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Dental Assistant Jobs in US are often confused for dental hygienists, but they are two different roles. While dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning and examining the teeth and gums and reporting the findings to the dentist, dental assistants are more concerned with preparation of the patient, equipment, and instruments. Let's take a closer look at what they do, and how you can get a job as one. Dental Assistant jobs play a very important role in any dental practice. In addition to readying the patient for treatment, the dental assistant may also process x-rays, apply topical anesthetic, and insert or remove equipment or materials from the patient’s mouth as needed. Dental assistants also assist dentists during procedures or surgery, by handing them instruments, or applying suction or rinse. How to Qualify for Dental Assistant Jobs in US Unlike dental hygienists, there is no officially required associate degree or bachelor's program required for Dental Assistant jobs. However, there are programs available for those who wish to learn the necessary skills and basic knowledge needed for a career as a dental assistant. There are three options - a one-year certificate or diploma training program, or a two-year associate's degree in community or technical college, (after graduating high school), or via on-the-job training. On the job training for all new Dental Assistant jobs in US would be conducted by the dentist and other dental staff, regarding processes and procedures in the office, patient flow, etc. Check out the available positions in your area at www.careermkt.com. Licensing and Certification for Dental Assistant Jobs Most states regulate Dental Assistant jobs in US and some states require a license or certification which typically entails successful completion of an accredited dental assisting program, and a certification exam. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the credential of CDA, Certified Dental Assistant, is recognized in 37 states, and is administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). What's to Like and What's Not to Like About Dental Assistant Jobs One drawback of Dental Assistant jobs in US is the lack of advancement opportunities. Many dental assistants enter the profession as a stepping stone for a more advanced career in dentistry or healthcare in general. The plus side of Dental Assistant jobs is that the job outlook is strong, and jobs should be relatively plentiful. (The BLS predicts "much faster than average growth" of 36 percent, from 2008-2018.) Additionally, as health careers go, the training and education requirements are relatively minimal. Another positive about Dental Assistant jobs in US is the schedule - no nights, no weekends, and flexibility to work part- or full-time depending on the employer's needs. Dental Assistant jobs Salary According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for dental assistants is $32,380 per year. The top ten percent of all dental assistants earn up to $46,150. These are fairly attractive salaries considering that no college degree is required. Also per the BLS data, there were about 300,000 Dental Assistant jobs in US nationwide, as of 2008, which is the most recent data available as of late 2011. About 93 percent of these Dental Assistant jobs work in a dental office. The BLS projects that by 2018 there will be a total of 400,000 dental assistants working nationwide
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