What is a Salary of a Dental Assistant: All You Need to Know

Whenever you make a visit to the dentist, you’ve likely noticed an assistant working behind-the-scenes along with the dentist.

You notice the assistant working tirelessly in the background, preparing instruments, assisting during procedures, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

But here's the question that might be on your mind: How much is the salary of a dental assistant for all that hard work?

The dental assistant profession has seen significant growth in recent years, with more and more people pursuing this career due to its stability, potential for advancement, and quick entry into the industry.

So, if you’re considering a career in this field or simply curious about how much do dental assistants make, we’ve got you covered.

In this post, we'll break down everything you need to know about dental assistant salaries, from entry-level pay to high-paying specialties.

Understanding the Salary of a Dental Assistant

When you're entering a new career, it's only natural to know about the pay scale the role offers. After all, it helps guide decisions on job satisfaction, lifestyle, and career advancement.

As of recent reports by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a dental assistant in the United States was $46,540 in May 2023 . However, that number can vary depending on where you work, your level of experience, and whether you’re certified or not.

Consider this example:

A dental assistant in urban areas might earn more than one working in a smaller town. For example, in states like California, where the cost of living is higher, dental assistants earn significantly more. In fact, according to BLS, California is one of the highest-paying states for dental assistants, with an average salary of $ 52,470/year.

Factors that affect a dental assistant’s salary

• Location

As discussed above, where you live can significantly influence your salary. Cities – especially those in larger states – often offer higher wages to dental assistants due to the higher cost of living and demand for healthcare services.

That’s why dental assistants working in metropolitan cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Chicago may see salaries that are 10-20% higher than those in the countryside.

• Experience

Your experience level plays a big role in how much you earn. A new grad who’s just starting might earn anywhere from $17 to $20 per hour, which estimates to an annual salary of approx. $35,000 to $39,000.

However, with a few years of experience under your belt, you can expect to earn closer to $20-$25 per hour, which adds up to about $40,000 to $50,000 annually.

And if individuals opt for specialized roles like a registered dental assistant (RDA), it often leads to higher wages.

RDAs earn more because they have additional certifications and can take on more responsibilities within the office. These can include tasks like managing patient records, taking X-rays, or assisting in more advanced procedures like oral surgery.

• Certifications

Many dental assistants opt for additional certifications, which can increase their earnings potential. The highest-paid dental assistant salary tends to go to those who have become certified in specialized areas like radiology, orthodontics, or anesthesia.

Another great highlight for beginner dental assistants is they have the option to pursue online courses like Dental Assistant Bootcamps from accredited platforms that allow you to study and work at your own pace, making this an accessible option for many aspiring dental assistants. Not only does this help in gaining the necessary certifications, but it also makes you stand out among other candidates when applying for jobs in high-paying fields.

What’s the minimum wage for a Dental Assistant in US

While most dental assistants earn above the minimum wage, it's worth mentioning that there are some entry-level jobs that may start at or near minimum wage, especially in states with a lower cost of living.

In places like Mississippi, Michigan, and Massachusetts where minimum wage is between $7.25 and $15 per hour, starting pay for dental assistants might be on the lower end.

However, as they gain experience, they can earn between $18 and $22 per hour or more.

Advancement in hourly wages, of course, requires additional certifications or specialized training.

How Much Do Dental Assistants Make an Hour?

If you’re curious about how much does a dental assistant make an hour, the answer depends on experience and location.

The average hourly rate for a dental assistant is around $20 per hour across the U.S.

However, in states like California or New York, dental assistants might earn closer to $25-$30 per hour, with the potential to make more in overtime or weekend shifts.

In larger practices or specialized fields, hourly rates may rise above $30 per hour. For example, a dental assistant working in oral surgery or cosmetic dentistry may see pay rates upwards of $35 per hour.

As for those in high-demand specialties – like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry – can also command higher wages

The Highest-Paid Dental Assistant Jobs

Some dental assistant jobs are more lucrative than others.

The best-paying dental assistant jobs are often those that require specialized skills. For instance, dental assistants who work in oral surgery or orthodontics can expect to earn higher salaries.

Individuals working in private practices also tend to earn more compared to those working in general or public health settings.

Additionally, working as a dental assistant in big cities often come with higher salaries. The demand for dental assistants in urban areas means that employers are often willing to offer competitive pay to attract qualified professionals.

So, if you’re looking for a job with a higher salary, focusing on specialized dental practices, major metropolitan cities could be your best bet.

How Much Does a Dental Assistant Make an Hour?

Now, let’s tackle the aspect of “how much does a dental assistant make an hour”. The answer to this depends on experience and location.

The average hourly rate for a dental assistant is around $20 per hour across the U.S. However, in states like California or New York, dental assistants might earn closer to $25-$30 per hour, with the potential to make more in overtime or weekend shifts.

In larger practices or specialized fields, hourly rates may rise above $30 per hour. For example, a dental assistant working in oral surgery or cosmetic dentistry may see pay rates of $35 or so per hour.

Conclusion

Salary of a dental assistant can be quite rewarding, especially for those who specialize or work in high-demand areas.

While the starting pay may not be much, the potential for growth is pretty big.

With experience and specialized certifications, dental assistants can expect to see their salaries increase over time, offering both financial stability and the opportunity to advance in the field.

As the demand for skilled dental assistants continues to grow, now is the perfect time to invest in your education and build a long-term career.

At Quick Health Certified, we understand the importance of high-quality training and certification in helping you unlock your full earning potential.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to specialize, our affordable, self-paced courses like dental assistant bootcamps are designed to provide you with the necessary skills and certifications needed to thrive in this rewarding profession.

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