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Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Dental hygienist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$53 - $58/hr

... Assist in coordinating patient flow within the clinic to optimize operational efficiency and ... Experienced Dental Hygienist (1+ years) * X-ray / Radiography Certification Entry-level candidates ...

Office Assistant

Waterford, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

... Office Assistant to assist with entry level accounting, titling, and other miscellaneous ... 1.5%. * Dental & Vision Coverage * Company paid Short Term Disability & Life Insurance, LTD ...

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Entry Level Dental Assistant information

See Racine, WI salary details

$11

$18

$26

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant in Racine, WI is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $21.20 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.
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Racine, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Racine, WI are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings:
Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Aspen Dental

Brookfield, WI • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Aspen Dental rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 464 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

668th of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working with a world-class dental service organization (DSO). Our best-in-class training program, generous benefits package, and flexible scheduling will help you thrive in your career. 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 - $21 / hour

Job Type:Full-Time

At Aspen Dental, we put You First. We offer:

  • A pathway for you to become a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) to maximize your career potential
  • Part-time, Full-time, flexible scheduling available*
  • Paid training to become radiology and safety certified through our partnership with the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
  • Paid time off and holidays, Health, Vision, and 401(k) savings plan
  • Free Continuing Education (CE) through TAG U

How You'll Make a Difference

As an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you will help support the clinical needs of the practice's patients and doctors. You will have the support and training you need to help you be successful, no matter your level of expertise. We are committed to promoting from within to allow you to expand your career and your life. You can help make a difference in your community one smile at a time.

  • Assist during a variety of treatment procedures
  • Set up and breakdown operatory post treatment
  • Manage infection control - prepare and sterilize instruments and equipment
  • Supports patient charting for Doctors
  • Perform various office tasks as necessary
  • Collaborate with other members of the dental team to provide exceptional patient care

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Obtain your radiology and safety certification within the required timeframe for the state of practice
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients of all ages and backgrounds
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development

Aspen Dental-branded practices are independently owned and operated by licensed dentists. The practices receive non-clinical business support services from Aspen Dental Management, Inc., a dental support organization.

*May vary by independently owned and operated Aspen Dental locations.

ADMI Corp., d/b/a TAG-The Aspen Group, its affiliates, related companies and independently owned supported clinical practices are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers and welcome everyone to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.


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