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Chair Side Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A-Team Dental Staffing LLC

Dental Assistant

San Jose, CA

$21 - $27.50/hr

Serves as the dental providers chair-side assistant. Prepares operatories for patient treatment as per the dental providers directions. Sets up, takes and confirms that dental radiographs are ...

Sedgwick County

Dental Assistant - HEALTH

Wichita, KS

$17.04/hr

Dental Assistant Technical Certificate, two years of experience as a chair-side assistant, or any equivalent combination of experience and training. CPR certification. Per Sedgwick County policy ...

Sedgwick County

Dental Assistant - HEALTH

Wichita, KS

$17.04/hr

Dental Assistant Technical Certificate, two years of experience as a chair-side assistant, or any equivalent combination of experience and training. CPR certification. Per Sedgwick County policy ...

Sedgwick County

Dental Assistant - HEALTH

Wichita, KS · On-site

$17.04/hr

Dental Assistant Technical Certificate, two years of experience as a chair-side assistant, or any equivalent combination of experience and training. CPR certification. Per Sedgwick County policy ...

Signature Family Dentistry

Dental Assistant II

Angier, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Serves as dentist's chair-side assistant including delivering instruments and materials for dentist's access. * Maintains dental department equipment and work areas in compliance with policies and ...

FENWAY HEALTH

Dental Assistant

Boston, MA

$22.62 - $25.38/hr

Serves as dentist's or dental hygienist's chair-side assistant * Prepares operatory for patient treatment as per Dental Department protocols and the dentist's or dental hygienist's directions

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How much do chair side assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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, RDA or CDA?

Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) typically earn higher wages than Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) because RDAs have completed additional training and are licensed to perform more advanced procedures. Salary differences can vary by location, experience, and employer, but generally, RDA certification leads to higher pay in dental practices. Both roles require certification or licensing, and wages are influenced by skills, certifications, and work environment.

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 does a chairside assistant do?

A chairside assistant supports dentists during patient procedures by preparing and sterilizing instruments, passing tools, and ensuring patient comfort. They also handle tasks such as taking X-rays, updating patient records, and maintaining a clean treatment area, often requiring knowledge of dental procedures and infection control protocols.

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 the highest paying dental assistant position?

The highest paying dental assistant positions typically include specialized roles such as orthodontic or oral surgery assistants, who often earn higher wages due to additional skills and certifications. Lead or office manager roles in dental practices can also offer higher salaries, especially with experience and advanced training.

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 often leave dental assisting jobs due to factors such as physically demanding work, low pay, limited advancement opportunities, and high stress levels. Job dissatisfaction can also stem from poor work environments, long hours, or inadequate support from employers.
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Chair Side Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chair Side Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,296 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Registered Dental Assistant | Dental Assistant

A-Team Dental Staffing LLC

Dublin, CA

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Amazing opportunity to grow with an established yet expanding General Practice. We are searching for some who is a go getter and eager to keep advancing in their career and keep up with the latest technology. This is a four to five day a week Wedneday through Sunday from 10:00am until 6:00pm.

We are welcoming both New Grads or Experianced. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Assists patients in completing forms, answering their questions and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist or hygienist. Serves as the dental providers chair-side assistant.

Prepares operatories for patient treatment as per the dental providers directions. Sets up, takes and confirms that dental radiographs are accurate as ordered. Places varnishes as ordered and directed.

Follows OSHA infection control guidelines and RFD infection control policies and procedures. Maintains dental equipment and areas in accordance with manufacturers' directions and Dental Department policy and protocol. Maintains adequate operatory supplies and compiles a list of individual item shortages for inventory control and ordering purposes.

Assists dental providers in assuring that all patient records and documents are properly and accurately completed and filed. Assists with various clinical and administrative functions as appropriate. Ensures the proper disposal of all materials in accordance with Dental Department directive, center policy, as well as state and federal regulation(s).

Other duties as assigned and requested. Requirements High School diploma or GED required. Certificate of completion from an accredited course in dental assisting with completed internship Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency required.

California Radiation Safety Certificate. Current BLS (CPR) Certification. Exceptional customer service skills.

Benefits Medical after 90 Days

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