Dental Assistant Careers: Dental Assisting Job Outlook

Dental Assisting Jobs on the Rise

Many trained dental assistants enjoy active chairside or laboratory careers. With outstanding job opportunities predicted for the next decade, you can prepare for this health care field through fast-track diploma programs. If you love caring for people and helping them to smile, today's dental assisting programs can prepare you for an entry-level position in a clinic or private office.

Dental Assistant Career Growth Almost One-Third

Jobs for dental assistants with hands-on training are predicted to grow by 29 percent between 2006 and 2017, adding some 130 thousand new professionals. Duties can include preparing patients for procedures and making them comfortable, taking and preparing X-rays or impressions, recording patient vital signs and diagnostic findings by the dentist, and working in the lab with casts or crowns.

Employers May Help Pay for Continuing Dental Assisting Education

Benefits vary substantially by practice setting and may be contingent upon full-time employment. According to the American Dental Association, 87 percent of dentists offer reimbursement for continuing education courses taken by their assistants.⁽¹⁾

 

Previous studies in health, biology, or chemistry are helpful, though not required, as is familiarity with computers and office/accounting software. Your career training may also include instruction in the use of computer software that processes appointments, procedure records, billing, insurance claims, and office correspondence.