What is higher than a dental assistant?
What is higher than a dental assistant?
Becoming a dental assistant is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to start a career in healthcare. But it’s also an incredible stepping stone. Many people use dental assisting as the foundation for higher positions that offer greater pay, more responsibility, and long-term career growth. If you’re wondering what comes after dental assisting, there are several rewarding paths to consider—each one building on the skills and experience you already have.
1. Dental Hygienist
The next major step up from dental assisting is becoming a dental hygienist. Hygienists perform more advanced clinical work such as teeth cleanings, oral health assessments, and patient education. They often work more independently than assistants and earn significantly higher salaries.
Average Salary: $85,000–$105,000 in New York City
Education Needed: Associate or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene (2–4 years)
Why It’s Worth It: Dental hygienists enjoy flexible schedules, job stability, and the ability to build long-term patient relationships.
2. Dental Office Manager
If you enjoy the organizational and leadership side of dental work, becoming a dental office manager is a natural next step. Office managers oversee staff scheduling, patient billing, supply orders, and daily operations. Many start as dental assistants before moving up into management.
Average Salary: $65,000–$90,000 in NYC
Skills Needed: Leadership, communication, financial management, and office software experience
Why It’s Worth It: Office managers have strong earning potential and play a crucial role in keeping the clinic running smoothly.
3. Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
Some states allow experienced dental assistants to earn certification as Expanded Function Dental Assistants, giving them more clinical responsibility. EFDAs can place fillings, apply sealants, and perform advanced chairside procedures under a dentist’s supervision.
Average Salary: $60,000–$75,000
Education Needed: Additional coursework and certification beyond standard dental assisting
Why It’s Worth It: This role increases your income and gives you more clinical independence while staying in the assisting field.
4. Dental Lab Technician
If you enjoy hands-on, detailed work, you can transition into dental laboratory technology, creating crowns, dentures, and orthodontic appliances.
Average Salary: $50,000–$70,000
Education Needed: Specialized training in dental lab technology
Why It’s Worth It: It allows you to stay in the dental field but focus more on craftsmanship and design.
5. Dentist
Some dental assistants decide to take the ultimate step—becoming a dentist. With years of experience in the field, they already understand patient care, dental procedures, and office dynamics.
Average Salary: $170,000–$220,000+
Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree
Why It’s Worth It: Becoming a dentist offers independence, leadership, and the highest level of responsibility in oral healthcare.
6. Dental Sales or Product Representative
Some experienced dental assistants transition into dental product sales or training roles with companies that supply equipment and materials to clinics.
Average Salary: $70,000–$120,000 with commissions
Why It’s Worth It: This career path uses your dental knowledge in a business-oriented role with travel and networking opportunities.
Why Dental Assisting Is the Perfect Starting Point
Dental assisting opens the door to multiple career levels in healthcare. It gives you real clinical experience, industry knowledge, and professional connections—all of which can help you climb higher in the dental field. Schools like The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants in Long Island City train students not just for a first job, but for long-term career success in dentistry.
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.
Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!
