Dental Assistant Salary Information
How Much do Dental Assistants Make?
The salary of a dental assistant can vary based on a number of factors including geographic location, years of experience, and level of education and certification. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2020, the median annual wage for dental assistants in the United States was $41,180. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,940, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $59,790.
The BLS also reported that the highest-paying industries for dental assistants were outpatient care centers, followed by dental offices and offices of physicians. Additionally, dental assistants in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than those in non-metropolitan areas.
It’s worth noting that the salary for dental assistants can also increase with additional education and certification. For example, dental assistants who become certified in expanded functions, such as coronal polishing or placing dental sealants, may be eligible for higher salaries.
Dental assisting can be a rewarding and stable career with competitive pay and opportunities for growth.
Dental Assistant Salary Information by State
| State | Hourly Average Wage | Annual Average Wage | Highest Annual Wage (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama Dental Assistant Salary | $ 17.19 | $ 35,760 | $ 47,360 |
| Alaska Dental Assistant Salary | $ 24.35 | $ 50,640 | $ 61,000 |
| Arizona Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.17 | $ 41,950 | $ 48,190 |
| Arkansas Dental Assistant Salary | $ 16.80 | $ 34,930 | $ 44,980 |
| California Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.15 | $ 46,060 | $ 60,460 |
| Colorado Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.02 | $ 43,730 | $ 60,100 |
| Connecticut Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.18 | $ 46,130 | $ 60,110 |
| Delaware Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.49 | $ 44,690 | $ 61,150 |
| District of Columbia Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.09 | $ 45,950 | $ 61,040 |
| Florida Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.63 | $ 40,820 | $ 48,110 |
| Georgia Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.17 | $ 39,860 | $ 47,290 |
| Hawaii Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.20 | $ 37,860 | $ 47,230 |
| Idaho Dental Assistant Salary | $ 17.43 | $ 36,250 | $ 46,780 |
| Illinois Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.39 | $ 42,400 | $ 55,090 |
| Indiana Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.01 | $ 41,630 | $ 56,500 |
| Iowa Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.33 | $ 44,360 | $ 60,010 |
| Kansas Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.43 | $ 38,330 | $ 47,660 |
| Kentucky Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.35 | $ 38,160 | $ 47,890 |
| Louisiana Dental Assistant Salary | $ 16.14 | $ 33,560 | $ 46,830 |
| Maine Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.14 | $ 43,960 | $ 49,340 |
| Maryland Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.35 | $ 44,410 | $ 60,420 |
| Massachusetts Dental Assistant Salary | $ 24.62 | $ 51,210 | $ 61,870 |
| Michigan Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.08 | $ 39,680 | $ 47,930 |
| Minnesota Dental Assistant Salary | $ 25.52 | $ 53,080 | $ 61,170 |
| Mississippi Dental Assistant Salary | $ 17.39 | $ 36,170 | $ 58,390 |
| Missouri Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.25 | $ 40,030 | $ 47,580 |
| Montana Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.78 | $ 39,060 | $ 47,950 |
| Nebraska Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.68 | $ 40,930 | $ 47,550 |
| Nevada Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.28 | $ 38,020 | $ 48,120 |
| New Hampshire Dental Assistant Salary | $ 23.79 | $ 49,470 | $ 60,670 |
| New Jersey Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.14 | $ 43,980 | $ 57,680 |
| New Mexico Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.17 | $ 37,790 | $ 47,620 |
| New York Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.59 | $ 44,910 | $ 60,550 |
| North Carolina Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.31 | $ 44,320 | $ 59,890 |
| North Dakota Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.97 | $ 47,780 | $ 60,280 |
| Ohio Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.89 | $ 43,440 | $ 60,200 |
| Oklahoma Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.79 | $ 39,070 | $ 47,580 |
| Oregon Dental Assistant Salary | $ 23.45 | $ 48,780 | $ 60,220 |
| Pennsylvania Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.94 | $ 43,540 | $ 60,850 |
| Rhode Island Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.15 | $ 46,070 | $ 60,110 |
| South Carolina Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.29 | $ 40,120 | $ 48,480 |
| South Dakota Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.20 | $ 42,010 | $ 48,070 |
| Tennessee Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.83 | $ 39,160 | $ 48,150 |
| Texas Dental Assistant Salary | $ 18.45 | $ 38,370 | $ 47,470 |
| Utah Dental Assistant Salary | $ 16.93 | $ 35,210 | $ 38,220 |
| Vermont Dental Assistant Salary | $ 21.75 | $ 45,230 | $ 59,300 |
| Virginia Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.95 | $ 43,570 | $ 61,060 |
| Washington Dental Assistant Salary | $ 22.29 | $ 46,350 | $ 60,940 |
| West Virginia Dental Assistant Salary | $ 17.71 | $ 36,830 | $ 48,230 |
| Wisconsin Dental Assistant Salary | $ 20.34 | $ 42,310 | $ 49,040 |
| Wyoming Dental Assistant Salary | $ 19.78 | $ 41,140 | $ 48,510 |
What are the Salaries of Different Types of Dental Assistants?
There are different types of dental assistants, each with varying levels of education, experience, and responsibilities. Here are the estimated salaries of some of the most common types of dental assistants in the United States, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2020.
Entry-level Dental Assistant
Entry-level dental assistants typically have a high school diploma or GED, and they receive on-the-job training. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for entry-level dental assistants was $39,290.
Certified Dental Assistant
Certified dental assistants have completed an accredited dental assisting program and have passed a certification exam. The median annual wage for certified dental assistants was $43,270, according to the BLS.
Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
Expanded functions dental assistants (EFDA) have received additional training and certification to perform certain clinical procedures, such as placing fillings or performing coronal polishing. The median annual wage for EFDA was $48,540, according to the BLS.
Orthodontic Assistant
Orthodontic assistants work with orthodontists to help diagnose and treat malocclusions and other orthodontic issues. The median annual wage for orthodontic assistants was $41,130, according to the BLS.
Dental Administrative Assistant
Dental administrative assistants handle non-clinical tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and processing insurance claims. The median annual wage for dental administrative assistants was $39,770, according to the BLS.
It’s important to keep in mind that these are median salaries and that actual salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and level of education and certification.
What Type of Dental Assistants Make the Most Money?
Expanded Functions Dental Assistants (EFDAs)
Expanded Functions Dental Assistants (EFDAs) typically make the most money among different types of dental assistants. EFDAs have completed additional training and certification to perform more advanced clinical tasks, such as placing fillings or performing coronal polishing, which allows them to earn higher salaries than other dental assistants.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2020, the median annual wage for EFDAs was $48,540, while the median annual wage for entry-level dental assistants was $39,290 and the median annual wage for certified dental assistants was $43,270.
oral surgery assistants
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2020, the median annual wage for oral surgery assistants was $49,890.
It’s worth noting that salaries for oral surgery assistants may vary based on the specific duties and responsibilities of their role. Oral surgery assistants typically work with oral surgeons to assist in procedures such as tooth extractions, dental implants, and jaw surgery.
Orthodontic Assistants
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2020, the median annual wage for orthodontic assistants was $41,130.
Orthodontic assistants typically work with orthodontists to help diagnose and treat malocclusions and other orthodontic issues. They may perform tasks such as taking impressions, placing braces, and instructing patients on proper oral hygiene practices. Orthodontic assistants who have received additional training and certification in specialized areas such as clear aligner therapy or lingual braces may be eligible for higher salaries.
What Are the Highest Paying States for Dental Assistants?
| State | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 48,090 | $ 22.15 | $ 46,060 |
| Texas | 33,040 | $ 18.45 | $ 38,370 |
| Florida | 21,390 | $ 19.63 | $ 40,820 |
| New York | 19,930 | $ 21.59 | $ 44,910 |
| Illinois | 12,340 | $ 20.39 | $ 42,400 |
What Are the Top Paying Metropolitan Areas for Dental Assistants?
| Metropolitan area | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 21,340 | $ 21.83 | $ 45,410 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 15,740 | $ 20.84 | $ 43,340 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | 11,110 | $ 18.81 | $ 39,120 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | 9,800 | $ 20.98 | $ 43,630 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 7,780 | $ 18.00 | $ 37,430 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL | 7,600 | $ 18.95 | $ 39,420 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ | 6,870 | $ 20.58 | $ 42,810 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 6,400 | $ 25.16 | $ 52,330 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 6,030 | $ 19.96 | $ 41,520 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 5,980 | $ 26.51 | $ 55,150 |
How Can I Increase my Salary As a Dental Assistant?
Obtain additional education and certification
One of the most effective ways to increase your salary as a dental assistant is to obtain additional education and certification. For example, becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) can help you qualify for higher-paying positions and perform more advanced clinical tasks.
Specialize in a specific area
Specializing in a specific area such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry can also help you increase your salary. These specialized areas typically require additional training and certification, but they can lead to higher-paying positions.
Find the right practice
Dental practices in cities or urban settings generally offer higher pay than practices in less populated areas. The type of practice can also make a difference. Some specialty practices, such as oral surgery, are known for offering higher salaries because of the specific knowledge their dental assistants need.
When starting a new job or negotiating a salary increase, it’s important to do your research and know your worth. Research the average salary for dental assistants in your area with similar levels of education and experience, and be prepared to negotiate for a higher salary.
Look for opportunities in high-paying industries
Dental assistants who work in outpatient care centers or for specialty dental practices such as orthodontics or oral surgery tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in general dentistry practices.
Expand your Skillset
Another way to increase your salary as a dental assistant is to expand your skillset and take on additional responsibilities. For example, you may be able to learn new software programs or take on administrative tasks such as managing patient records or coordinating appointments. This can make you more valuable to your employer and may lead to opportunities for promotion or salary increases.
How Much More Do Dental Assistants Make If They Have a Certification?
Dental assistants who have a certification typically earn higher salaries than those who do not. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2020, the median annual wage for certified dental assistants was $43,270, while the median annual wage for dental assistants without certification was $38,660. This represents a difference of approximately $4,610 per year.
4 dental assistant salary insights from DANB’s (Dental Assisting National Board) latest survey
1. The upward trend in pay for Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) persists
The salary of Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) can vary based on location, experience, and practice type. However, this year’s survey showed that CDAs earn a median hourly wage of $24.00, which marks an 8.6% increase from the previous year’s salary survey where the median hourly wage was $22.09. This upward trend in pay for CDAs has continued throughout the years, as shown by the following data:
- 2008: $18.00
- 2010: $18.50
- 2012: $18.60
- 2014: $19.00
- 2016: $20.46
- 2018: $20.76
- 2020: $22.09
- 2022: $24.00
2. Numerous dental assistants have been granted pay increases over the past year
With the expanded duties taken on by dental assistants, there is a growing desire for higher pay. This demand has been fueled by factors such as inflation and the shortage of dental assistants, further amplifying the need for increased wages.
As a response, many dental practices are now offering raises to their staff. According to DANB’s survey, 53% of dental assistants received a raise within the past year, with 75% receiving one within the last two years. The median pay increase was in the range of $1-2 per hour.
3. Temp and travel dental assistants make slightly more
Due to challenges such as staffing shortages, the field of dental assisting has seen the emergence of new opportunities. Some dental assistants have taken temporary positions at practices with staffing needs, while others have pursued travel dental assisting.
Despite the median pay for full-time Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) being $24.00 per hour, those working as temp CDAs earn $24.74 per hour on average, while traveling CDAs earn $25.00 per hour on average.
4. Certificants receive more benefits
DANB certificants receive more benefits than non-certified dental assistants, in addition to their salaries. The most common benefits provided to Certified Dental Assistants are paid vacation (84%), paid holidays (83%), retirement savings plans (64%), health insurance (56%), and free or reduced-fee dental care (53%).
While the top five benefits are the same for non-certified dental assistants, they are not as widespread, with paid holidays (65%), paid vacation (62%), health insurance (49%), free or reduced-fee dental care (45%), and retirement savings plans (42%) being less commonly provided.
How Much More Do Dental Assistants Make Over Time?
Dental assistants may earn higher salaries over time as they gain experience and advance in their careers. The exact amount of increase can vary based on several factors, including geographic location, level of education and certification, and type of dental practice.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for dental assistants in May 2020 was $41,180. However, dental assistants who have been working in the field for several years may be able to command higher salaries.
| Years of Experience | Hourly wage |
| 1-4 | $14.15 |
| 5-9 | $17.57 |
| 10-19 | $19.30 |
| 20+ | $20.69 |
Additional Monetary Benefits of a Dental Assistant
Health insurance: Many employers offer health insurance benefits to their employees, including pharmacy technicians. This may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, and may be partially or fully paid for by the employer.
Overtime pay
Dental assistants who work more than 40 hours in a week may be eligible for overtime pay, which is typically time-and-a-half of their regular hourly rate.
Bonuses
Some dental practices may offer bonuses to dental assistants who meet certain performance metrics or work a certain number of hours.
Profit sharing
Dental practices may offer profit-sharing programs that allow employees to share in the financial success of the practice.
Health insurance
Many dental practices offer health insurance benefits to their employees, which can help offset the cost of medical expenses.
Retirement savings plans
Dental practices may offer retirement savings plans such as 401(k) or IRA accounts, which can help dental assistants save for their future.
Paid Time Off
Dental assistants may be eligible for paid time off for vacation, sick leave, or personal time.