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Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Jackson, MI · On-site

$19 - $22/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: $19 - $22 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Troy, AL · On-site

$15 - $17/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 - $17 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Sedalia, MO · On-site

$15 - $18/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 - $18 / hour Job Type ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Visalia, CA · On-site

$20/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: $20 / hour Job Type: Full-Time At ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Medina, OH · On-site

$14 - $16/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: $14 - $16 / 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 Jul 4, 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 often be completed in less than a year. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or on-the-job training and obtaining certification, such as the DANB Certified Dental Assistant credential, can improve job prospects and prepare you for working with dental tools and patient care in a dental office.

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.

How much does a dental assistant start out at?

Entry-level dental assistants typically start with an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $20, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with certifications, experience, and additional skills such as chairside assisting or radiography.

Is it hard to get a dental assistant job?

Entry level dental assistant positions are generally accessible to those with a high school diploma and relevant certifications, such as CPR. Competition can vary by location and demand, but gaining experience through internships or certifications can improve chances of employment in this field.

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.

What is an entry level dental assistant?

An entry level dental assistant is a professional who provides support in dental offices by preparing patients, sterilizing equipment, and assisting the dentist during procedures. Typically, this role requires basic training or certification and offers on-the-job learning opportunities to develop skills in patient care and dental procedures.
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Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs near you

Entry Level Dental Assistant

Family Care Dental

Fultondale, AL

$10 - $13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Be an early applicant

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