How Much Do Dental Assistants Make?

Sep 28

How Much Do Dental Assistants Make?

Dental assisting can provide a relatively quick path into a healthcare career, but one of the first questions prospective students ask is: How much do dental assistants make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistants had a median annual wage of $48,070 in May 2025, while the mean annual wage was approximately $50,200. The national median hourly wage was $23.11.

Actual earnings can vary substantially depending on location, experience, education, certifications, employer and the responsibilities of the position.

Dental Assistant Salary in the United States

Wage measureMay 2025Median annual salary$48,070Mean annual salary$50,200Median hourly wage$23.11Lowest 10% annual wageLess than $37,130Highest 10% annual wageMore than $62,250

The median is often the most useful number for understanding what a typical worker earns because half of dental assistants earn more and half earn less.

The BLS reports that most dental assistants work in dental offices, although dental assistants can also work in other healthcare settings.

What Affects Dental Assistant Salary?

Experience is one important factor. An entry-level dental assistant may earn less than an experienced assistant who has developed advanced clinical, radiographic or administrative skills.

Location can also make a major difference. Dental assistants working in major metropolitan areas may have different wages than those working in smaller communities. However, salary should always be considered alongside the local cost of living.

Education and professional credentials can also help candidates qualify for positions with greater responsibility. Employers may look for training in areas such as infection control, radiography, chairside assisting and dental office procedures.

Is Dental Assisting a Good Career to Start?

For people interested in healthcare but who do not want to spend several years pursuing a college degree, dental assisting can be an accessible career path.

Dental assistants work directly with dentists and patients and can perform a combination of clinical and administrative duties depending on their training and state requirements.

The BLS also projects employment for dental assistants to grow from 2025 through 2035, with thousands of openings expected each year.

How Can You Increase Your Earning Potential?

A strong foundation in dental assisting is the starting point. From there, continuing education, professional credentials, additional clinical skills and experience can help a dental assistant qualify for different positions.

For someone considering the profession, the most important first step is finding a dental assisting program that provides hands-on education and prepares students for the realities of working in a dental office.

NYSMDA provides dental assisting education for students preparing to enter the dental field in New York City.