In today’s economy, satisfying careers that are still in demand with job security may seem elusive, but the job outlook for dental assistants has never been better. With an increasing need for dental procedures, treatments, and preventative care, dental offices are in need of qualified dental assistants to help meet the demand in their practices. Dental assistants are essential members of the team. If you are ready to make a move, you can become a dental assistant in under a year.Close up of a female dental assistant wearing a surgical mask and blue gloves.

Demand for Dental Assistants is Increasing

The demand for dental assistants has increased dramatically over the past ten years, and over the next ten years dental assistants are still projected to have an additional 7% growth. Every year there are over 50,000 projected openings for trained dental assistants.

While some of these openings are from those leaving the field for retirement or new careers, the demand is also increasing due to the aging population and a demand for regular dental care and ongoing dental procedures. With an increased emphasis on preventative care and an expanding scope of dental services available, more dental assistants are needed.

For those looking to change careers, this increased demand for dental assistants means that job opportunities will be available when they are ready to enter this field. Rather than worrying about what will happen after they finish the training program and taking any job they can get, they can focus on finding a job that is the right fit. No matter what state the economy is in, people are still visiting the dentist, and as the population grows, so does the need for qualified dental staff.

Opportunities to Grow and Advance in the Dental Field

While the demand for dental assistants is high, some of that is because there is a lot of room for advancement, with many dental assistants moving into new roles in the dental field. Dental assistants can get additional training and certification to work as oral surgery assistants and orthodontic assistants. With additional certifications, dental assistants can perform more procedures. Some use this as a jumping off point to become dental hygienists, work in dental sales or marketing, or to become dental assistant instructors. Many dental offices are invested in ongoing training for their dental assistants and will support team members who are looking to advance in their career.

Benefits of Dental Assisting

Beyond the job security benefit, there are many advantages to becoming a dental assistant. Dental assistants have a variety of tasks to do throughout the day, ensuring that no two days will be the same. Each day, the needs of the office will change. One day, you may be assisting with room set-up, getting patients settled, and sterilizing the equipment, and then you will move into another room to help the dentist with a complex procedure, anticipating needs, keeping the patient calm, and ensuring the procedure runs smoothly. Then you may move on to administrative tasks where you’ll help update charts, schedule appointments, and assist with tracking inventory before going to take x-rays for a new patient. With such a wide range of duties, you will never be bored.

Dental assistants have the advantage of working a regular schedule. While there is some flexibility, as many dental offices are extending their operating hours, in general you will have a very predictable schedule that is made up of 8-hour days on weekdays. Unlike other jobs in the medical field, it is unlikely you will need to work nights and weekends. This allows for a great work/life balance. You will also enjoy great compensation for your work. Dental assistants make an average of $20-25/hr, with plenty of room for growth.

Becoming a Dental Assistant

The training to become a dental assistant is very manageable, even for busy adults juggling jobs and families. Many dental assistant training schools offer flexible schedules and financing options that make going back to school accessible for anyone who is interested. All you need to be eligible for dental assistant training is a high school diploma or GED and a willingness to learn.

When you are choosing a school for your dental assisting training, look for a program that has these key factors:

  • Hands-on Training
  • Partnerships with Local Dental Practices
  • Job Placement Assistance

Dental assistants are always in demand, but picking a school that focuses on giving you hands-on experience with real patients can make a big difference when you’re starting your career. Good dental schools often have partnerships with local practices, giving you valuable externship opportunities. These connections can be a big help, and you might even land your first job because of them.

At South Florida Dental Assisting School, we understand the importance of real-world experience in preparing for a successful career. Our strong partnerships with local dental practices provide valuable externship opportunities that can give you a competitive edge. By choosing our school, you’ll not only gain the skills you need but also benefit from our network of connections, which can help you land your first job and kickstart your career in dental assisting. Contact us today.