If you’re considering a career change, dental assisting is an option that continues to grow in demand across the country. Dental practices rely heavily on skilled assistants who serve as ancillaries to the dentist and hygiene team, and without them, most practices would simply fall apart! Here’s what you need to know about this important healthcare role, its ever-increasing demand, and some of the unique benefits it has to offer.
Why Is the Demand for Dental Assistants Growing?
Several factors can be linked to the surge in demand for dental assistants, including:
- Aging population – As people age, their dental care needs change and expand, creating a demand for skilled dental professionals who can treat patients of all ages.
- Emphasis on prevention – Dentists today increasingly prioritize the prevention of problems, and this requires the support of well-trained hygienists and assistants on their team.
- Expanded roles – Advances in dental technology, new instruments, and better treatment techniques have broadened the scope of responsibilities that dental assistants handle.
- Strong job growth – The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% increase in dental assistant jobs within the next 5 years, with roughly 55,000 new job openings annually.
What Benefits Does Dental Assisting Offer?
Dental assisting is a job that isn’t going anywhere any time soon, but it’s also good to know that the role itself comes with many benefits that’ll keep you smiling day in and day out:
- Competitive pay – Average dental assistant salaries fall within the range of $47,000 and upwards of $60,000. Opportunities for specialization in areas like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry can further increase potential earnings.
- Fast training – One of the most attractive aspects of dental assisting is the short training period. Many programs have you ready to hit the ground running within a year!
- Making a difference – Beyond job stability, dental assisting lets you make an impact in the lives of patients, from helping them overcome anxiety to teaching them how to better care for their teeth and gums.
The bottom line is, the dentistry industry is constantly evolving, but one constant remains—the heavy demand for skilled and exceptional dental assistants. If you’re looking for a career in which you will quite literally bring smiles to people’s faces, you should look no further!
About the Green Country School of Dental Assisting
The staff at the Green Country School of Dental Assisting has been helping aspiring dental assistants in Claremore, OK, and the nearby communities for several years, offering a clear path toward an exciting and promising career. If you have any questions about the blog or you want to request additional enrollment information for yourself or a loved one, please call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (918) 343-7188.