How much does a Dental Assistant make?
Dental Assistants play a vital role in the dental office. They help dentists and hygienists during procedures. It’s a rewarding job. The average yearly salary for a Dental Assistant is $45,928. This means they earn about $22 per hour.
The salary can vary based on experience and location. Many Dental Assistants start with a lower salary. As they gain more experience, they can earn more. Here are the salary ranges based on experience:
- First 10% earn about $32,000
- Next 9.44% earn around $35,091
- Next 12.71% earn about $38,182
- Next 16.24% earn around $41,273
- Next 14.73% earn about $44,364
- Next 13.24% earn around $47,455
- Next 7.92% earn about $50,545
- Next 6.55% earn around $53,636
- Next 3.05% earn about $56,727
- Next 3.32% earn around $59,818
- Top 2.31% earn about $62,909 and up
Job seekers can find good opportunities in this field. With training and experience, a Dental Assistant can look forward to a stable and potentially rewarding career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant?

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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $61,706
In Minneapolis, dental assistants find work in various dental practices. Many professionals work in well-known clinics like Park Nicollet and All Smiles Dental Care. Job opportunities often include good benefits and a supportive work environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $61,097
Working as a dental assistant in San Francisco offers the chance to be part of leading dental firms. Companies like San Francisco Smile Studio and the Dental Wellness Center provide modern facilities and a chance to work with top-notch technology.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $57,913
Rochester boasts several prominent dental practices where assistants can find rewarding positions. Working here means you can join well-established clinics like Mayo Clinic Dental Services, which are known for their patient care and technology.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $57,717
In Seattle, dental assistants join a bustling dental community. They work in cutting-edge practices such as Seattle Smile Design and North Seattle Dental Care. The city’s vibrant culture offers a dynamic work environment.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $56,629
Manchester is home to many reputable dental clinics where assistants thrive. At places like Manchester Dental Group and Greater New Hampshire Dental Associates, professionals gain experience with a variety of dental procedures.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $56,471
Santa Rosa offers a friendly work atmosphere for dental assistants. Many work at well-regarded clinics like Sonoma County Dental Group and Redwood Family Dental. The city's small-town feel complements a pleasant work environment.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $56,267
Portland provides a unique mix of work and lifestyle for dental assistants. They join practices like Portland Dental Wellness and River Dental Group, which emphasize patient care and advanced dental practices.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $56,116
In Bend, dental assistants enjoy working in a welcoming community. They can find positions in well-established practices such as Bend Dental Group and The Dentist Bend. The area's natural beauty adds to the quality of life.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $56,108
San Jose offers many opportunities for dental assistants in both urban and suburban settings. Professionals work at clinics like San Jose Smile Studio and The Dentist San Jose, which utilize modern technology and practices.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $55,598
Boston’s rich history and vibrant culture provide a dynamic work environment for dental assistants. They join prestigious dental practices such as Boston Dental Group and Tufts Dental Faculty. The city’s educational institutions offer continual learning opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Dental Assistant can work for?

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La Clínica
Average Salary: $70,033
La Clínica offers rewarding Dental Assistant positions with competitive salaries. They operate various locations in California. Their clinics provide a friendly work environment with a focus on community health.
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Health Pros North West
Average Salary: $69,269
Health Pros North West is a top choice for Dental Assistants looking for good pay and career growth. They have offices in Washington and Oregon. This company values teamwork and professional development.
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San Ysidro Health
Average Salary: $64,841
San Ysidro Health provides excellent opportunities for Dental Assistants in Southern California. Their work emphasizes patient care and health education. They offer a supportive environment for career advancement.
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Neighborhood Healthcare
Average Salary: $64,244
Neighborhood Healthcare offers competitive salaries for Dental Assistants in Southern California. They focus on providing high-quality care in a community-oriented setting. Their locations are conveniently spread across the region.
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Willamette Dental
Average Salary: $63,737
Willamette Dental provides rewarding positions for Dental Assistants in Oregon. They are known for their supportive staff and commitment to patient care. Locations are conveniently spread throughout the state.
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Dental Connections
Average Salary: $63,682
Dental Connections offers competitive Dental Assistant salaries in Oregon and Washington. They emphasize teamwork and professional growth. Their offices are well-equipped, and they provide ongoing training.
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Oregon Health & Science University
Average Salary: $63,585
Oregon Health & Science University provides excellent opportunities for Dental Assistants in Oregon. They focus on research and patient care. They offer a dynamic work environment with many learning opportunities.
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Studio Z Dental
Average Salary: $63,333
Studio Z Dental offers good pay for Dental Assistants in Oregon. They value a friendly work environment and patient care. They have convenient locations throughout the state.
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Federal Bureau of Prisons
Average Salary: $62,934
The Federal Bureau of Prisons offers rewarding opportunities for Dental Assistants across the country. They provide competitive salaries and a supportive work environment. This is a great choice for those seeking federal employment.
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Community Dental Care
Average Salary: $62,706
Community Dental Care provides good pay for Dental Assistants in Washington. They focus on patient care and community service. Their offices are well-equipped, and they offer a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Dental Assistant?
Becoming a Dental Assistant opens many career paths. Earning more requires dedication and skill. Consider these key factors to increase your earning potential.
First, gaining certifications can make a big difference. Dental assistants with specialized certifications often earn more. Certifications in areas like radiology or infection control can set you apart. They show that you have extra skills and knowledge. This makes you more valuable to employers.
Second, seeking additional training is also important. Many dental assistants take courses in advanced procedures. These courses can lead to higher-paying jobs. Learning new techniques can help you do your job better. This often leads to higher pay.
Look for opportunities to advance in your career. Moving into a lead role can increase your salary. Lead dental assistants oversee other staff. They also manage patient care. This higher level of responsibility often comes with higher pay.
- Get certified: Certifications in radiology or infection control can increase pay.
- Take extra training: Courses in advanced procedures can lead to higher-paying jobs.
- Advance in your career: Moving into a lead role can increase salary and responsibilities.
- Consider specialty areas: Working in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay.
- Gain experience: More experience can lead to higher positions and salaries.
In summary, earning more as a Dental Assistant involves gaining certifications, taking extra training, and advancing in your career. Consider these steps to increase your earning potential today.



