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Dental Assistants Career Outlook

April 29, 2020

dental assisting students are training with dental equipment

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U.S. News & World Report publishes an annual report listing the best jobs in the country. The report evaluates jobs on criteria including job growth, median salary, job prospects, employment rate, stress level and work-life balance. In its annual “100 Best Jobs” report for 2020, Dental Assistants ranked #66.

Depending on the dental practice and the state in which they work, dental assistants have many responsibilities. These can include:

  • Clinical and administrative tasks
  • Updating patient records
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Taking x-rays
  • Passing instruments as procedures are being performed

dental assisting students are training with dental equipment

Why the Demand for Dental Assistants is Rising

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for dental assistants is projected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028. There are several reasons why BLS expects the need for qualified Dental Assistants to increase.

Changing attitudes

Recent research indicates a link between good oral health and general health and wellbeing. This will likely continue to increase demand for preventive dental services, which means dentists will hire more assistants to complete routine tasks, allowing them to see more patients and spend more time on more complex procedures.

Aging population

More than ever before, people are keeping their original teeth. As the average age of the population continues to rise, the need to maintain and treat teeth will continue to increase the need for dental care.

Legislation

The Affordable Care Act requires U.S. residents to have health insurance, which is likely to increase the number of people with dental insurance, too. People with new or expanded dental insurance coverage will be more likely to visit a dentist than in the past, increasing demand for dental services.

Get the Training You Need for a Dental Assisting Career at First Institute

If you’re considering a Dental Assisting program, contact First Institute today! We can help you take the first step toward an exciting new career. For more information, call 815-459-3500.

 

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