If you are considering a career as a dental assistant, or any career for that matter, one of the first questions that comes to mind is salary. It helps you understand whether you will be able to sustain a desired lifestyle.
Becoming a dental assistant is a rewarding career choice in terms of growing opportunities, job security, and even a competitive salary of $20,000 to $150,000 a year.
Let’s find out how much dental assistants make and what affects their salary.
Dental Assistant Salary: Hourly and Annually
Dental assistants, compared to other support roles in healthcare, earn a really good income.
Hourly pay usually falls between $18 and $27. Experienced dental assistants, especially those with over 25 years of experience, can make up to $30 per hour or more.
Overall, full-time dental assistants can make anywhere from $20,000 to $150,000 a year, depending on their experience, location, type of facility, certifications, etc. We will discuss this in detail later.
Key Factors Affecting Salary
Read below to find out the key factors affecting dental assistants’ salaries:
1. Experience
The first thing that really matters in determining salary as a dental assistant is your experience. Assistants with many years, sometimes decades, of experience often earn the highest salaries, compared to those who have just started their careers.
2. Location
Dental assistant average salaries may vary based on the state and city. Places like California, New York, and New Jersey usually pay more, but the cost of living there is also higher, so it can balance out. However, if you are practicing in a rural or low-cost area, you might get paid relatively less.
3. Type of Facility
Dental assistants who work in government clinics or specialty offices (like orthodontics or oral surgery) often make more money than those working in general dental offices.
4. Certifications and Skills
Having extra certifications, such as taking X-rays or infection control, can help you earn more. These show you have special skills that are valuable to employers. If you don’t have any special certifications, your salary can be compromised.
5. Full-Time vs. Part-Time
Lastly, full-time jobs usually pay more overall and come with benefits like health insurance and chances for overtime. Part-time jobs may have lower total pay and fewer benefits.
Is Dental Assistance a Good Career Choice?
Yes, dental assisting is a good career choice. If you want an entry in the healthcare sector, especially dentist-related work, a dental assistant can be a great option. The job offers good pay, job security, and chances to grow.
In the U.S., dental assistants earn more than many other healthcare support workers. The demand for dental assistants is also growing. That means it’s easier to land a job in this sector.
Overall Insight
A dental assistant is a booming career choice. It offers an entry in the healthcare field, growth opportunities, and a competitive salary, too. On average, dental assistants make $20,000 to $150,000 a year, depending on their experience, location, certifications, and the nature of their job. Hourly pay scales between $18 and $27.
If you are considering a dental career, taking specialized courses can help. Infuse Dental Assistant School offers comprehensive dental assistant courses. Call us at (219) 224-6467 to kickstart your career.