How Much Does a DENTAL ASSISTANT I make?

DENTAL ASSISTANT I made a median salary around $47,128 in April, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $51,800 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $42,234. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Dental Assistant jobs in Arizona

Dental Assistant

El Rio Community Health Center - Tucson, AZ

Dental Hygienist

Canyonlands Community Health Care - Page, AZ

Registered Dental Hygienist

Peak Family Dental Care - Sedona, AZ

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Best-Paying Cities for DENTAL ASSISTANT I

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the DENTAL ASSISTANT I profession are Gadsden , San Luis , Somerton , Yuma , Cibola .
Gadsden, AZ $52,061
San Luis, AZ $52,061
Somerton, AZ $52,061
Yuma, AZ $52,061
Cibola, AZ $49,314

Best-Paying States for DENTAL ASSISTANT I

The states and districts that pay DENTAL ASSISTANT I the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $53,551) , California (around $53,348) , Massachusetts (around $52,637) , Washington (around $52,443) , and New Jersey (around $52,424) .
District of Columbia $53,551
California $53,348
Massachusetts $52,637
Washington $52,443
New Jersey $52,424

What is the Career Path of DENTAL ASSISTANT I?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

The first career path typically progresses to Dental Hygienist.
Besides, DENTAL ASSISTANT I can also turn to other related jobs, including Dental Assistant , Dental Assistant or , Dental Assistant (Certified) and Radiology Dental Assistant .

Frequently Asked Questions for DENTAL ASSISTANT I

Q: What is the salary range of DENTAL ASSISTANT I in Arizona?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid DENTAL ASSISTANT I in Arizona earned an average annual salary of $42,234 , while the highest-paid made $51,800.
Q: What is the salary for a DENTAL ASSISTANT I in California?
A: DENTAL ASSISTANT I employed in California earned an average salary of $53,348 in 2025.

Average DENTAL ASSISTANT I Pay vs. Other Jobs

DENTAL ASSISTANT I earned an average salary of $47,128 in 2025. Other jobs related to DENTAL ASSISTANT I earned the following average salary in April, 2025. Dental Assistant made $40,654 , Dental Assistant or made $47,128 , Dental Assistant (Certified) and Radiology Dental Assistant made $40,700 and $39,189 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of DENTAL ASSISTANT I

Dental Assistant - Average Salary $40,654
Assists with dental surgical and other procedures under the direct supervision of a dentist. Prepares patient and arranges instruments and supplies used for procedures. Hands instruments to the dentist and helps during treatment. Ensures all instruments are sterile and follows infection control protocols. Records treatment notes and updates patient records. May take and process x-rays. May require an associate degree in dental assisting or equivalent. Has Basic Life Support (BLS) and depending on state, may have licensing requirement. Typically reports to a dentist. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Dental Assistant or - Average Salary $47,128
There is currently no job description for Dental Assistant or, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Dental Assistant or.
Dental Assistant (Certified) - Average Salary $40,700
The Dental Assistant (Certified) prepares and arranges needed tools and instruments for scheduled procedures. Assists with oral surgery and other procedures under the direct supervision of a dentist. Being a Dental Assistant (Certified) may record findings, change barriers, or sterilize equipment. Hands necessary tools and equipment to the dentist and provides assistance during treatment. In addition, Dental Assistant (Certified) requires an associate's degree from an accredited program. Typically reports to a dentist. Working as a Dental Assistant (Certified) typically requires 1-3 years of related experience. May be entry level if some experience in the skill. Gains or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Works under moderate supervision.
Radiology Dental Assistant - Average Salary $39,189
There is currently no job description for Radiology Dental Assistant, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Radiology Dental Assistant.
Dental Assistant 2 - Average Salary $38,034
Dental assistants (also known as dental nurses) are members of the dental team. They may support a dental operator (such as a dentist or other treating dental auxiliary) in providing more efficient dental treatment. Dental assistants are distinguished from other groups of dental auxiliaries (such as dental therapists, dental hygienists and dental technicians) by differing training, roles and patient scopes.