Salary of a Dental Assistant
A dental assistant salary is based upon education and experience as well as geographical location. The mean annual wages for doing assistant work according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is approximately $34,410 per year. The lowest 10% of dental assistants earned approximately $22,680 per year. The 90th percentile of dental assistants earned $47,000 per year.
Dental assistants perform a variety of duties within the dental office such as patient care and dental laboratories. The main duties of a dental assistant include updating dental records, disinfecting, sterilizing, and laying out prepared materials and instruments used by the dentist for treatment.
During a dental procedure, the dental assistant assist the dentist by handing materials and instruments to the dentist and keeping the patient's mouth dry with suction. Dental assistants may also process x-rays, use impressions to make casts of the mouth and teeth, and deliver aftercare to the patient. In addition, dental assistants schedule appointments, and perform basic accounting activities and ordered dental supplies when needed.
Dental assistants attend school to learn the trade. Most attend a vocational school for a period of about a year. In addition, dental assistants must also complete an exam for licensure prior to working within the field of dentistry. Training continues on the job as the new dental assistant gains experience. Specialization within the field often commands higher rate of pay. Specialization within the field may include orthodontic and pediatric dental care. Different levels of certifications are needed for each specialization acquired.
Geographical location plays a part in a dental assistant salary as some parts of the country have a higher rate of living than others that is directly reflected in pay scale. For example California has a higher rate of living than Missouri. This means that a dental assistant living in California will make more money for the same job as a dental assistant in Missouri based solely upon the cost of living per annum.
Each state may require different levels of education and licensure exams to ensure skills are learned in the dental assistants are ready to work with patients.
Dental assistants were once considered confessional settings as a member of the healthcare team to improve quality of life of patients. Most were content offices, although there are some employed and universities and professional schools.
Dental assistants are always in demand. Choosing to study and become a dental assistant will ensure a marketable amount of skills and a respectible way of life.
Being a Dental Assistant is a great career choice. The cost of training is relatively low and employment is in high demand. Increase your earning potential by bring home a highly respected Dental Assistant Salary. To find out more about becoming a dental assistant, please visit: =>http://www.getfreedental.com/dentalassistantsalary.htm
