Washington Dental Assistant Schools & Training Programs
About Dental Assistant Careers in Washington
Dental assistants work under the supervision of a dentist. They perform important administrative and clinical tasks. The demand for dental assistants is increasing as dentists take on more and more work.
Dental Assistant Salaries in Washington
Dental assistant earnings vary according to experience and qualifications. The average expected salary for a dental assistant in Washington is $47,000 per year. Dental assistants in Washington earn an average of 15% more than the average salary nationwide. A newly qualified dental assistant can expect to earn approximately $11.55 per hour, with experience this can increase to over $20 per hour.
Educational Requirements
Many dental assistants learn on the job however, an increasing number are being trained in colleges, trade schools or technical institutes offering dental assisting programs. High school students interested in a career in dental assisting should complete courses in chemistry, health, biology and office practices. Students wishing to pursue further education can complete a 1 year diploma or a two year program with a community or junior college. A two year program will lead to an associate’s degree.
Job Outlook
Dental assistants are in great demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that, until the year 2016, the number of available dental assistant positions will exceed the number of qualified candidates. This is good news for anyone considering entering this field.
Roles and Responsibilities of Dental Assistants
Dental assistants are mostly found working in private offices for one or more dentists. Other opportunities exist for employment in clinics, hospitals, schools or with a public health department. A dental assistant needs to have a diverse skill set due to the wide variety of tasks they need to perform. A dental assistant’s responsibilities can include:
• Answering the telephone and scheduling appointments
• Ordering supplies
• Billing and collections
• Welcoming patients and making them feel comfortable
• Preparing patients for the dentist’s examination
• Maintaining patient records
• Organizing and handing instruments to the dentist during consultations
• Performing X-rays
• Operating the suction hose to ensure patients’ mouths are kept dry during procedures
• Prepare materials like fillings and cements
• Instruct patients on postoperative care
• Advise patients on oral hygiene
Most dental assistants will also need to perform laboratory tasks such as cleaning lab equipment and making lab impressions and casts.
Schools in Washington
Everest College
Everest Colleges, Institutes and Universities provides postsecondary education programs that prepare students for careers in some of America’s fastest growing industries, including health care, business and technology. Everest takes a very personal approach to career education, offering small classes, intimate work groups and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, Everest’s Career Services department is there to provide ongoing career coaching and help locating local employment opportunities. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Carrington College
Carrington College®, a recognized leader in private education, opened in 1976 and currently provides practical, real-world education to more than 4,000 students annually. Carrington College® offers small classes with hands-on learning taught by experienced faculty.
Charter College
Charter’s philosophy is to direct you not only to the highest level of academic achievement and performance, but also strives to nourish your personal and professional growth. We have an obligation to you and a potential employer in this community to produce competent graduates who can succeed in an ever-changing, richly diverse workplace.
Concorde Career College
With over 15 years of experience in preparing adults for rewarding careers, Concorde is a recognized leader in training Healthcare Professionals. We offer short, manageable programs with day and evening classes to fit your busy schedule.
Heald College
Heald College provides hands-on educational programs that can help students prepare for careers in healthcare, business, legal and technology. Heald takes a very personal approach to career education, offering small classes, intimate work groups and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, Heald provides career services assistance for life. We help locate employment opportunities anytime throughout our graduates’ careers. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. High school diploma or GED required.