Entry-Level Dental Assistant

If you are someone who feels happy and satisfied by helping others then you can pursue a career that combines your passion with the opportunity for personal growth and professional development will not be wrong.

And for this, a career as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant might be the perfect fit.

In this article, we will cover different aspects of an Entry-level dentist assistant.

So, let’s start and learn everything about an entry-level dental assistant.

Know more:

What is a Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Skills
Dental Assistant Duties

What is an Entry-Level Dental Assistant?

Let’s start with what an entry-level dental assistant does.

Whenever you visit a dental office you must see a person who welcomes you to the doorstep, get your things ready for treatment, and assist dentists during the dental procedures. That person is an entry-level dental assistant.

They also perform various administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and organizing patient information. Dental assistants are essential for keeping the dental office running well and are a big part of the entire healthcare team.

Know more:
Dental Administrative Assistant
Dental Assistant Vs Medical Assistant
Registered Dental Assistant

Entry-Level Dental Assistant Salary

The salary for an entry-level dental assistant can vary based on where they work and how much experience they have.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, In 2020, the average yearly pay for Entry-level Dental Assistants was about $40,080. In general, it’s a pretty good starting salary.

Remember, as you get more experience and learn more, you can make even more money.

Read more:
Dental Assistant Salary
Dental Assistant Job Description
Dental Assistant Requirements

What Are the Qualifications of an Entry-Level Dental Assistant?

To become an entry-level dental assistant, you need to meet specific qualifications that will prepare you for the job and help you boost your career prospects.

Qualifications for an entry-level dental assistant typically include the following three points:

a. High School Diploma (Minimum Education): In the USA, most dental assistant positions require candidates to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED).

A high school level is essential as it provides the basic skills and knowledge necessary for you to be successful in an entry-level dental assistant role.

b. Formal Dental Assistant Education: Many employers prefer candidates to have completed a formal dental assistant education program. You can get these programs at any college, vocational school, or dental school where the duration of these programs ranges from several months to a year.

Getting a formal education provides you with all the essential knowledge and hands-on training required to perform the duties of an entry-level dental assistant.

c. NELDA Certification by DANB (Dental Assisting National Board): While certification requirements in the USA can vary by state, becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through DANB is a valuable credential that can enhance job prospects and earning potential for dental assistants.

The NELDA (National Entry Level Dental Assistant) certification, offered by DANB, is specifically conducted for entry-level dental assistants.

But how to earn this certification?

To earn NELDA certification, candidates must pass three component exams:

Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam: This exam assesses knowledge of radiation safety and radiography techniques, which are important for taking dental X-rays safely and effectively.

Infection Control (ICE) Exam: This exam tests knowledge of infection control protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of both patients and dental staff.

Read more about:
Is Dental Assistant a Good Career?
What do you need to be a dental assistant?
Day in the Life of a Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Tools

General Chairside (GC) Exam: This exam evaluates knowledge and skills related to chairside dental assisting, including assisting with dental procedures, instrument setup, and patient care.

Once you clear the NELDA exam, you become an entry-level dental assistant.

Conclusion

In simple terms, becoming an entry-level dental assistant is a great job choice who want a good start along with a stable job in healthcare. It pays well, where you can have an easy livelihood and you can grow in your career.

If you like helping people with their dental health and working in a team, you should think about becoming an entry-level dental assistant.

Additional Sources:

Dental Assistant Skills Resume
Surgical Dental Assistant
Chairside Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Qualifications
Can a Dental Assistant Become a Dentist?
What education is required to be a dental assistant?
How much is dental assistant school
Expanded Function Dental Assistant
Orthodontic Dental Assistant
Is Dental Assistant School Hard?
Is Dental Assistant a Good Job?
Dental Assistant Instrument Names
Dental Assistant Internship & Externship
Lead Dental Assistant
Certified Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Degree
Dental Assistant Resume
Dental Assistant Training