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Chair Side Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Abel Dental Care

Be Seen First

Dental Assistant

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Greet patients, chair side assist, take digital x-rays, infection control procedures, instrument preparation & sterilization, clean & set up operatory, coronal polishing, ordering & stocking back ...

Charles B. Wang Community Health Center

$19.75 - $26/hr

Act as a chair-side assistant to the dentist utilizing accepted four-handed dental techniques * Use accepted dental radiographic techniques and produces diagnostic radiographs * Perform basic dental ...

Anchorage Dental Arts

Dental Assistant

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Salary: $15-$30 hourly DOE Seeking a chair side assistant who is enthusiastic about dentistry, able to connect well with people and is excited to contribute to a positive team culture. Essential for ...

Near North Health

Dental Assistant

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

One year experience as a chair side assistant preferred. * One year experience in ordering and maintaining supplies preferred. * New Dental Assistants are welcomed to apply. Expertise: * Extensive ...

Near North Health

Dental Assistant

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$15.77 - $18.80/hr

One year experience as a chair side assistant preferred. * One year experience in ordering and maintaining supplies preferred. * New Dental Assistants are welcomed to apply. Expertise: * Extensive ...

Quality Staffing

Dental Assistant

Loudon, TN · On-site

$17/hr

This role will involve working as a chair-side assistant during examination and treatment of patients and will be exposing and developing radiographs. Dental Assistant Job Duties will include:

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Chair Side Assistant information

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How much do chair side assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for chair side assistant in the United States is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Chair Side Assistant vs Dental Assistant?

AspectChair Side AssistantDental Assistant
CertificationsOften requires dental assisting certification or CDA credentialTypically requires dental assisting certification or CDA credential
Work EnvironmentAssists dentists during procedures, works in dental officesSupports dental team, manages patient records, sterilizes equipment
Job DutiesPrepares treatment rooms, hands instruments, assists during proceduresPatient prep, sterilization, administrative tasks, assisting during procedures

Both Chair Side Assistants and Dental Assistants work in dental offices, often share certifications, and support dental procedures. The main difference lies in the focus: Chair Side Assistants primarily assist during treatments, while Dental Assistants have broader responsibilities including administrative tasks. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Who gets paid more, MA or DA?

In dental practices, a Dental Assistant (DA) generally earns less than a Medical Assistant (MA), as MAs often work in medical settings with higher average wages. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications for both roles. DAs typically require specific dental training and certifications, while MAs often need medical office skills and certification programs.

What are Chair Side Assistants?

Chair Side Assistants, also known as dental assistants, work directly with dentists during patient examinations and treatments. They help by preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, handing tools to the dentist, and ensuring the treatment area remains clean and organized. Additionally, they may take dental x-rays, manage patient records, and provide support to ensure procedures run smoothly and efficiently. Their role is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for both patients and dental professionals.

What is the highest paying dental assistant?

The highest paying dental assistants typically work in specialized practices or in regions with higher cost of living, earning salaries that can exceed $50,000 annually. Advanced certifications, experience, and additional skills such as radiography or sedation assistance can also lead to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chair Side Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chair Side Assistant, you need a solid understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and dental terminology, often supported by a dental assistant certificate or diploma. Familiarity with dental software, digital X-rays, and sterilization equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient dental procedures, patient comfort, and a safe clinical environment.

What is a chair side assistant?

A chair side assistant is a dental assistant who works directly with the dentist during patient procedures, passing instruments, managing patient comfort, and ensuring the treatment area is prepared. They need good communication skills, knowledge of dental tools, and often assist with sterilization and record-keeping.

What are some typical challenges a Chair Side Assistant might face during a busy clinic day, and how can they manage them effectively?

Chair Side Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patients simultaneously, adapting quickly to changes in the dentist's schedule, and ensuring all instruments and materials are properly sterilized and ready. Effective time management and clear communication with both the dental team and patients are key to overcoming these challenges. Staying organized and anticipating the dentist's needs can also help maintain a smooth workflow, especially on high-volume days.

Why do people quit dental assisting?

People quit dental assisting often due to job stress, physical demands, or limited advancement opportunities. The role can involve long hours, repetitive tasks, and exposure to dental materials, which may lead to burnout or dissatisfaction over time.
More about Chair Side Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Chair Side Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Chair Side Assistant job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Chair Side Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chair Side Assistant jobs are:
Chair Side Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chair Side Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Full Time, and 84% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,296 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Dental Assistant

Abel Dental Care

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

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Job description

Greet patients, chair side assist, take digital x-rays, infection control procedures, instrument preparation & sterilization, clean & set up operatory, coronal polishing, ordering & stocking back office supplies, patient appointment scheduling, patient education & communication.