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Entry Level Dental Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Texarkana, TX · On-site

$15.50/hr

When you join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give back to communities and positively affect patients' lives. Salary: $15.50 / hour Job Type: Full-Time ...

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How much do entry level dental jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental in the United States is $20.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level dental jobs?

Entry level dental jobs are positions in the dental field that require minimal prior experience or education, making them ideal for individuals just starting their dental careers. Common roles include dental assistant, dental receptionist, and sterilization technician. These jobs typically involve helping dentists and hygienists with patient care, managing appointments, and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dental office. Entry level dental jobs often provide on-the-job training and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions in dentistry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Dental Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Dental Assistant, you need a basic understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and dental terminology, often gained through a dental assisting program or on-the-job training. Familiarity with dental radiography, patient management software, and sterilization equipment is typically required, and certification (such as the CDA) may be preferred. Strong attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to work well in a team make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring patient safety, effective support for dentists, and a positive experience for patients.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dental and Entry Level Dental Assistant?

AspectEntry Level DentalEntry Level Dental Assistant
CertificationsNone required or basic certificationsCPR certification often required
Work EnvironmentDental clinics, officesDental clinics, offices
Job ResponsibilitiesGeneral support, patient prep, administrative tasksAssisting dentists, sterilizing instruments, patient care
Industry UsageBroadly used for entry-level roles in dentistrySpecific role within dental practice

Entry Level Dental typically refers to a broad entry-level position in the dental industry, often involving administrative or general support tasks. Entry Level Dental Assistant is a specific role focused on assisting dentists with clinical tasks and patient care. While both roles are entry-level and share work environments, Dental Assistants usually require specific certifications like CPR and have more hands-on clinical responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level dental assistants during their first year on the job?

Entry-level dental assistants often encounter challenges such as adjusting to a fast-paced clinical environment, mastering the use of dental equipment, and efficiently assisting with a variety of dental procedures. Building effective communication skills with both patients and the dental team is essential, as is learning to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, such as sterilizing instruments and updating patient records. However, with strong mentorship and on-the-job training, most new dental assistants quickly adapt and grow more confident in their abilities.
More about Entry Level Dental jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Dental jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Dental job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dental jobs? The most popular types of Dental jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Dental jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Dental jobs include:
Entry Level Dental jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Dental job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,143 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Family Care Dental

Fultondale, AL • On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Expanding Birmingham family dental practice needs an entry-level Dental Assistant at our Fultondale office. No experience necessary, we are happy to train the right person. Great pay, and bonuses available! Our office needs an out- going, enthusiastic, team player, that has excellent people skills. If you are a self-motivated people person, come join our team. We have a fun working environment and our number one priority is to satisfy our patients. We are quickly growing and expanding our facilities and employment growth and promotions will be available within our company. Our office is newly renovated, has paperless charting, and digital radiography. We market heavily in the community, so we are expecting to grow quickly.
Skills/ education: Applicant must be proficient in computer skills. Our office is paperless- all patient charting is completed on open dental practice management software. Prior dental software not required. Dental software training will be provided if applicant is hired.
Job duties include taking X-rays, sterilizing equipment, cleaning rooms, and providing support to lead dental assistants. Pay will be reevaluated within 90 days and will increase based on learned skills.
Openings available: Fultondale, and Hoover!
Spanish/English encouraged NOT required. 
Job Type: Full-time