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Student Dental Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Loma Linda University Health

Dental Assistant 2

Loma Linda, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Dental Assistant 2 performs chair side assisting of undergrad students and graduate students with dental procedures and patient management. Maintains clinic cleanliness, opens and locks up clinic ...

PDS Health

Dental Assistant Extern

Irvine, CA

$19 - $26.25/hr

Formal Externship Application & Student Agreement * Background Check * Once all items are completed, you will be notified that you are cleared to start your externship. PDS Health is an Equal ...

PDS Health

Dental Assistant Extern

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Formal Externship Application & Student Agreement * Background Check * Once all items are completed, you will be notified that you are cleared to start your externship. PDS Health is an Equal ...

PDS Health

Dental Assistant Extern

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Formal Externship Application & Student Agreement * Background Check * Once all items are completed, you will be notified that you are cleared to start your externship. PDS Health is an Equal ...

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All JobsStudent Dental JobsStudent Dental Assistant JobsStudent Dental Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Student Dental Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do student dental assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for student dental assistant 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 is a student dental assistant?

Student dental assistants are individuals who are currently enrolled in a dental assisting program and work in dental offices or clinics as part of their training. They support dentists and dental hygienists by preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, and assisting during dental procedures. This hands-on experience helps students gain practical skills and fulfill requirements needed to become certified dental assistants after graduation.

What are the typical responsibilities of a student dental assistant?

As a Student Dental Assistant, you will be involved in a variety of hands-on tasks during your clinical rotations, such as preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting dentists during procedures, taking dental impressions, and providing patient education on oral hygiene. You may also handle administrative duties like scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records. These experiences are designed to build your practical skills, help you adapt to the pace of a dental office, and prepare you for working as a fully qualified dental assistant after graduation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student dental assistant?

To thrive as a Student Dental Assistant, you need a basic understanding of dental terminology, infection control, and chairside assisting techniques, often obtained through a dental assisting program or on-the-job training. Familiarity with dental instruments, digital radiography, and patient management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a willingness to learn help set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting dental procedures efficiently, ensuring patient comfort, and maintaining a safe clinical environment.

What is the difference between Student Dental Assistant vs Dental Assistant?

AspectStudent Dental AssistantDental Assistant
CredentialsTypically in training or enrolled in dental assisting programsCertified or licensed, with completed training
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, dental schools, or internshipsDental offices, clinics, or hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions or training programsPrivate practices, dental clinics, healthcare facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles or training statusCompared for professional, paid roles in dentistry

In summary, a Student Dental Assistant is typically in training or education, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Dental Assistant is a certified professional working independently in dental practices. The main difference lies in certification status and work experience.

Can a college student work as a student dental assistant?

Yes, college students can work as student dental assistants if they meet the required age, educational prerequisites, and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR or dental assisting courses. These roles often involve supporting dental staff with patient care, sterilization, and office tasks, typically during flexible hours that accommodate student schedules.

Can you be a student dental assistant without any experience?

Student dental assistants typically do not need prior experience, as training is often provided on the job or through educational programs. Basic skills such as good communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are important, and some programs may require a background check or health certifications. Experience can be gained through internships or entry-level positions in dental offices.

What are popular job titles related to Student Dental Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Student Dental Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Student Dental Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Dental Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Student Dental Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Student Dental Assistant job openings:

Student Dental Assistant jobs near you

Dental Assistant Instructor

Success Education Colleges

Pomona, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 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).

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