CCOAK study plan

Define and correctly spell the core orthodontic vocabulary (overjet, overbite, Class I/II/III, crowding, spacing, impaction, anchorage) and use each term in a written sentence

Label a hand-drawn diagram of the permanent dentition with tooth names, FDI and Universal numbers, and eruption timing windows

Explain the three planes of space and describe how each type of tooth movement (tipping, translation, rotation, intrusion, extrusion) differs mechanically

Summarize how force magnitude, duration, and center of resistance determine the biologic response of the periodontal ligament

Trace the stages of the four-handed technique and identify the assistant's role at each stage of a bonding appointment

Practice the four instrument-transfer grips (pen, palm, reversed-pen, cotton-forceps) until transfers are silent and without eye contact

Map a full bonding sequence from cheek retractor placement to light-cure, listing each instrument in order of use

Demonstrate anticipatory passing by predicting the next instrument from the procedure step alone

Describe etchant, primer, and adhesive chemistry and state the working time and contamination rules for each

Compare direct-bond versus banded molar setups and list indications for each

Set up a complete bonding tray and a complete banding tray from memory, checking each item against a written list

Explain moisture control, isolation, and saliva-contamination recovery steps during adhesive placement

Classify instruments and surfaces by Spaulding category and match each to the correct reprocessing method

Sequence the sterilization workflow from chairside pre-cleaning through pouching, autoclave cycle, and storage

State the correct handling of handpieces, burs, photographic mirrors, and light-cure shields

Identify common sterilization failures (improper pouch loading, overloaded chamber, wet packs) and their corrective actions

Match archwire alloy, dimension, and cross-section (round vs rectangular, NiTi vs stainless) to clinical objectives

Describe wire insertion, ligation, cinching, and removal steps including safety for the patient's eyes and soft tissue

List the common auxiliaries (separators, elastomeric chains, coil springs, hooks, bite turbos) with their purpose and care instructions

Explain how elastomeric force decays over time and what that means for recall intervals

Sequence a complete records appointment: photos, radiographs, impressions, and intraoral scan, with the rationale for each

Describe impression material mixing, tray selection, seating, and pour-up, and list causes of common voids or distortion

Outline intraoral scanning workflow including retraction, scan-path strategy, and artifact troubleshooting

Build a patient oral-hygiene teaching script covering brushing around brackets, flossing aids, and diet compliance

List the urgent scenarios (loose band, poking wire, broken bracket, swallowed or aspirated component, trauma) with the first chairside action for each

Demonstrate or describe safe wire trimming, placement of relief wax, and temporary repair steps within scope of practice

Distinguish tasks that may be delegated to an orthodontic assistant from those reserved for the licensed dentist

Apply informed-consent and confidentiality principles to records handling and patient communication scenarios

Re-quiz every domain using missed-item review and re-teach the three weakest areas from your own notes

Complete two full timed practice sets under exam conditions and score them by domain

Review all weekly deliverables for gaps and correct any factual errors found

Write a final one-page summary of high-risk facts (sterilization timing, adhesive steps, emergency actions, scope limits)