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Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Kettler

Maintenance Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$20/hr

Overview KETTLER currently has an opening for an entry level Maintenance Assistant at The Pointe at ... Health, Dental, Vision insurance; Life Insurance; Prescription coverage * Tax-Advantaged Spending ...

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All JobsDental JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Dental Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$19

$27

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level dental assistant?

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.

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.

What are the qualifications of an entry level dental assistant?

Entry level dental assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may complete a dental assisting program or certification. Basic skills in communication, organization, and familiarity with dental tools and procedures are important, and some states require licensure or certification such as the DANB Certified Dental Assistant credential.

What is an entry level dental assistant?

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 I get an entry level dental assistant job with no experience?

Entry level dental assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. Having a high school diploma, good communication skills, and completing a dental assisting program or certification can improve your chances of securing such a role.

How easy is it to get hired as an entry level dental assistant?

Getting hired as an entry level dental assistant is generally accessible, especially for candidates with a high school diploma and basic knowledge of dental procedures. Employers often seek candidates with good communication skills, a willingness to learn, and certification such as CPR. Job openings are common in dental practices, and on-the-job training is typically provided.
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What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings:
Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,964 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Dental Assistant - DA I New Grads Onboarding!

Village Dental

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level Dental Assistant - Career Development Track

Are you a recent dental assistant graduate excited about patient care and ready to grow your career? Interested in dental hygiene school down the road or exploring other paths in dentistry? Join Village Dental Family & Sedation Care - where we build careers, not just fill positions.

Why this role

  • Choose your path: prepare for hygiene school, refine chairside skills, transition to treatment coordination, pursue leadership, or explore other clinical/administrative roles.
  • Hands-on learning: our Preceptorship & Career Development Program offers one-on-one mentorship, real-world experience, and clear advancement steps.
  • Supportive environment focused on developing motivated, high-performing dental professionals.

About us: https://youtu.be/cIN6OZKLq7U

Benefits

  • 4-day work week
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Health insurance
  • Complimentary dental care
  • 401(k) plan
  • Village Dental uniforms and swag

Qualifications

  • Graduate of a DA I program (required)
  • X-ray certification (required)
  • Warm, professional presence in person and on the phone
  • Clear communicator with a service-oriented mindset
  • Able to multitask, take initiative, and anticipate team and patient needs
  • Reliable and punctual; available at least 35 hours per week
  • Team player with enthusiasm, humor, and respect for others

Ready to start your dental career with a path for growth? Apply now.

Apply