Dental Assistant Schools

Dental assistant careers require at least a high school education, although further career training and formal education can be helpful in finding better paying jobs and more available positions to work in. Once education is completed, dental assistants will work in dental offices or hospitals alongside the dentist to provide basic aid to the doctor as well as the patient. The duties of a dental assistant include sterilization, preparation, obtaining and maintaining dental records, helping patients feel comfortable and working to assist the dentist as needed during procedures. Dental assistants are required to be licensed to work in almost every state, although the exact rules and guidelines for licensing may vary from one school to the next. There are different levels of certification to be held, as well, allowing dental assistants to point out their strengths to prospective employers. Salaries for dental assistants average around $32,000 annually, with some professionals earning up to $45,000 or more depending on their skills, experience, and how much education they have received. Where individuals choose to work also plays a large role in the amount of compensation that they receive. Dental assistant careers are projected to grow by about 36% into the year 2018, which is well above the national average for all careers. Those who have the most education and experience will have the best opportunities for career success as a dental assistant.