Jobs in healthcare get a lot of attention as quality career options with a stable outlook, and a career in dental assisting offers many benefits. Dental assistants make a decent salary, have excellent job security, and plenty of opportunity for advancement with additional training. Becoming a dental assistant can be done fairly quickly and without taking on a lot of debt. After completing a dental assistant training program, you will likely get a job quickly-a jump start into your new career.

Senior Man Looking At The Mirror And Smiling After Checkup At Dentist

What Do Dental Assistants Do?

Dental assistants are different than dental hygienists, which is what many people think of when they think about professionals in a dental office. Dental assistants have a variety of tasks, including preparing the dental rooms for patients, stocking supplies, preparing charts, taking X-rays, and scheduling appointments. A dental assistant will usually greet the patients, ensure their comfort, and assist the dentist during procedures. Unlike hygienists, they are not responsible for examining patients, cleaning teeth, or providing dental care.  

How Do You Become a Dental Assistant?

Dental assistant training will vary slightly from school to school. Some programs can be completed in as little as 12 weeks and are very affordable. During the training program, you will have classes as well as labs to develop clinical skills, and will learn everything you need to know to work as a dental assistant. Classes and clinics include dental anatomy and physiology, dental charting, sterilization and infection control, dental X-ray techniques, instrumentation, dental materials, and clinical procedures. The curriculum will be comprehensive enough to prepare you for any skill you will need in your work as a dental assistant. After you have completed the training program and externship, job placement assistance is available. Dental assisting school graduates will benefit from the relationships of the program to the local dental community. Many dental assistant graduates will receive immediate job offers after completing the program. 

What is the Job Outlook for Dental Assistants?

Dental assisting, as a career, is projected to grow 11 percent in the next ten years, which is faster than the average for career growth. About 44,000 openings for dental assistants are projected each year. Those openings will come from growth in the industry as the population ages, as well as the need to replace workers who move on in the labor market or retire. The median annual pay in 2021 was $38,660, with dental assistants able to work a regular schedule. Dental and medical assistants have a similar salary and job outlook, with dental assistants coming in at a slightly higher salary. Other technician jobs in the medical and dental fields make a similar salary and have similar job security.  

Working in a dental office is incredibly rewarding. You will get the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your patients and do interesting tasks every day. Not only will you make a good living, but you will have excellent job security and will always be in demand. If you are looking for a new career that you can begin with quick training and not a lot of expenses, dental assisting is a great choice for you. Contact South Florida Dental Assisting School to learn more about how to enroll.