How much does a Dental Assistant make?
A Dental Assistant plays a key role in a dental office. They help dentists during procedures and ensure patients are comfortable. The average yearly salary for a Dental Assistant is around $45,301. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of dental practice.
Most Dental Assistants earn between $38,000 and $50,000 per year. The top 10% of earners can make more than $56,000 annually. This range shows that with experience and additional training, Dental Assistants can increase their earnings. Some Dental Assistants also receive benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. These extras can make the job even more rewarding.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $60,436
In San Francisco, dental professionals enjoy a vibrant work environment. Many clinics offer competitive pay and benefits. Notable companies include UCSF Dental Center and Smile California.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $59,910
Minneapolis provides a stable job market for dental assistants. The city's clinics offer modern facilities and good benefits. Companies like Park Nicollet Dental and Allina Health are prominent employers.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $56,260
Manchester offers a friendly work environment for dental assistants. The city's clinics focus on patient care and team support. Key employers include Catholic Medical Center and Smiles Dental Care.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $56,206
Rochester is known for its high-quality dental care. Assistants here benefit from a supportive work culture. Mayo Clinic and Rochester Dental Group are leading employers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $56,090
Seattle provides a dynamic work environment for dental professionals. The city's clinics emphasize innovation and patient care. Notable employers include Seattle Children's Hospital and Swedish Medical Center.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $55,325
Bend offers a peaceful work environment with a strong community focus. Dental assistants here enjoy a good work-life balance. Key employers include Bend Memorial Clinic and Cascade Dental.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $55,150
Santa Rosa provides a welcoming environment for dental professionals. The city's clinics focus on quality care and team support. Notable employers include Kaiser Permanente and Santa Rosa Dental Group.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $54,830
San Jose offers a vibrant job market for dental assistants. The city's clinics provide modern facilities and good benefits. Key employers include Stanford Children's Health and Kaiser Permanente.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $54,402
Portland provides a progressive work environment for dental professionals. The city's clinics emphasize patient care and team support. Notable employers include Providence Dental and Kaiser Permanente.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,215
Boston offers a rich job market for dental assistants. The city's clinics provide excellent opportunities for professional growth. Key employers include Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Tufts Dental Center.
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What are the best companies a Dental Assistant can work for?

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Delaware Valley Community Health
Average Salary: $80,424
Delaware Valley Community Health offers rewarding Dental Assistant jobs. They operate in Pennsylvania and Delaware. They focus on providing quality care to underserved communities. Their team-oriented environment supports professional growth.
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Alameda Health System
Average Salary: $74,415
Alameda Health System provides excellent opportunities for Dental Assistants. They serve in California. They emphasize patient care and teamwork. Their facilities are well-equipped, and they offer various benefits.
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CAMBAY CONSULTING
Average Salary: $74,270
CAMBAY CONSULTING offers competitive Dental Assistant positions. They work across multiple locations. They focus on providing top-notch dental services. Their dynamic work environment encourages skill development.
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ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES
Average Salary: $73,436
ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES provides rewarding Dental Assistant jobs. They operate in several states. They specialize in orthodontic care. Their supportive team environment helps in professional growth.
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La Clínica
Average Salary: $68,548
La Clínica offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on community health. They serve in California. They provide comprehensive care to diverse populations. Their commitment to patient care is strong.
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Health Pros North West
Average Salary: $66,926
Health Pros North West provides Dental Assistant positions with a focus on patient care. They operate in Washington and Oregon. They offer a supportive work environment. Their facilities are modern and well-equipped.
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Children & Family Dentistry & Braces
Average Salary: $62,853
Children & Family Dentistry & Braces offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on pediatric care. They serve in multiple locations. They provide a friendly and supportive work environment. Their facilities are designed for children.
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SAC Health
Average Salary: $62,268
SAC Health provides Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on community health. They operate in California. They offer comprehensive care to underserved populations. Their supportive team environment helps in professional growth.
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King County, WA
Average Salary: $62,111
King County, WA offers Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on public health. They serve in Washington. They provide quality care to the community. Their facilities are well-equipped, and they offer various benefits.
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Studio Z Dental
Average Salary: $61,571
Studio Z Dental provides Dental Assistant jobs with a focus on patient care. They serve in California. They offer a supportive work environment. Their facilities are modern and well-equipped.
How to earn more as a Dental Assistant?
Dental Assistants play a key role in the smooth operation of a dental office. They can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. These efforts not only improve job satisfaction but also lead to higher pay. One way to earn more is by gaining additional certifications. These can include specialties like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry. Another way is to seek out positions in high-demand areas. Urban centers often offer higher wages than rural areas. Continuing education is also important. Attending workshops and seminars can keep skills sharp and up-to-date. Networking with other professionals can open doors to better job opportunities. Finally, taking on leadership roles within the office can lead to higher pay. This might involve supervising other assistants or managing office tasks.
Investing in these areas shows a commitment to the profession. It can lead to higher earning potential. Dental Assistants who take these steps can find themselves in more rewarding and better-paying positions. This proactive approach benefits both the individual and the dental practice they work for.
Consider these factors to increase earnings:
- Obtain additional certifications
- Seek positions in high-demand areas
- Attend continuing education programs
- Network with other professionals
- Take on leadership roles