Dental Assistant Jobs in New York City: Salary, Requirements, and Career Outlook (2025 Guide)
Dental Assistant Jobs in New York City: Salary, Requirements, and Career Outlook (2025 Guide)
New York City is one of the best places in the country to start a career as a dental assistant. With hundreds of dental practices, hospitals, and specialty clinics, demand for dental assistants continues to grow. The role offers strong pay, career stability, and advancement opportunities—all without the need for a four-year college degree.
Dental Assistant Job Market in NYC
There are consistently hundreds of job openings for dental assistants across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Major employers include NYC Health + Hospitals, NYU Langone Health, Columbia University dental clinics, and private dental practices.
Both entry-level roles with paid training and experienced dental assistant positions are available. Some clinics also hire for specialized roles, such as orthodontic and surgical dental assistants.
Salary for Dental Assistants in NYC
Dental assistants in New York City earn higher-than-average wages compared to many other U.S. cities:
Hourly Pay: $20–$30+ per hour depending on experience and certifications.
Annual Salary: Typically ranges from $45,000 to $60,000, with top positions paying $65,000 or more.
Certified Dental Assistants (CDA): Those with DANB certification often earn 10–15% more than non-certified assistants.
This makes dental assisting one of the best-paying healthcare support jobs in NYC without a college degree.
Job Requirements in New York State
To work as a licensed dental assistant in NYC, you must:
Complete an accredited dental assisting program (CODA or NYS-registered).
Pass the DANB exams (such as CDA, RHS, and ICE) or New York State-specific exams.
Apply for licensure through the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
Unlicensed dental assistants can sometimes work in entry-level roles under direct dentist supervision, but expanded functions and long-term career growth require state licensure.
Career Growth Opportunities
Working as a dental assistant in NYC can lead to higher-level positions, including:
Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
Dental Hygienist (with further schooling and licensing)
Office Manager or Clinical Supervisor in larger practices
This makes dental assisting a strong career ladder option in healthcare.
Why Choose Dental Assisting in NYC?
Strong job demand across public hospitals and private practices
Competitive pay compared to national averages
Low barrier to entry—no college degree required, only licensing
Career stability in one of the most in-demand healthcare roles
For those looking to enter healthcare quickly and build a long-term career, dental assistant jobs in New York City are an excellent choice in 2025.
Also, if you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
Sources and Job Search Links
NYSED: Dental Assistant Licensing Requirements
