According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Dental Assistant employment is expected to increase much faster than average; job prospects are expected to be excellent."

Dental Assistants are important members of the dental health team. Dental Assistants greatly increase the efficiency of the dentist in delivery of quality oral health care. You must be a team-oriented individual who enjoys working with people.

This career is for you if you have good hand/eye coordination, like working on a schedule and seek satisfaction in helping others. Specific tasks may be performed such as: assisting with and providing direct patient care including helping the patient feel comfortable before, during and after treatment, taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays), sterilizing instruments, taking impressions, and performing office management tasks. Dental Assistants also communicate with other health care professionals, dental suppliers, business contacts, and insurers.

Upon graduation and licensure, you will find that employment positions are available in dental offices, hospitals, clinics, dental schools and professional sales. Dental Assisting offers variety, flexibility, excellent working conditions, and personal satisfaction. 

Current Salaries in the Los Angeles Area are $17.00 – $30.00 per hour depending on licensing and expereince. National salaries Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319091.htm