Dental Assistant Career Outlook
A dental assistant plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of a dental office, providing support to dentists and enhancing patient care. This career is not only rewarding but also offers a stable job outlook and opportunities for advancement. If you are considering a career as a dental assistant, here is a comprehensive look at what to expect, how to get started, and the potential benefits.
What Do Dental Assistants Do?
Dental assistants are involved in a wide range of tasks to assist the dentist and ensure that the dental office operates efficiently. Their responsibilities can vary significantly by state and by the office in which they work, but common tasks include:
- Assisting with Dental Procedures: Dental assistants are often responsible for handing instruments to dentists during procedures, keeping the patient’s mouth dry and clear by using suction hoses, and preparing the work area.
- Patient Care: They help make patients comfortable in the dental chair and prepare them for treatments. They also provide aftercare instructions following surgery or other dental treatment.
- Administrative Duties: Many dental assistants manage front office tasks such as scheduling appointments, handling billing and insurance paperwork, and maintaining patient records.
- Equipment Sterilization: Ensuring all dental tools and equipment are properly sterilized and prepared before each use is another key responsibility.
How to Become a Dental Assistant?
The path to becoming a dental assistant typically involves several steps, which can vary depending on state regulations:
- Education: Most entry-level dental assistant positions require a high school diploma or GED. Many dental assistants complete a diploma, certificate, or associate’s degree program in dental assisting. 90 Day Dental Assistant offers an online course that can be completed in as little as 90 days, to get you into your new career quickly.
- Certification: Some states require dental assistants to be certified. 90 Day Dental Assistant offers an online certification. Gaining certification usually involves passing an exam and completing a certain number of hours of continuing education courses each year to maintain the certification.
- On-the-Job Training: In some cases, dental assistants are trained entirely on the job. This type of training typically involves direct instruction from the dentist or another experienced assistant in the practice.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by ongoing research linking oral health and general health, increasing the demand for preventive dental services. Dental assistants will be needed to complete routine tasks so that dentists can work more efficiently.
Average Salary
Salaries for dental assistants vary based on factors such as geographic location, experience, and whether they are certified. As of May 2022, the median annual wage for dental assistants in the United States was $42,310, according to the BLS. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $59,540.
Required Education
Education requirements for dental assistants vary. While some states require assistants to graduate from an accredited program and pass an exam, others do not have any formal educational requirements, and assistants are trained on the job. Accredited programs typically include both classroom and laboratory work. They cover various aspects of dental assisting, such as dental anatomy, medical ethics, radiology, and practice management.
A career as a dental assistant offers a unique blend of clinical and administrative work, making it ideal for individuals who are organized, enjoy working with people, and are interested in a healthcare career that does not require years of schooling. Whether assisting with dental procedures, managing office operations, or helping patients understand their treatments, dental assistants are integral to the dental care team.