How much does a Dental Assistant make?
Dental Assistants play a vital role in the dental office. They help dentists during procedures and ensure patients are comfortable. The average yearly salary for a Dental Assistant is $45,359. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for Dental Assistants can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $32,000 per year. The highest 10% earn around $65,000. Most Dental Assistants fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $38,000 and $56,000. This range shows that with experience and skill, there is potential for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Assistant?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $60,639
In San Francisco, dental professionals can find work in modern clinics and large dental practices. Companies like UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente offer opportunities. The city's high cost of living is offset by competitive salaries.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $60,150
Minneapolis provides a range of dental jobs in both private practices and large healthcare systems. Employers like Park Nicollet and HealthPartners are known for their quality care. The city offers a good balance of professional opportunities and a high quality of life.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $56,461
Rochester, home to the renowned Mayo Clinic, offers many dental positions. Working here means access to cutting-edge technology and a strong professional network. The city's family-friendly environment adds to its appeal.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $56,306
Seattle's dental field includes jobs in both private and public sectors. Companies like Swedish Medical Center and Virginia Mason offer excellent career opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $56,052
Manchester provides a variety of dental jobs in both private practices and larger healthcare institutions. Employers like Catholic Medical Center and Elliot Hospital offer stable positions. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Manchester, NH
-
Bend, OR
Average Salary: $55,369
Bend offers a mix of dental jobs in both private and public sectors. The outdoor lifestyle is a big draw, with many opportunities for recreation. Companies like St. Charles Health System provide good career prospects.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Bend, OR
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $55,106
Santa Rosa offers a range of dental positions in both private and public sectors. The city's wine country setting provides a unique lifestyle. Employers like Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health offer solid career opportunities.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $54,885
San Jose provides many dental jobs in tech-driven healthcare settings. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Stanford Health Care offer innovative opportunities. The city's vibrant tech scene adds to its appeal.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $54,494
Portland offers a variety of dental jobs in both private and public sectors. The city's progressive environment and outdoor activities make it a great place to work. Employers like Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health offer good career opportunities.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Portland, OR
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,447
Boston offers many dental jobs in prestigious healthcare institutions. Companies like Massachusetts General Hospital and Tufts Medical Center provide excellent career opportunities. The city's rich history and educational institutions add to its allure.
Find Dental Assistant jobs in Boston, MA
What are the best companies a Dental Assistant can work for?

-
Children's National Hospital
Average Salary: $75,441
Children's National Hospital offers rewarding Dental Assistant jobs. They provide excellent benefits and training. This hospital operates in Washington, D.C., and nearby areas.
-
Alameda Health System
Average Salary: $74,415
Alameda Health System provides competitive salaries for Dental Assistants. They focus on patient care and professional growth. This system operates in Alameda County, California.
-
CAMBAY CONSULTING
Average Salary: $74,270
CAMBAY CONSULTING offers high-paying Dental Assistant positions. They emphasize teamwork and career advancement. This company operates nationwide.
-
La Clínica
Average Salary: $68,242
La Clínica provides good salaries for Dental Assistants. They focus on community health and patient care. This organization operates in California.
-
Health Pros North West
Average Salary: $67,158
Health Pros North West offers solid compensation for Dental Assistants. They provide a supportive work environment. This company operates in the Pacific Northwest.
-
Pediatric Dental Group
Average Salary: $62,727
Pediatric Dental Group offers competitive salaries for Dental Assistants. They focus on children's dental care. This group operates in multiple locations across the country.
-
Children & Family Dentistry & Braces
Average Salary: $62,643
Children & Family Dentistry & Braces provides good pay for Dental Assistants. They focus on family dental care. This practice operates in several states.
-
Excellence in Dentistry
Average Salary: $62,455
Excellence in Dentistry offers fair compensation for Dental Assistants. They focus on high-quality dental services. This practice operates in various locations.
-
King County, WA
Average Salary: $62,153
King County, WA offers competitive salaries for Dental Assistants. They focus on public health services. This county operates in Washington.
-
The Dental Specialists
Average Salary: $61,763
The Dental Specialists provides good pay for Dental Assistants. They focus on specialized dental care. This company operates in multiple locations.
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 can lead to higher pay and more job satisfaction. One way to earn more is by gaining additional certifications. These can include expanded functions or specialty areas like orthodontics or pediatrics. Another way is by seeking out positions in high-demand areas or specialties.
Experience and skill level also play a significant role in earning potential. Assistants who take on more responsibilities and demonstrate their competence can often negotiate higher wages. Networking within the dental community can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help connect with potential employers. Finally, continuing education can keep skills sharp and knowledge current. This can make an Assistant more valuable to employers and open up higher-paying positions.
By focusing on these areas, Dental Assistants can improve their earning potential. They can also enhance their career prospects and job satisfaction. Here are five factors to consider:
- Obtain additional certifications
- Seek positions in high-demand areas or specialties
- Gain more experience and responsibilities
- Network within the dental community
- Pursue continuing education



