Top 7 Benefits of Becoming a Dental Assistant: Making a Difference in the Dental Field

A Dental Assistant at work

For those who become a dental assistant, the benefits are nearly endless. We don’t mean the benefits like health insurance or retirement (though those are usually great, too), we mean the wonderful ways that being a dental assistant can impact your life, and the dental profession overall.

To help you see why this may be the perfect career for you, we’ve put together this list of the top 7 benefits of being a dental assistant.

Short training

One of the best dental assistant benefits is that it’s quick to get started. In fact, you can become a dental assistant in as few as 10 months. Your program will consist of courses on anatomy, dental procedures, and providing patient care. You’ll also learn the leadership and management skills that will establish your career as a dental assistant, and your position in a dental practice. 

Finally, you will be required to complete an externship, working in a practice. Here you will gain experience

Opportunities for advancement and career growth

Once you’ve completed your dental assisting program, you will find incredible opportunities for advancement and career growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says “Employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.” So jobs will be plentiful, and growth will be built in.

As we explain on our website, “After working as a dental assistant, you may decide to expand your job responsibilities by becoming a dental hygienist or dentist. You will need additional dental schooling for these occupations; however, the knowledge you receive on the job as a dental assistant will benefit you in advancing your career in the field of dentistry.”

Competitive salary and benefits

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest 10 percent of dental assistants earned more than $59,000. While salaries will vary by location and job market, the median income for dental assistants was around $40,000 in 2021.

Great working conditions

One of the benefits of being a dental assistant is that it comes with a comfortable working environment. Dental offices are clean, professional, and keep regular hours, so you will know your work schedule. You will be a member of a team of professionals working together to create a positive environment and pleasant experience for your patients.

Variety of tasks and responsibilities

If you like variety in your day, that’s a great reason to become a dental assistant. Explore Health Careers lists a few of the duties that you may be called upon to do on any given day:

  • Assisting the dentist in all phases of treatment
  • Sterilizing instruments
  • Preparing treatment rooms
  • Providing patient education and nutritional counseling
  • Arranging and confirming appointments
  • Preparing dental insurance claims
  • Fabricating mouth guards
  • Performing laboratory procedures

And more!

Constant learning and skill development

There are many ways to continue learning and developing new skills as a dental assistant. In fact, all dental assistants must have proof of completing mandatory continuing education dental assistant schooling. There are a wide variety of online courses available to make your continuing education flexible and fun. 

The ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

As you can see, there are many things that make being a dental assistant worth it, but our favorite reason to consider making this your career path is that you have an opportunity to change lives. The job duties of a dental assistant mean that you will be front and center for a patient’s dental care, their smile transformations, and more. Not only that, but you will help your community as a whole to take advantage of improved oral health.

As we said at the start, for dental assistants, the benefits are endless. Learn more about our Dental Assistant course at Howard Academy.

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