| Would you like a job in a growing field that does not | | | | assistant before they graduate. |
| require a lot of schooling? If so then a job as a dental | | | | In addition to any training programs you take, you will |
| assistant might be just what you are looking for. No | | | | also receive plenty of on the job training. This is |
| matter how bad the economy is, there will always be | | | | important because each dental office runs differently |
| dentists looking for people to work for them and help | | | | and has their own way of doing things. This will also |
| them keep their office up and running. As an assistant | | | | keep you up to date on any advances in technology in |
| you will be able to work flexible hours or even part | | | | the dental field. As an assistant your duties will vary on |
| time. This is especially important if you have a family or | | | | a day to day basis. Most dental assistants are required |
| are taking classes to eventually advance your career. | | | | to perform basic office duties such as record keeping |
| If you are interested in getting started, find out the | | | | and setting appointments, assist the dentist with |
| specific requirements for the state that you live in. | | | | procedures, work directly with patients to ensure their |
| Some states require a degree or certification for you | | | | comfort, and work in the laboratory making crowns |
| to become an assistant. Others just allow you to be | | | | and molds of teeth. This wide range of duties keeps |
| trained on the job. | | | | the career of a dental professional exciting and fresh. |
| In order to get licensed as a dental professional, you | | | | Each day brings something new! |
| will be required to take classes at a local college or | | | | Dental assistant jobs are in high demand and the job |
| trade school. This will be followed up by a written or | | | | market is projected to continue to grow in upcoming |
| practical exam. The good news is that most programs | | | | years. The average median annual salary of dental |
| can be completed in just one to two years. Any | | | | assistants is around $32,000. This can vary from state |
| assistants that perform specialized duties, such as | | | | to state and with extra experience or certifications |
| radiological procedures, may be required to complete | | | | you can earn even more. In addition, working as an |
| the Radiation Health and Safety exam which is | | | | assistant is a great stepping stone to advance your |
| offered by the Dental Assisting National Board. Any | | | | career. Many dental assistants go back for additional |
| high school student interested in pursuing a career as a | | | | school and earn their degree to become a dental |
| dental assistant should take courses in biology, | | | | hygienist. A career as a dental assistant will provide |
| chemistry, health, and office practices. There may | | | | many great opportunities and is not going to require a |
| even be co-op opportunities for high school students | | | | four year degree. |
| which will allow them to begin training to become an | | | | |