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Entry Level Dental Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Dental assistant

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Proven experience as a Dental Assistant in a busy clinic environment (Entry-level candidates with strong clinical training may be considered). Technical Skills: Proficiency with Dentrix, Eaglesoft ...

Posted today

Dental assistant

Corona, CA

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

This is a great opportunity for both entry-level candidates and experienced assistants looking for flexible hours in a supportive, professional environment. Title Dental assistant Clinical Duties ✔ ...

Dental assistant

Mira Loma, CA

$17 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

Proven experience as a Dental Assistant in a busy clinic environment (Entry-level candidates with strong clinical training may be considered). Technical Skills: Proficiency with Dentrix, Eaglesoft ...

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Entry Level Dental information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do entry level dental jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental in Riverside, CA is $21.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level dental jobs?

Entry level dental jobs are positions in the dental field that require minimal prior experience or education, making them ideal for individuals just starting their dental careers. Common roles include dental assistant, dental receptionist, and sterilization technician. These jobs typically involve helping dentists and hygienists with patient care, managing appointments, and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dental office. Entry level dental jobs often provide on-the-job training and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions in dentistry.

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 a basic understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and dental terminology, often gained through a dental assisting program or on-the-job training. Familiarity with dental radiography, patient management software, and sterilization equipment is typically required, and certification (such as the CDA) may be preferred. Strong attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to work well in a team make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring patient safety, effective support for dentists, and a positive experience for patients.

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 adjusting to a fast-paced clinical environment, mastering the use of dental equipment, and efficiently assisting with a variety of dental procedures. Building effective communication skills with both patients and the dental team is essential, as is learning to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, such as sterilizing instruments and updating patient records. However, with strong mentorship and on-the-job training, most new dental assistants quickly adapt and grow more confident in their abilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dental and Entry Level Dental Assistant?

AspectEntry Level DentalEntry Level Dental Assistant
CertificationsNone required or basic certificationsCPR certification often required
Work EnvironmentDental clinics, officesDental clinics, offices
Job ResponsibilitiesGeneral support, patient prep, administrative tasksAssisting dentists, sterilizing instruments, patient care
Industry UsageBroadly used for entry-level roles in dentistrySpecific role within dental practice

Entry Level Dental typically refers to a broad entry-level position in the dental industry, often involving administrative or general support tasks. Entry Level Dental Assistant is a specific role focused on assisting dentists with clinical tasks and patient care. While both roles are entry-level and share work environments, Dental Assistants usually require specific certifications like CPR and have more hands-on clinical responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dental jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Dental jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Dental jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Dental job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Dental job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,967 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

$22 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Dental Assistant Instructor

Success Education Colleges (SEC) is a family of institutions that includes North-West College, Glendale Career College, Nevada Career Institute, and Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing. For more than 58 years, SEC has provided quality, affordable allied health education, helping students build rewarding careers in healthcare.

Career Site: www.success.edu/careers-with-sec

About the Role

Are you passionate about dental assisting and mentoring future professionals? We are seeking a Dental Assistant Instructor to develop and deliver engaging classroom and laboratory instruction that prepares students for successful careers in dental offices. This role also supports student externships, placement activities, and program development.

Schedule

Monday through Thursday | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Key Responsibilities

  • Teach and supervise students in classroom, laboratory, and dental office training environments.
  • Develop and maintain curriculum, lesson plans, student performance objectives, and program outcomes.
  • Oversee laboratory instruction, ensuring a safe, interactive, and supportive learning environment.
  • Coordinate and supervise student externship sites and training experiences.
  • Assist with student placement activities.
  • Track student progress and submit attendance, grades, training hours, and required reports accurately and on time.
  • Manage program materials and supply requests within approved budgets.
  • Establish and maintain an advisory committee of dental industry professionals, including at least one annual meeting.
  • Attend faculty and staff meetings as required.
  • Follow all college policies and perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years of experience as a Dental Assistant.
  • Graduate of an accredited Dental Assistant Program.
  • Currently certified as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) or licensed dentist.
  • Proficient in four-handed and/or six-handed dentistry principles.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Strong knowledge of dental procedures, terminology, ethics, confidentiality, records, charts, and forms.
  • Understanding of instructional methods and techniques for entry-level dental assistant training.
  • Knowledge of employment trends and career pathways in dental assisting.
  • Ability to develop educational goals, lesson plans, and student performance objectives.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and classroom management skills.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively engage diverse learners.
  • Experience using audio-visual and instructional technology.

Success Education Colleges is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).