Sandra Cowan
Nashua,NH
Summary
Orthodontic assistant with DANB certification and over 25 years of diverse experience in orthodontics, oral surgery, and restorative dentistry. Skilled in patient care and education, with a strong command of radiographic techniques. Focused on detail and dedicated to implementing advanced dental technologies for optimal patient results.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Certified Orthodontic Assistant/Dental Assistant
Sugarbug Family Dental
Chelmsford, MA
07.2024 - Current
- Carry out daily operations in a fast-paced environment with accuracy and efficiency.
- Proficient in taking radiographs, including intraoral, panoramic, and cephalometric images, Itero digital scans, intraoral and extraoral diagnostic photographs, alginate, and PVS impressions.
- Prepare patients, and assist the orthodontist in the placement of brackets and the cementation of fixed appliances.
- Work independently, placing and tying in archwires for patients' ongoing orthodontic treatment according to the doctor's specifications.
- Fit molar bands, take alginate impressions for palate expanders, fit and adjust Hawley and Essix-style retainers, and nightguards.
- Create 3D scans with the Itero digital scanner for Invisalign treatment, fixed and removable appliances, and crowns.
- Performed chairside duties, including preparation of trays and assisting in four-handed dentistry.
- Instruct patients and parents on home care of appliances, elastic wear, hygiene, and orthodontic emergencies.
- Coordinated appointments and follow-ups for ongoing orthodontic and dental care.
Oral Surgery Assistant
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
Nashua/Bedford, NH
01.2023 - 07.2024
- Assisted surgeons during complex oral surgical procedures, including wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants, surgical exposures, biopsies, and bone grafting.
- Monitored vital signs and anesthesia/sedation equipment during complex dental procedures.
- Surgical field sterilization and infection control (OSHA/HIPAA compliance).
- Managed patient anxiety and provided pre/post operative education.
- Conducted post operative follow-up calls to monitor patient recovery status and ensure adherence to aftercare instructions.
- Maintained up-to-date and HIPPA compliant medical records.
Certified Orthodontic Assistant
Pediatric Dental Associates
Winchester, MA
01.2002 - 12.2023
- Prepared patients for the placement of brackets and bands by the orthodontist, and assisted in band and bracket placement.
- Obtained diagnostic records prior to the start of patient treatment.
- Created intraoral Itero scans, took PVS impressions, and placed attachments for Invisalign treatment.
- Fit and adjusted removable appliances, including Hawley and Essix retainers, cervical and reverse-pull headgear, and instructed patients on appliance and elastic wear.
- Fit molar bands. Placed archwires, ligature ties, k-hooks, and pontics.
- Poured stone models and completed prescriptions for fixed and removable appliances.
- Fabricated Essix retainers and athletic mouthguards.
- Worked with suppliers directly, ordering, maintaining, and stocking all orthodontic supplies.
- Liaison with the lab responsible for scheduling and tracking appliance delivery and pickup.
Front Desk Receptionist
Russell Hill Dental
Winchester, MA
06.1999 - 06.2012
- Coordinated front desk operations and diligently helped all patients and callers with knowledgeable assistance.
- Scheduled routine dental appointments for patients using Dentrix.
- Answered and managed incoming calls and emails.
Orthodontic Assistant
Tracy Patterson, DDS
Lexington, MA
07.1999 - 01.2002
- Worked independently on patients placing and tying in archwires.
- Took alginate impressions for study models, fixed, and removeable appliances.
- Assisted orthodontics and prepared patients for bandind and bonding procedures.
- Obtained diagnostic records, including diagnostic photos and panoramic and cephalometric x-rays.
Education
Dental Assisting
Minuteman Career & Technical School
Lexington, MA06.1999
Skills
- DANB certified orthodontic assistant
- Registered dental assistant, MA
- Radiology certification
- CPR and BLS certified
- Dentrix and Dolphin software proficiency
- ITERO intraoral scanner expertise
Timeline
Certified Orthodontic Assistant/Dental Assistant
Sugarbug Family Dental
07.2024 - Current
Oral Surgery Assistant
Apex Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
01.2023 - 07.2024
Certified Orthodontic Assistant
Pediatric Dental Associates
01.2002 - 12.2023
Orthodontic Assistant
Tracy Patterson, DDS
07.1999 - 01.2002
Front Desk Receptionist
Russell Hill Dental
06.1999 - 06.2012
Dental Assisting
Minuteman Career & Technical School