Are you considering a career as a dental assistant but wondering about the earning potential? Look no further!
In this article, we’ll answer the burning question on every aspiring dental assistant’s mind: How much money do dental assistants make an hour?
As one of the fastest-growing occupations in the healthcare industry, dental assisting offers a range of opportunities and competitive salaries in Canada.
So, whether you’re a curious job seeker or a seasoned dental assistant looking to boost your earning potential, read on to discover all you need to know about dental assistant salaries!
What is a Dental Assistant?
A dental assistant is a healthcare professional who works alongside dentists and provides support during various dental procedures in a dental office, including preparing patients for treatment, taking X-rays, sterilizing instruments, and assisting the dentist during procedures.
They may also perform administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing. Dental assistants work under the supervision of dentists and may work in various settings, including private dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and dental schools.
Duties of a Dental Assistant:
The duties of a dental assistant include:
- Preparing patients for treatment: Dental assistants greet patients, take their medical histories, and ensure they are comfortable before the start of any procedure.
- Sterilizing and maintaining dental instruments: Dental assistants sterilize and maintain dental instruments to ensure they are safe to use during procedures.
- Assisting the dentist during procedures: Dental assistants assist the dentist during procedures by passing instruments, suctioning, and performing other tasks as needed.
- Taking and developing dental X-rays: Dental assistants take dental X-rays and develop them for the dentist to use in diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Educating patients on proper oral hygiene: Dental assistants educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash.
- Scheduling appointments and managing patient records: Dental assistants manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance claims.
- Ordering and managing dental supplies: Dental assistants order and manage dental supplies, ensuring the office has everything needed to provide quality care.
Providing post-operative care: Dental assistants provide post-operative care instructions to patients and may also follow up with patients after treatment to ensure they heal properly.
Salary of a Dental Assistant
According to Indeed Canada, a dental assistant earns on average $73071 per year, which equates to $22.17 an hour, and $229 per day!
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Get the skills towards a career in Dental AssistingThis program helps to prepare students to provide the services of a certified dental assistant as outlined in the BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCHOP)* Bylaws under the Health Professions Act of British Columbia.
- Competitive salary
- Health insurance
- Retirement savings plans
- Paid time off
- Continuing education opportunities
- Employee discounts
- Job security
Dental Assistants Job Outlook
The job outlook for dental assistants in Canada is also positive, with steady growth expected in the coming years. According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, employment growth for dental assistants is expected to be good in most provinces and territories, with job openings arising from both new job creation and retirements.
In addition, the aging population in Canada is one factor contributing to the demand for dental services and thus the need for dental assistants. Technological advancements in dentistry are leading to new procedures and techniques, which require more skilled and educated dental assistants.
However, according to the Job Bank, the demand for dental assistants is highest in Ontario, followed by British Columbia and Alberta. There are opportunities for dental assistants in all provinces and territories.
Therefore, the job outlook for dental assistants in Canada is positive, and those who have completed a recognized dental assisting program and obtained certification are likely to find employment opportunities in the field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dental assisting is a rewarding career choice with a competitive salary and remarkable packages!
Whether you are just starting or looking to advance your career, a career in dental assisting can provide both financial stability and personal fulfillment. We are glad that you chose us to learn how much do dental assistants make an hour and we hope that this article was of some use to you.
