Dental
Dental Assistant jobs
Dental assistants work chairside with dentists: they prepare patients and instruments, take X-rays, sterilize equipment and keep procedures running smoothly.
- Typical US pay
- $38k–$55k /yr
- ≈ $18–$26/hr
- Open jobs
- 0
- on MEDroles right now
- Also called
- Chairside Assistant, Registered Dental Assistant, RDA, EFDA
Open dental assistant jobs
No dental assistant jobs are posted right now. Apply once and a recruiter will call you when one opens.
What does a dental assistant do?
- Seat patients and prepare treatment rooms and instruments
- Assist the dentist chairside during procedures
- Take dental X-rays and impressions where state law allows
- Sterilize instruments and keep infection control logs
Key skills
- Chairside assisting
- Dental radiography
- Sterilization
- Dental software
- Patient comfort
How to become a dental assistant
A dental assisting program (9 to 12 months) or on-the-job training, depending on the state.
Licensing & certifications
Rules vary by state. Many states require a radiography certificate to take X-rays, and expanded functions (EFDA, RDA) need extra certification. The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) from DANB is recognized nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
How much do dental assistants make?
Dental Assistants in the US typically earn about $38k to $55k a year, depending on experience, certification, location, specialty and setting. Bilingual candidates sometimes earn a pay differential.
How do I become a dental assistant?
A dental assisting program (9 to 12 months) or on-the-job training, depending on the state.
Do dental assistants need a license or certification?
Rules vary by state. Many states require a radiography certificate to take X-rays, and expanded functions (EFDA, RDA) need extra certification. The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) from DANB is recognized nationwide.
What other job titles are there for dental assistants?
Common titles include Chairside Assistant, Registered Dental Assistant, RDA, EFDA, Expanded Function Dental Assistant, Orthodontic Assistant.
Pay ranges are approximate US figures for entry-level through experienced workers and vary by state, setting and specialty. Licensing rules vary by state; check with your state board.