ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

Primrose School

Entry-level Support Teacher

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Dental insurance * Employee discounts * Flexible schedule * Free food & snacks * Health insurance ... Support a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment for children * Assist with age ...

Southeast Medical Group

Medical Assistant II

Mcdonough, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance * Tuition Assistance * Career Development * Certification ... Computer literate with entry level working knowledge of Microsoft Suites; Outlook, Word

Southeast Medical Group

Medical Assistant II

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance * Tuition Assistance * Career Development * Certification ... Computer literate with entry level working knowledge of Microsoft Suites; Outlook, Word

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDental JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

Entry Level Dental Assistant information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$11

$19

$27

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

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant in Decatur, GA is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $22.07 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.
More about Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings:
Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs near you
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) - Metro Atlanta Area

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) - Metro Atlanta Area

Trinity Life at Home

Atlanta, GA

$17/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Trinity Life at Home

About Us: 

Trinity Life at Home was established with a passion for helping families make informed decisions when needing in-home care services for their loved one. As a leader in Private Duty Home Care services in Metropolitan Atlanta for over 15 years, we have built a reputation of integrity, compassion and excellent customer service. Our mission at Trinity Life at Home is to provide valuable and skillful in-home care with the heart of a servant. Offering solutions that allow clients to stay in their home as long as possible, we strive to provide peace-of-mind to families. We offer in-home care services tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients.

Job Summary: 

Certified Nursing Assistants, or CNAs, assist nurses and other medical staff by providing direct personal care for patients. This entry-level position is best suited for someone who genuinely cares for others’ well-being.

CNA Compensation and Benefits:

  • Pay starting at  $17/hr (Compensation is variable and depends on the type of shift/visit, day of the week and complexity of care provided.)

  • Employment is PRN.

  • We offer medical, dental and vision benefits through Cigna if you maintain FT hours (32+/wk)

 CNA Responsibilities:

  • Help clients with daily activities, including but not limited to: bathing, dressing, serving meals, helping clients eat, turning clients and ambulating clients

  • Take vital signs

  • Examine clients for bruises, blood in urine or other injuries/wounds

  • Collect information about conditions and treatment plans from caregivers, nurses, doctors and family members

  • Provide and empty bedpans

  • Lift clients into beds, wheelchairs, exam tables, etc.

  • Clean and sanitize client areas, including changing bed sheets

  • Stay up-to-date on CNA training, policies and procedures

  • Listen to clients and be prepared to respond to concerns or requests

CNA Requirements:

  • Access to reliable transportation

  • Ability to work independently and with directions

  • Compassionate and friendly demeanor

  • Valid Driver's license

  • High school diploma or GED

  • GA state CNA certification

  • Current CPR (American Heart Association) Certification

  • Proof of negative TB test within the last 12 months

  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment

  • Good communication skills and bedside manner with a compassionate personality

  • Up-to-date identification 

Trinity Life at Home  is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.


Apply