About Dental Assistant Jobs
Dental Assistant Jobs Overview
Dental assistant jobs are crucial to the functioning of dental practices. Busy dentists can’t be with patients at all times and are usually focused on performing technical or complex dental treatments.
Dental assistants are needed to make patients comfortable and assist dentists during dental procedures. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics foresees an increase of 7% in dental assistant jobs over the next decade.
You may want to consider a job as a dental assistant if you enjoy bringing a smile to the faces of both coworkers and patients and working in a calm environment with high hygiene standards. Your duties in a dental assistant job include:
- reviewing and updating patient histories
- recording patient concerns
- preparing the exam room for appointments
- disinfecting and sterilizing instruments
- cleaning treatment rooms
- giving patients instructions for oral care after surgery
Salaries for Dental Assistant Jobs
The median pay for a dental assistant in the U.S. is $17.91 an hour within a range of $15.56 to $21.99, depending on location. Use Monster's Salary Tool to discover what you can earn in a dental assistant job near you. Each salary page shows you salaries for related jobs, where in the country your skills are in high demand, and how you could advance in your dental career.
How to Find the Best Dental Assistant Jobs for You
Here are some tips and questions to ask yourself to help you find a dental assistant job that’s the right fit for you:
- Assess your educational background, certifications, and specialized skills.
- What type of dental practice interests you the most? Do you prefer working in a general dental office, orthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, or other specialized areas?
- What work schedule are you seeking? Some practices may require evening or weekend availability, so it’s important to think about your desired schedule beforehand.
- Consider factors such as the proximity of the dental office to your home, transportation options, and the demographics of the area.
- What benefits and compensation are important to you?
Pay Attention to the Job Description
Reading job descriptions is important to evaluate which dental assistant jobs align with your preferences and expertise and to learn the most common requirements employers are looking for. For example, a description emphasizing the need for strong chairside assistant skills during complex dental procedures like oral surgery, indicates a position suited for candidates with prior experience in those areas.
Research Potential Employers
Understanding the values and work culture of at the dental practice or clinic you’re applying to is essential. Research their website and patient or employee testimonials. Look for an environment that aligns with your own values, promotes teamwork and growth, and offers a positive work atmosphere.
Don’t Forget About Your Long-Term Goals
Think about your career aspirations as a dental assistant and where you see yourself in the future. Consider if you want to seek growth opportunities, such as advanced training, specialization, or a promotion within the dental practice, and apply with employers who can help you reach your goals.
For example, look for practices that offer professional development programs, continuing education opportunities, or support for certifications and advanced training. These can indicate a commitment to the growth and advancement of their dental assistants. Remember that specializing in certain areas, like oral surgery, can open doors to career advancement.
How to Apply to Dental Assistant Jobs
As you embark on your journey to secure a job as a dental assistant, present yourself effectively through your resume and cover letter. Tailoring your application materials is essential to rise above the other candidates, and we are here to give you the tips you need.
Update Your Dental Assistant Resume
Every job listing will ask for a resume. But don't worry! Writing a dental assistant resume doesn't have to be as painful as a root canal.
- Review the job description and emphasize your skills that are essential for the role, such as chairside assisting, sterilization techniques, knowledge of dental software, and excellent communication skills.
- Detail your previous dental assistant experience, including the types of procedures you assisted with, the patient population you worked with, and any notable achievements, such as assisting in complex surgeries.
- Include relevant certifications and emphasize soft skills such as attention to detail, empathy, and working well in a team.
- Download our sample dental assistant resume, add your information, and adapt it for each dental assistant job you want to apply for. If you need expert help get in touch with Monster’s resume writing services.
Add a Cover Letter
Cover letters are an effective tool for personalizing your application and showing hiring managers how your skills will benefit them. Read our dental assistant cover letter example and keep in mind the following:
- Address your cover letter to the specific hiring manager or dental practice, avoiding generic greetings.
- Clearly state your passion for the dental field and your excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the dental practice’s success.
- Highlight your relevant skills and qualifications and explain how they make you a strong candidate for that particular dental assistant job.
Send Your Application
Here is how to get the best out of your Monster membership and apply for dental assistant jobs:
- First, create a profile for free and add up to five resumes to share with recruiters and companies browsing our database daily, allowing them to contact you with exclusive job proposals.
- Activate custom alerts to receive prompt notifications about new dental assistant jobs near your preferred locations.
- Use search filters to narrow down your options based on location, date posted, and other helpful criteria.
- When you’re ready, click on “Apply”, follow the application instructions, and remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to increase your chances of success.
How to Follow Up with an Employer
Allow a week or two for the employer to review all the applications and shortlist candidates before initiating a follow-up. If the job posting specified a closing date or a timeline for the hiring process, take that into account. Either send a concise email or make a phone call if you prefer a more direct approach.
No matter which follow-up method you choose, be well-prepared and polite when speaking with the employer. Introduce yourself, mention the position you applied for, and ask about the status of the application.
If the job posting listed an HR contact, direct your follow-up communication to them. If you don’t have specific contact information, reach out to the practice’s general email address or phone number.
Interviewing Tips for Dental Assistant Jobs
There's no need to grind your teeth before the big day, just follow Monster’s advice to learn how to nail your interview:
- Remember your nonverbal communication - stand or sit straight and make eye contact to radiate confidence. Plus, dress professionally to make a great first impression.
- Practice your responses to common job interview questions and prepare examples that demonstrate your technical knowledge and skills such as your ability to work well in a team and communicate with patients and other dental professionals.
- Gather any necessary documents, such as copies of your resume, certifications, and reference letters, to bring to the interview.
- Prepare a set of questions to ask your interviewer, such as inquiring about mentoring programs or if the practice has experienced dental assistants who are willing to provide guidance and support to newer team members.
Common Interview Questions for Dental Assistant Jobs
Check Monster’s career advice area for dental assistant interview questions you can use to practice before the big day, such as:
- What specific skills and qualifications do you possess that make you a strong candidate for this dental assistant job?
- What do you find most rewarding about working as a dental assistant?
- How do you ensure infection control and sterilization procedures are followed in a dental office?
- Describe your experience with dental software and electronic health records.
- What steps do you take to educate patients on oral hygiene practices and preventive care?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you had to handle a dental emergency or unexpected situation at work?
What to Do After the Interview
Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview with a thank you email to the interviewer within a day or two. Briefly highlight any key points discussed during the interview and reiterate your interest in the position. Unless instructed otherwise, wait at least three to five days to follow up with another email inquiring about the hiring process.
What to Do When You Get an Offer for a Dental Assistant Job?
Receiving an offer for a dental assistant job is an exciting moment worth celebrating. Here’s what you should do to navigate this opportunity:
- Answer in a timely manner, expressing your gratitude for the offer. Promptly inform them of your decision to accept, decline, or request additional time for consideration.
- Before signing any employment contracts, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of your employment and ask questions if you don’t.
- If you believe there is an opportunity for negotiation regarding salary or benefits, prepare your case using industry standards to support your request.
Dental Assistant Job Career Paths
Some dental offices prefer that you have a bachelor's degree, so pursuing one could open up more opportunities in your career. It can also be an asset if you pass a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination and have some experience with electronic medical records (EMR).
The dental industry has plenty of career advancement opportunities and with more experience and education you'll earn a higher salary. Here are a few positions for career advancement that dental assistants can move into:
- Dental hygienist: provides preventive dental care, including teeth cleanings, exams, and education on oral hygiene practices to patients.
- Radiologic technologist: captures and develops dental radiographs, ensuring proper radiation safety protocols, and assisting dentists in diagnosing and treating dental conditions.
- Dental laboratory technician: fabricates dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances based on specifications provided by other dental professionals.
Dental Assistant Jobs: Similar Occupations
For a list of current openings, check out our healthcare support jobs. We also have other positions that serve similar functions, such as: