How Much Does a Dental Assistant make?

Dental Assistant made a median salary around $45,962 in April, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $50,519 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $41,189. 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 North Carolina

Dental Hygiene Practitioner

MORE Dental Solutions - Raleigh, NC

Dental Hygiene Practitioner

Charlotte Dental Associates - Charlotte, NC

Dental Hygiene Practitioner

Moores Chapel Dentistry - Charlotte, NC

Dental Hygiene Practitioner

Carolina Complete Dentistry - Charlotte, NC

download asset banner
Facing Salary Structure Challenges? Let Our Expert Guide You
The job market is increasingly challenging. Our whitepaper, Navigating the Challenges of Creating Salary Structures, offers guidance on creating salary structures. Provide your phone number and work email to download the full version.
We will handle your contact details in line with our Privacy Policy. If you prefer not to receive marketing emails from Salary.com, you can opt-out out of marketing communications at any time by clicking unsubscribe.

Best-Paying Cities for Dental Assistant

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Dental Assistant profession are Cary , Garner , Knightdale , Raleigh , Apex .
Cary, NC $47,481
Garner, NC $47,481
Knightdale, NC $47,481
Raleigh, NC $47,481
Apex, NC $47,437

Best-Paying States for Dental Assistant

The states and districts that pay Dental Assistant 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?

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) , Pediatric Dental Assistant and Dental Office Assistant .

Frequently Asked Questions for Dental Assistant

Q: What is the salary range of Dental Assistant in North Carolina?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Dental Assistant in North Carolina earned an average annual salary of $41,189 , while the highest-paid made $50,519.
Q: What is the salary for a Dental Assistant in California?
A: Dental Assistant employed in California earned an average salary of $53,348 in 2025.

Average Dental Assistant Pay vs. Other Jobs

Dental Assistant earned an average salary of $45,962 in 2025. Other jobs related to Dental Assistant earned the following average salary in April, 2025. Dental Assistant or made $45,962 , Dental Assistant (Certified) made $39,700 , Pediatric Dental Assistant and Dental Office Assistant made $37,864 and $40,362 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant or - Average Salary $45,962
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 $39,700
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.
Pediatric Dental Assistant - Average Salary $37,864
There is currently no job description for Pediatric Dental Assistant, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Pediatric Dental Assistant.
Dental Office Assistant - Average Salary $40,362
There is currently no job description for Dental Office Assistant, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Dental Office Assistant.
Head Dental Assistant - Average Salary $45,263
There is currently no job description for Head Dental Assistant, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Head Dental Assistant.