Position
Salary

How much does a Dental Assistant make?

The average salary for a Dental Assistant is $44,966 per year in the US.

A Dental Assistant plays a key role in helping dentists provide care to patients. They prepare patients for treatment, take X-rays, and assist with various dental procedures. The average yearly salary for a Dental Assistant is around $44,966. This means that most Dental Assistants earn between $32,000 and $64,480 each year.

The salary can vary based on several factors. These include the location, experience, and the type of dental practice. For example, Dental Assistants in urban areas often earn more than those in rural areas. Those with more experience or specialized skills can also expect higher pay. Working in a specialized dental practice, such as orthodontics or pediatrics, may also lead to a higher salary. This career offers a stable income and opportunities for growth and advancement.

View Dental Assistant jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant?

Job seekers looking for top-paying dental assistant roles should consider cities like San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Manchester. These cities offer some of the highest average salaries for dental assistants. San Francisco leads with an average salary of $60,000, while Minneapolis and Manchester follow closely behind. Other cities such as Rochester, Seattle, and Santa Rosa also provide competitive wages for dental assistants. These locations ensure that professionals in the field can expect attractive compensation packages. Exploring job opportunities in these cities can lead to both rewarding careers and financial stability.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dental Assistant jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $60,038 and Boston, MA with the lowest at $53,821.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $60,038
    In San Francisco, dental professionals thrive in a bustling environment. With top-tier dental practices like UCSF, job seekers can expect competitive salaries and opportunities for growth. The city's diverse population offers a wide range of experiences.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $58,570
    Minneapolis offers a vibrant job market for dental assistants. Companies like Park Nicollet provide excellent career opportunities. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  3. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $56,259
    Manchester provides a supportive environment for dental assistants. With prominent practices like Dental Associates, job seekers can find stable employment. The city's lower cost of living enhances the quality of life.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Manchester, NH


  4. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $55,835
    Rochester is home to renowned dental practices like Mayo Clinic. Job seekers can expect high standards and opportunities for professional development. The city's strong community spirit is beneficial for career growth.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $55,680
    Seattle offers a dynamic job market for dental assistants. With companies like Swedish Medical Center, job seekers can enjoy a competitive salary and a vibrant work environment. The city's tech-savvy culture adds to the professional experience.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $55,008
    Santa Rosa provides a welcoming environment for dental professionals. With practices like Sutter Health, job seekers can find excellent job opportunities. The city's serene lifestyle complements a rewarding career.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  7. Bend, OR
    Average Salary: $54,805
    Bend offers a peaceful setting for dental assistants. With local practices like Cascade Dental, job seekers can enjoy a balanced work life. The city's outdoor activities provide a great lifestyle balance.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Bend, OR


  8. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $54,620
    San Jose provides a thriving job market for dental assistants. With companies like Kaiser Permanente, job seekers can find excellent career opportunities. The city's tech-driven economy offers a dynamic work environment.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA


  9. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $54,246
    Portland offers a vibrant job market for dental professionals. With practices like Providence Dental, job seekers can find rewarding career opportunities. The city's progressive culture enhances the work experience.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Portland, OR


  10. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $53,821
    Boston provides a rich job market for dental assistants. With renowned practices like Harvard School of Dental Medicine, job seekers can find excellent career opportunities. The city's historical charm adds to the professional experience.
    Find Dental Assistant jobs in Boston, MA

What are the best companies a Dental Assistant can work for?

Dental Assistants can find rewarding positions with top-paying companies. Alameda Health System offers the highest average salary at $74,415. La Clínica and ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES also provide competitive salaries, making them attractive options.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dental Assistant jobs, highlighting Alameda Health System with the highest at $74,415 and Federal Bureau of Prisons with the lowest at $61,722.
  1. Alameda Health System
    Average Salary: $74,415
    Alameda Health System offers rewarding Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They operate in Alameda County, California, providing a range of dental services.


  2. La Clínica
    Average Salary: $67,982
    La Clínica provides Dental Assistant jobs with a strong community focus. They serve patients in California, emphasizing quality care and community health.


  3. ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES
    Average Salary: $67,333
    ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES offers Dental Assistant jobs with a specialization in orthodontic care. They operate in various locations across the United States, focusing on patient comfort and satisfaction.


  4. Health Pros North West
    Average Salary: $66,299
    Health Pros North West provides Dental Assistant jobs with a commitment to professional growth. They serve patients in the Pacific Northwest, offering a supportive work environment.


  5. United States Department of Justice
    Average Salary: $65,520
    The United States Department of Justice offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on public service. They operate nationwide, providing essential dental care to federal employees and their families.


  6. Naphcare, Inc.
    Average Salary: $65,313
    Naphcare, Inc. provides Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on correctional healthcare. They serve patients in various correctional facilities across the United States.


  7. SF Oral Surgery
    Average Salary: $64,000
    SF Oral Surgery offers Dental Assistant jobs with a specialization in oral surgery. They operate in the San Francisco area, providing specialized dental care.


  8. Children & Family Dentistry & Braces
    Average Salary: $63,013
    Children & Family Dentistry & Braces offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on pediatric care. They serve patients in various locations, emphasizing family-friendly dental services.


  9. King County, WA
    Average Salary: $61,773
    King County, WA provides Dental Assistant jobs with a commitment to public health. They operate in King County, Washington, offering a range of dental services to the community.


  10. Federal Bureau of Prisons
    Average Salary: $61,722
    The Federal Bureau of Prisons offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on correctional healthcare. They serve patients in various federal prisons across the United States.

How to earn more as a Dental Assistant?

Dental Assistants play a crucial role in the dental office. They support dentists and ensure smooth operations. Increasing your earning potential in this field requires a combination of skills and dedication. By focusing on certain areas, you can enhance your value and potentially earn more.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Certification: Obtain certification from a recognized body. This adds credibility and shows a commitment to the profession.
  • Specialization: Gain expertise in areas like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry. Specialized skills can command higher pay.
  • Experience: Accumulate years of experience. More experienced assistants often receive higher wages.
  • Education: Pursue additional education or training. Advanced courses can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
  • Networking: Build a strong professional network. Connections can lead to job openings and higher-paying positions.

Currently 7,144 Dental Assistant job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Dental Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Dental Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Dental Assistant today.
Position
Overview
Dental Assistant
7,144 Job Openings