Dental assistants provide important support to dentists and other dental professionals. Their duties include chair-side assistance, laboratory work, patient care, sterilization, and administrative tasks. As a result, dental assistants are a vital part of any dental office.
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how much do dental assistants make Per Year?
The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors. Geographic region, educational attainment, experience, and employer type can all affect the salary of a dental assistant.
According to Salary dot com, the median annual wage for dental assistants as of late November 2022 was $44,881. This means that half of all dental assistants earned more than this amount and half earned less.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has only 2021 numbers, which are much lower.
Geographic Region
The geographic region where dental assistant works can impact their salary. Generally, dental assistants working in the Northeast tend to earn more than those in other regions.
The same can be said for those living in certain metropolitan areas. On the other hand, dental assistants in the Midwest and South tend to earn less. In 2022, the highest-paying states for dental assistants were California ($53,565), and Massachusetts ($49,7427). The lowest-paying states were Arkansas ($40,640), and Mississippi ($35,683).
Educational Attainment
The educational attainment of dental assistants can have an impact on their salary. Dental assistants who have completed a certificate or degree program in dental assisting typically earn more than those who have not.
In 2022, dental assistants who obtained an associate’s degree had a median annual wage of $48,510, while those who obtained a bachelor’s degree earned a median of $52,670. On the other hand, those who do not have a degree or certificate typically earn a median wage of $40,130.
Experience
Experience is a major factor in determining the salary of a dental assistant. Generally, dental assistants who have been working in the field for a longer time tend to earn more than those who are just starting.
In 2022, the median wage for dental assistants with 1 to 4 years of experience was $45,220. For those with 5 to 9 years of experience, the median wage was $46,430. And for those with 10 or more years of experience, the median wage was $48,720.
Employer Type
The type of employer, a dental assistant works for can also have an impact on their salary. Generally, those working for dental offices, private practices, and clinics earn more than those working in other settings.
In 2022, the median wage for dental assistants working in dental offices was $45,820. For those working in private practices, the median wage was $45,310. And for those working in clinics, the median wage was $44,540.
Conclusion
Dental assistants support dentists and other dental professionals. As a result, the salary of a dental assistant can vary depending on various factors, such as geographic region, educational attainment, experience, and employer type.
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