Dental Assistant Careers

Dental assisting is a flexible, highly valued career that is currently in great demand. As such, qualified dental assistants have a range of workplace options. (See: Dental Assistant Job Description)

Where Do Dental Assistants Work?

Dental assistants may work in solo dental practices alongside one dentist, or they may serve group practices with several dentists. Hospital dental clinics are another option, as well as public health, where dental assistants treat patients in schools and public clinics. Specialty practices also make use of dental assistants, where treatments can focus on braces, oral surgery, root canals, gum disease, facial deformities, replacing lost teeth and children's teeth. Some may be hired by dental schools and classes to help dental assisting students learn about the intricacies of the job. Some dental assistants may even work part-time at multiple locations, serving multiple functions.

Here you can find out about dental assistant salaries, or see what training is required.

Dental Assistant Job Outlook

Because of a growing elderly population, greater longevity of life, increased focus on preventative care and greater acceptance by dentists of the need for assistants, the demand for dental assistants will be high for years to come. According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of dental assisting jobs is expected to rise dramatically through at least the year 2016, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States. As more people visit dentists' offices, more dentists will look into hiring help.

Explore the links below to learn more about dental assisting careers.