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Dental Assistant

Dental assistants support dentists during procedures, take X-rays, and help patients feel at ease. Short training and steady demand make it a smart first healthcare job.

Median Salary
$48,070/yr
Typical Range
$37,130 – $62,250
Job Outlook
Faster than average

What does a Dental Assistant do?

  • Prepare patients and instruments for procedures
  • Assist the dentist chairside
  • Take and process dental X-rays
  • Teach patients about oral care

Education & training

High school diploma plus a dental assisting program (about 1 year)

How to become a Dental Assistant

  1. Graduate high school
  2. Complete an accredited dental assisting program
  3. Earn state certification or the DANB CDA credential
  4. Apply at dental offices

Skills that help

Steady handsPeople skillsOrganizationAttention to detail

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National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer, and experience.

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