthodontic Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) is a dental professional who assists orthodontists in providing care to patients who need braces or other orthodontic appliances. Orthodontic RDAs perform a variety of tasks, including preparing patients for procedures, taking dental impressions, sterilizing instruments, and providing oral hygiene instructions. They work under the supervision of a licensed orthodontist and help ensure that orthodontic treatments run smoothly and efficiently.

What are some common challenges Orthodontic RDAs face when assisting with complex orthodontic procedures?

Orthodontic Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patients with varying treatment plans, ensuring precise bracket placement, and maintaining clear communication between the orthodontist and patients. Staying organized during high-volume clinic days and adapting quickly to last-minute changes in schedules or procedures are also common. Additionally, RDAs must keep up with evolving orthodontic technologies and strict infection control protocols, all while providing a supportive and reassuring environment for patients.
What cities in California are hiring for Orthodontic Rda jobs? Cities in California with the most Orthodontic Rda job openings:
Orthodontic Rda jobs near you
Infographic showing various Orthodontic Rda job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,152 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Orthodontic Registered Dental Assistant - Tuesdays and Thursdays

KidSmiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

We are an established specialty practice looking for an Orthodontic Assistant (OA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) with orthodontic experience to join our team on Tuesdays and Thursdays. As an Orthodontic Dental Assistant, you will provide top-notch dental care that makes our clients feel like family. You will provide assistance to the orthodontist during appointments and complete administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments.  If you’re friendly, outgoing, and committed to creating a fantastic dental experience, we want to hear from you!
Qualities that we are looking for:
-Positive outlook and team player
-Responsible and fun
-Can manage our young patients as well at their parents with ease
-Punctual and prepared
-A team player - always looking to help out in any way possible
-Self starter
Duties
-Removing and changing arch-wires
-Preparation for bonding of braces, delivering appliances, and/or attachments for Invisalign.
-Giving oral hygiene instructions, appliance instructions, and compliance instructions.
-Taking impressions for appliances or iTero element scans for Invisalign.
-Set up trays, break down chairs, sterilization.
Pay range begins at $35+/hour based on experience.
If you think you are the right person for us, we would love to talk to you!
Please email your resume and we will get back to you.

Summary
We are an established specialty practice looking for an Orthodontic Assistant (OA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) with orthodontic experience to join our team. As an Orthodontic Dental Assistant, you will provide top-notch dental care that makes our clients feel like family. You will provide assistance to the orthodontist during appointments and complete administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments.  If you’re friendly, outgoing, and committed to creating a fantastic dental experience, we want to hear from you!