How Much Does a Dental Assistant make?

Dental Assistant made a median salary around $53,367 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $58,661 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $47,827. 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 Los Angeles, California

Receptionist/ Dental Assistant

SANTA ROSA DENTAL OFFICE - Brea, CA

Dental Assistant - Full-time

Aspen Dental - Stockton, CA

Dental Assistant - Oral Surgery

Aspen Dental - Stockton, CA

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Best-Paying Cities for Dental Assistant

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Dental Assistant profession are San Jose , Santa Clara , Saratoga , Sunnyvale , Los Gatos .
San Jose, CA $60,122
Santa Clara, CA $60,122
Saratoga, CA $60,122
Sunnyvale, CA $60,122
Los Gatos, CA $60,122

Best-Paying States for Dental Assistant

The states and districts that pay Dental Assistant the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $53,319) , California (around $52,840) , New Jersey (around $52,505) , Alaska (around $52,170) , and Massachusetts (around $52,122) .
District of Columbia $53,319
California $52,840
New Jersey $52,505
Alaska $52,170
Massachusetts $52,122

What is the Career Path of Dental Assistant?

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 can also turn to other related jobs, including Dental Assistant or , Dental Assistant (Certified) , Radiology Dental Assistant and Dental Assistant 2 .

Frequently Asked Questions for Dental Assistant

Q: What is the salary range of Dental Assistant in Los Angeles, CA?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Dental Assistant in Los Angeles, CA earned an average annual salary of $47,827 , while the highest-paid made $58,661.
Q: What is the salary for a Dental Assistant in California?
A: Dental Assistant employed in California earned an average salary of $52,840 in 2024.

Average Dental Assistant Pay vs. Other Jobs

Dental Assistant earned an average salary of $53,367 in 2024. Other jobs related to Dental Assistant earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Dental Assistant or made $53,367 , Dental Assistant (Certified) made $53,000 , Radiology Dental Assistant and Dental Assistant 2 made $51,069 and $49,564 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant or - Average Salary $53,367
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 $53,000
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 $51,069
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 $49,564
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.
Pediatric Dental Assistant - Average Salary $50,594
There is currently no job description for Pediatric Dental Assistant, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Pediatric Dental Assistant.