How to Become a Dental Assistant

Dental assistants work side-by-side with dentists to support all of the processes of a dental office. Duties include keeping records, setting up equipment and helping with patient procedures. Aspiring dental assistants can receive training and education through multiple venues. As with other trade skills, on-the-job training is widely available for would-be dental assistants. Formal degrees and certification programs are also accessible through community colleges, vocational schools and universities.

Dental Assistant Salaries

The dental assistant salary is contingent upon several factors, significantly reliant on both experience and qualifications. May 2008 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides some benchmark dental assistant salary figures to gauge overall expectations:

• Median annual wages measured in at $32,380
• The middle 50 percent of dental assistants earn between $26,980 and $38,960 per year
• The top 10 percent of dental assistants earn over $46,150 per year

Dental Assistant Schools and Colleges

How do I find the right dental assistant school?

The best dental assistant school is the school that not only fits your schedule and budget, but also provides the best education. Start by identifying schools that have received accreditation from a nationally recognized accreditation service agency. Some easy to sight aspects of reputable schools include the school’s name and status, the school’s history, teachers’ credentials, and the network of alumni.