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Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Active Dental

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Plano, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Active Dental is growing, and we are looking for a motivated, energetic, and positive individual to join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant! We are a well-established general practice with ...

Active Dental

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Plano, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Active Dental is growing, and we are looking for a motivated, energetic, and positive individual to join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant! We are a well-established general practice with ...

Active Dental

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Irving, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Active Dental is growing, and we are looking for a motivated, energetic, and positive individual to join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant! We are a well-established general practice with ...

Active Dental

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Plano, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Active Dental is growing, and we are looking for a motivated, energetic, and positive individual to join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant! We are a well-established general practice with ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Brockton, MA · On-site

$21 - $26/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: $21 - $26 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Brockton, MA · On-site

$21 - $26/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: $21 - $26 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Lavale, MD · On-site

$17 - $21/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: $17 - $21 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Gadsden, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/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: $16 - $19 / hour Job Type ...

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Entry Level Dental Assistant information

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How much do entry level dental assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant 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 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 basic knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by a dental assisting certification. Familiarity with dental software, digital X-ray systems, and sterilization equipment is typically expected in this role. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a calm, patient-focused demeanor help you excel in assisting both dentists and patients. These skills ensure efficient dental operations, patient comfort, and compliance with safety standards in a clinical environment.

How to get started as a dental assistant?

To start as an entry-level dental assistant, complete a high school diploma or equivalent, then pursue a dental assisting program or certification, which can be completed in months. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in patient care, infection control, and dental software are important steps to enter the field.

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 adapting to the fast-paced environment of a dental clinic, mastering infection control protocols, and learning the preferences of different dentists. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the variety of instruments and procedures at first, but most clinics provide hands-on training and mentorship. Building strong communication skills and attention to detail will help you succeed and grow more confident in your role over time.

What Does an Entry-Level Dental Assistant Do?

As an entry-level dental assistant, you have numerous responsibilities in a dental office. You primarily focus clerical and administrative duties, such as scheduling patients for appointments, filing medical records, filling out billing invoices and insurance reimbursement forms, and ensuring that the office inventory is adequate. However, you also have clinical duties in which you assist the dentist with routine tasks. You sterilize tools, prepare the exam rooms, provide suction during teeth cleaning and other procedures, help make the patients comfortable, conduct simple lab tests, and take x-rays and process them.

Is it better to be a CDA or RDA?

A Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) is a credential that demonstrates competency in dental assisting, while a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) is a state-specific license or registration required in some regions. Both roles involve assisting with patient care and procedures, but RDA licensure often requires passing a state exam and meeting specific requirements, which can impact job opportunities and scope of practice.

What are entry level dental assistants?

Entry level dental assistants are professionals who support dentists and dental hygienists in clinical and administrative tasks, typically at the beginning of their careers. Their duties often include preparing examination rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting during dental procedures, and managing patient records. They usually work under the supervision of more experienced dental staff and receive on-the-job training. Entry level dental assistants play a critical role in ensuring efficient dental office operations and patient care.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dental Assistant vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectEntry Level Dental AssistantDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, dental assisting certificationAssociate degree in dental hygiene, licensure
Work EnvironmentDental offices, assisting dentistsDental offices, patient cleanings and exams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon entry role in dental practicesMore advanced, patient-focused role in dental practices

Entry Level Dental Assistants typically require a high school diploma and certification, working closely with dentists to prepare patients and assist during procedures. Dental Hygienists, on the other hand, need an associate degree and licensure, focusing on patient oral health assessments and cleanings. While both roles work in dental offices, Dental Hygienists have more advanced responsibilities and require additional education and licensing.

Can dental assistants make $30 an hour?

Entry-level dental assistants typically earn less than $30 an hour, with wages often starting around $15 to $20 per hour. However, with experience, certifications, and additional skills, some dental assistants can reach or exceed $30 an hour, especially in high-demand areas or specialized practices.

Is it hard to be a dental assistant with no experience?

Becoming an entry-level dental assistant with no experience is generally manageable, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as communication, organization, and a willingness to learn are important, and obtaining a certification like the DANB Certified Dental Assistant can improve job prospects. Most new assistants start with supervised tasks and gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience.
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Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs near you
Entry-Level Dental Assistant

Entry-Level Dental Assistant

Stadler Dental Care

Columbus, NE • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Are you an ambitious and driven individual eager to kick-start your career in dentistry? Well, look no further than Stadler Dental Care! Our Columbus, NE practice is seeking a motivated full-time Entry-Level Dental Assistant to join our dynamic team. If you have a genuine passion for dentistry, a hunger for knowledge, and a desire to grow both personally and professionally, this is the job for you! Read on to learn more.


PAY AND PERKS

In addition to earning $18.00 - $22.00/hour, depending on experience, you also enjoy these wonderful benefits and perks:

  • AFLAC
  • Paid holidays
  • Dental benefits
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Dentistry discounts for immediate family
  • Uniform allowance

As for your schedule, you can expect to work from 7:45 am - 5:30 pm, Monday - Thursday and from 6:45 am - 12:30 pm, Friday.

Join us today and start advancing your dentistry career!


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Can-do attitude and a strong work ethic
  • Willingness to learn and motivation to grow

While not required, dental experience or Spanish fluency would be a bonus. X-ray or coronal polishing certifications would also be a plus. Do you have a friendly demeanor and a desire to help others? Are you highly organized and detail-oriented? Can you manage your time efficiently? If so, you could be the Entry-Level Dental Assistant we're looking for!


AVERAGE DAY

As an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you embark on a journey of continuous growth. From assisting our experienced dentist chairside to sterilizing instruments and preparing patients for procedures, you are an integral part of our team. Your curiosity and enthusiasm fuel your desire to learn more about dental procedures, techniques, and patient care.


ARE YOU READY TO JOIN US?

At Stadler Dental Care, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. Our team is passionate about creating healthy smiles and building lasting relationships within our community. We strive for excellence in everything we do and deliver personalized care in a warm and welcoming environment. When you join us, you become a part of a team that is committed to making a positive impact. You have the satisfaction of knowing your work helps improve the health and well-being of countless people in our area.

Take your first step towards an exciting future in dentistry as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant at Stadler Dental Care. With competitive compensation, enticing benefits, and a supportive work environment, this is your chance to excel and reach new heights in your career! Apply today!


Job Posted by ApplicantPro