Dental Assistant Salary – How Much Do Dental Assistants Make?

As in all careers, pay for dental assistants varies based on experience and qualifications. As a general benchmark, these are the most recent salary figures for dental assistants:

  • 50% of dental assistants earn roughly $33,470 per year.
  • The top 10% of dental assistants earn over $47,000 per year
  • Dental assistant hourly rates generally start at $10.90 straight out of school and can exceed $20 with experience

Dental Assistant Salaries by State

Compensation levels for dental assistants also vary from state to state because differences in cost of living, how demanded dental assistants are, and other local factors. Here is list of average dental assistant salaries in some the most populous states in the US:

  • California – $16.97
  • Texas – $15.29
  • New York – $16.55
  • Florida – $15.96
  • Illinois – $16.00

Dental Assistant Salaries by City

The salary of a dental assistant will also depend on what city they live in. Here is a list of average dental assistant salaries from some of largest cities in the US:

  • Manchester, NH – $22.51
  • Santa Rosa, CA – $21.49
  • Barnstable Town, MA – $21.43
  • Anchorage, AK – $21.00
  • San Francisco, CA – $20.98
  • Napa, CA – $20.57
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN – $20.51

Figures courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment & Wages database.

Top Dental Assistant Schools

  • Penn Foster

    Having the right skills is vitally important in today’s super-competitive job market. With online training from Penn Foster Career School, students are assured of learning up-to-date career skills that will prepare them for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Students at Penn Foster Career School can get the training they need quickly, conveniently, and affordably.

    Penn Foster is one of the world’s largest and most respected online education providers. Their programs are job focused, and they offer training for employment in the fastest-growing fields in business, technology, health care, and the trades.

  • Heald College

    Heald College has a long history. Over 145 years ago, Edward Payson Heald opened the first Heald College in San Francisco, California. His mission was, and continues to be, to prepare students for business careers by providing them with career education that focused on practical, hands-on learning. Heald College has persevered since 1863, always remaining true to its original mission. As the needs of the workplace changed, the Heald College curriculum evolved from business courses to include technology, healthcare and legal degrees. As Heald College heads toward its 150th anniversary, we look back on a proud history as the first business college in the western United States.

  • Vista College El Paso

    Vista College offers numerous programs in Business, Healthcare and Technology that will give you a much needed edge when looking for a new career or seeking to move up in your existing career. The focused instruction and hands-on training offered at Vista College prepares you for the day-to-day challenges you’ll face in an exciting career.

  • Kaplan Career Institute

    At Kaplan Career Institute, we provide affordable, career-focused programs that not only meet the demands of the market, but also the demands of your busy life. We offer day and evening classes to accommodate your busy schedule. Our accelerated curricula give you the opportunity to earn a diploma in as little as 9 to 15 months or an associate’s degree in less than 2 years. Our instructors have professional experience and provide an inside look into some of today’s hottest careers.

    Kaplan Higher Education or its authorized agents and representatives may contact me via email or telephone to discuss these and other educational opportunities in the future.

  • Vista College Longview

    Vista College offers numerous programs in Business, Healthcare and Technology that will give you a much needed edge when looking for a new career or seeking to move up in your existing career. The focused instruction and hands-on training offered at Vista College prepares you for the day-to-day challenges you’ll face in an exciting career.

  • Anthem College

    Anthem College delivers accredited, career-focused diplomas and degrees in a wide variety of fields to help you meet the challenges of these fast growing and ever changing industries.

    At Anthem College, you will find professionals ready to support your quest for a successful career. Anthem College offers programs to students who are entering the workforce for the first time as well as those who are looking to expand their existing career skills.

  • Blue Cliff College

    Blue Cliff College is committed to using its human and physical resources to provide services facilitating personal growth, professional development and a sense of responsibility to our students.

    The primary purpose of Blue Cliff College is to help students develop a high level of competency, which is accomplished through the pursuit, assimilation, and dissemination of knowledge in academic programs.

  • Ultimate Medical Academy

    Train for your new career today! Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) provides you the hands-on education and credentials you need to start a career in the fast-growing health care industry. We have two convenient campuses in Clearwater and Tampa, Florida and our sole focus is helping you succeed as an Allied Health Care professional.

  • Heritage College

    Every Heritage school (Heritage Institute & Heritage College) helps real people build real careers. Our schools offer programs and degrees for a career as an X-Ray Medical Technician®, Medical Assistant, Massage Therapist, Esthetician, Surgical Technologist, Personal Trainer, Pharmacy Technician, or Cosmetologist. Please note that all programs may not be offered at all schools.

  • American Career College

    American Career College (ACC) offers hands-on training that will prepare students for careers in the healthcare industry at three campuses in Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County, California. ACC“s programs combine classroom lectures and hands-on training to prepare students for a Diploma or Associate of Occupational Science degree. All ACC programs include access to trained faculty, a full student services department committed to helping students succeed, and career guidance and services after graduation. ACC is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools; some programs also hold programmatic accreditation or approvals.

    Programs vary by campus. Program lengths vary by session and schedule. Financial aid available to those who qualify. ACC cannot guarantee employment. American Career College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

  • Jessyka

    I worked in the Dental industry as a dental assistant to an oral surgeon. made 8-10 an hour. The dr. kept us from work no more than 34 to keep from having to pay us medical insurance and he kept no one on salary. I hate that so many sites try to make DA a career to support your self and kids. Its not!! Become a waitress. You will make more and can go back to school to earn a real degree. Dont be fooled.

  • Massooorraaa

    It’s just a waste of time job. Save your time and find a real job that can afford you something better so that you can go back to school and become a Dentist.
    Unfortunately I discovered that after I wasted a lot of time on this useless job, but it’s never too late for the right thing, isn’t it ??!!

  • Madiekins225

    Hi, I am a 16  year old girl who is in my sophomore year in high school in New York and I will be attending GST Boces for dental assisting classes and training my Junior and Senior year. I was just wondering if any of you know of this to be a credible school and if I will be able to get a job right out of high school, like they are telling me. If you could, please email me at Madiekins225@yahoo.com
    Thanks. 

  • Tolxalot

    Some dental assistants get on the job training you do not have to go to school for it. Although it comes in handy. If you are learning your last 2 years of school then you will probably have good odds of finding a job willing to hire without te schooling.

  • Tolxalot

    Some dental assistants get on the job training you do not have to go to school for it. Although it comes in handy. If you are learning your last 2 years of school then you will probably have good odds of finding a job willing to hire without te schooling.

  • navid gul

    hi..i am fresh graguated as a dentist from one of the university of phillpines.right now i am in doha qatar.can you give me advice if i can get job as dental assistant in usa and if yes then what i have to do for that.thanks

  • Rekha_rainepali

    Hi…I am one of the few people who have an interested to be dental assistant. However, i do not have any ideas about this field, someone help me with this please. what types of subject i have to take?

  • Memadentassist

    If you research schools in your area research DANB for training or facilities in your area that offer accredited programs or find a place to hire too without training and work get your experience in and get your certification don’t waste time and money with 10 saturday courses and claimed certified schools unless it’s state approved and danb approved

  • Lmbi1

    i really want to get dental field but i dont know what school to choose i want to make sure i will get a job after i graduate  and make sure i didnt go to a school for nothing i live in rialto CA 92376

  • Pitic

    How about in Brussels/Belgium? Any Dental School??? tks

  • Jms_82

    would a dental assistant make more or the same salary working for a dental specialist vs general dentist?

  • Jms_82

    would a dental assistant make more or the same salary working for a dental specialist vs general dentist?

  • Jms_82

    would a dental assistant make more or the same salary working for a dental specialist vs general dentist?

  • Micheledemcuk

    Anthem institute is a great college for being a dental assistant

  • http://www.esninteractive.com ESN Interactive

    Hi Pitic. I’m sorry but we only have schools in the United States and Canada.

  • Jackie752010

    I am in my early 40′s and I’m wanting to change careers. I’ve been thinking about going for dental assisting. Am I too old?

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_SSF7DSMDZDQFDONAUSYNZLIODY Andie

    You’re absolutely not too old. I just finished school recently, I’m only 24 but there were women in my class that were in their early and late 30′s. Biggest thing I can say is to be successful in this kind of career path you really HAVE to have a desire to make a difference in peoples lives and serious attention to detail. I wasn’t sure when I started if I’d like it, but it turns out it’s the perfect field for me. Find a school near you and ask if you can sit in on a class session to see what you think.  

  • charlene18

    Im thinking of entering the dental assistant field. But i have a lot of questions to ask like this program i keep hearing about called myadti. so if you could email me at jammie_francis@yahoo.com that would be helpful.

  • Andres_seviilleno

    hi..I am a graduate of dentistry in the philpines ,can you advice me on how to get a job as dental assistant in canada and if yes then what i have to do for that thanks.

  • Brad Sluder

    First, You should be able to use correct grammar. (…few people who have an INTERESTED to be ? dental assistant. What!

  • Jackielt02

    Jackie, If you want to make money and enjoy the field of dentistry, become a hygienst. Dental Assisting is an underpaid and underappreciated profession, yet so needed in the dental office. I worked in a dental office for 12 years, the same office right out of college. I worked so hard, that once I got home, I barely had energy for much else. I have a husband and family to take care of and a life to live after work, which was very hard.  This job requires alot of energy and dedication. I am 49 and left the profession 3 years ago. I needed bilateral carpel tunnel surgery which failed and unable to continue in the field. Sorry for the horror story, but people over 40 should know this. Good luck!!

  • Jackielt02

    Most accredited colleges are 18 months after your prerequesets are completed. In the program itself, you have radiology with a lab, anatomy with phiso,, dental materials with a lab, dental procedures with a lab, pharmacology and several more. Your in school usually 9-5. There is a start up fee which pays for all you lab needs such a lab coats, gloves, masks, protective glasses with side shields and instruments. . It is really a job which requires alot of stamina, energy and attention to detail. Many times you work through your lunch and after hours if you doctor tends to run late. If you are young under 25 no kids, great job if you get certified. Pays ok after a few years if you are good and can work independently. Good luck.

  • Samanthamyers28

    I am interested in dental assistant school in ruston Louisiana and was wondering what they start out making.

  • Tessa98

    Yes,

    I agree, it is never to late to change careers. The coursework to learn

    how to become a dental assistant

    dental assistant can also take less than a year, so it is great opportunity for a career changer.

  • frank

    yes you are nothin but old

  • Ssab

    I do not like the reviews that most of these schools get, people are saying this is a rip off

  • judy

    as an asst for 12 yrs what should i be getting an hour?

  • Lizbet

    I agree, Jackie.  I have been assisting a wonderful dentist and thought it would be nice part time work.  I am gone from home 10 -12 hours for little pay.  At 42 I can honestly say if I were to even consider staying in this field I would go to school to become a hygienist to earn a good paycheck to compensate for how tired I am at the end of the day.  Might as well make it worth the work.

  • Lizbet

    I agree, Jackie.  I have been assisting a wonderful dentist and thought it would be nice part time work.  I am gone from home 10 -12 hours for little pay.  At 42 I can honestly say if I were to even consider staying in this field I would go to school to become a hygienist to earn a good paycheck to compensate for how tired I am at the end of the day.  Might as well make it worth the work.

  • Marivero7

    Id like to study dental assistant, Any advice? I’m in my early 30s, thank you

  • kkk

    Im a senior and trying think of a good career to go in? Any good ideas?

  • Pary_420

    everest college sucks, one of the worst colleges I have ever been to. They treat you like a preschool kid !!!!!!

  • Lionette2012

    There is a great school called Austin for dentals assistants! Only 2500 dollars, 12 classes and 40 hours with a dentist! Great deal, great environment!

  • Dubedoo

    Hi, I’m turning 52 tomorrow, and i’v just enrolled in dental assistant program. I ‘ excited about it but I’m afraid that I might be too old to make a career change. I also hope I’m not going have a hard time finding a job. Any advice?

  • Kcdavis97

    What is a good assistant/hygenist school near Mobile Al

  • Claygamez66

    Is this school actually located in Austin tx

  • J_kidd89

    Ross instuitue is a rip off it cost 15,000 for 6 months of schooling

  • Ana Maria Belleza

    Hi i,m ann, a dentist from philippines.I’ve been practicing for almost 20 yrs and engaged in government service for over 6 yrs as hospital dentist..im interested to work as dental assistant.can you help me to apply for such job?

  • Elsomelena

     to be a dental assistant in the state of California am i required for a certain amount of hours in schooling? i am now in school in Oregon to become an assistant, but in 5 months plan to move to southern California…. Right now the school I am in requires 6 months of intense learning. i really need help to figure out what i may possibly need?

  • Dental Assisting Instructor

    Check out http://www.danb.org/main/statespecificinfo.asp#CA
    California is a hard state to get qualified. Even to be a basic dental assistant has to get a couple of licenses. But this link will give you all of the information you need. Good luck.

  • Dental Assisting Instructor

    If you can get credits for learning this in high school, DO IT! It is a great opportunity. I teach dental assisting at a high school in California and my students do really well. Any student who is willing to work their butt off and learn, they get hired. Good luck.

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    been a NYS Licenced Dental assistant for 26 years never made more than $24,000 per year! market is flooded with foreigners who are very competative hence salaries have dropped to $9-16 per hour and if female expect your dental assistant career to drop of the map when you hit “50″..a word from the wise do yourselves a favor look into dental hygiene instead! . 

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    Your are too old ..”sorry” but I have to warn you! …i’m 52 and i’ve been a licenced Dental assistant in NY for 26 years, I lost my last FT job of 5 years in the middle of 2008 to a young hispanic girl who would work for $10 per hour as i was making $20 well lets just say I was out so fast it made my head spin! and it doesn’t matter that i have vast skills and experience from old school to state of the art high tech dentistry I have not been able to get and keep employment because of the brickwall of young attractive highly competitive mostly foreign and I dare say hostile “new age work force” thats permiated the Dental/Medical field…and they hate Americans and sabatage is ripe! and because of the mass flood of foreigners that have entered this last decade salaries offered are now lower that i’d ever seen before …..EVER! 
    starting salaries are aboutt $8 -11 and dentists rarely pay more than $16 per hour for experienced now? and i hope you can speak fluent Spanish or Russian, Otherwise your just pissing into the wind? 
    all I know is I’m at my wits end as I have no other vocational skills than Dental assisting and don’t know what to do?
    but good luck dubedoo   

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    Every state has a “Dental district” i’m in NY so ours is the 9th Dental District
     ”locate yours” and they will provide YOU want a be Dental assistants to a refutable “training and Cert. course study program” through them!, otherwise, you might get ripped off by fly by night take your money and run scam schools that are now popping up everywhere? 

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    oh please, they all want something for nothing!
    signed 26 year exp.DA 

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    one word “DANBE” this extensive national DA course study and certification program enables you automatic entry into 50 states! because each state requires their own state certification. but really if i were you I would look into Dental hygiene! …TRUST ME i’m a Dental assistant its not a lifelong career your concidered too old at 45! plus the market is extremely flooded now?..and you will not make anywhere near the money you hope too? ..just let’in you know! 

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    ya right? everyone from a 3 world country claims to be a dentist! if your a dentist than be a dentist!… stop coming to my country and taking our jobs! ……………………..signed NYS state licenced DA

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    PANKEY INSTITUTE

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_X3YB7J2XKMNTNJKKUTTAROY5YE Allyson

    $9-12 per hour!…………… “go into dental hygiene” at least you’ll be able to make a living?

  • Cvlsimmons

    I’ve worked as an assitant since 1987 and have always made more working for a specialist.

  • DA2004

    Wow Allyson, i can say for sure that this is not a lot of money you make. I’m from Germany and was hoping here in the States you would make a lot more money as a Dental Assistant. I don’t know how long and how intense School is here to become a Dental Assistant and if you’re only in School or mostly working at an actual Dental office. In Germany it takes 3 years to become a certified Dental Assistant and those 3 years you work at a Dental office 4 days out of 5 in a week, that 1 day you have School. So i know for sure that what I’ve learned in those years is way more than i expected and i graduated with a pretty good Degree in my Hands. I was hoping i would make more Money ( in Germany about $3000) here than in Germany but after reading this, i was clearly wrong. Getting only $8-$10 an hour is not enough for the work a Dental Assistant does. I am really disappointed knowing how much i’ve learned but not getting paid right. I don’t know what a Dental Assistant here is allowed and not allowed to do, but in Germany you can say besides what “only” a Dentist is allowed to do ( fillings, yanking out teethe and all the big stuff) a DA does everything else, x-rays, cleaning, professional cleaning of teeth, impressions, temporary fillings, etc. so i believe we should get paid more!

  • Nelly

    i am tinking about doing a career in dentistry any advise?

  • Dblink182rulz

    I didn’t know there was jobs in Germany for dental assistants!!! How much is the average salary there and is it hard to find a job there as a dental assistant or dental hygienist? 

  • Optimus8816

    Wow!!! pure ignorance!!!

  • Corrales1025

    Hello everyone im 19 yrs old and I dont know what career to choose, out of all the careers dentist calls more my attention,but I have no clue what so ever about dentist..for those that know about the career did u gain yor experience by college or is somethin u just learn.please give me some advice thank you

  • Corrales1025

    Hello everyone im 19 yrs old and I dont know what career to choose, out of all the careers dentist calls more my attention,but I have no clue what so ever about dentist..for those that know about the career did u gain yor experience by college or is somethin u just learn.please give me some advice thank you

  • http://profile.yahoo.com/SBHCFSP2MOS5QWHYZWOHF6RDCE marie

    i live in texas and i can say i dont make $15 hr. that would be nice. dentist are cheap and dont care if your n2o certified. ive been a dental assistant for almost 4 years and have made about $25,000 this past year.

  • Sharondayosteen

    I started out as an on job training (high school),then Lindsley Hopkins out of  Miami, Fl. for expanded function, in 1976 hygiene school from Miami Dade, also took The Central Regional Boards to be able to work as a hygienist in Colorado. After 20 years in hygiene, went to dental school at UF,  if I knew how horrible staff members can be, BS I’d go back to hygiene, and I talked many patients into doing hygiene.  If I could find a career in dental, I would leave tomorrow!.

                                                                              Dr. O

  • Sharondayosteen

    good luck and find the alpha dog and kiss a__

  • Shirin123_

    how do u know?If only u are in that place u will understand………I’m telling this because i have experienced that

  • shyryn

    oh sorry allyson!!! this comment is not actually for u……….really v v v v v  sorry for this….

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