Strong Demand for Dental Assistants
The demand for Dental Assistants is growing about twice as fast as jobs overall, according to government analysts, and like elsewhere, dentists in Kentucky and southern Indiana are looking for well-trained individuals who can step into the job ready to succeed.
As with many health sector jobs, the rising demand for Dental Assistants is linked to the growing needs of the aging Baby Boom generation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
“As the large Baby boom population ages and as people keep more of their original teeth than did previous generations, the need to maintain and treat teeth will lead to continued increases in the need for dental care,” according to the Handbook.
For that reason, the Bureau projects employment of dental assistants to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, “faster than the average for all occupations,” which are expected to grow at a more modest 4% during the same period.
“Ongoing research linking oral health and general health will continue to increase the demand for preventive dental services,” says the Bureau’s report. “Dentists will continue to hire dental assistants to complete routine tasks, allowing dentists to work more efficiently. As dental practices grow, more dental assistants will be needed.”
It’s a respected and growing occupation. And because comprehensive training can be completed in less than a year, it is especially attractive for people who want to enter the workforce quickly.
What do Dental Assistants do?
Dental Assistants handle many important tasks in a dental office and work directly with patients. They help patients get ready for procedures. They pass instruments and hold equipment such as suction hoses, matrix bands, and dental curing lights. Better trained ones also take X-rays and make temporary crowns. In short, they help the dentist take care of the patient. In many offices, a typical day might also include clerical work as well.
How much do Dental Assistants earn?
There’s a range based on the cost of living in your state and on the specialties of the dentist you work for, but according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the median pay is just over $40,000 a year.
Is it for everybody?
Experts say it’s an especially good fit for people who are detail oriented, good with their hands, careful listeners who pay attention to detail and keep themselves organized.
Where are the jobs?
Nearly all Dental Assistants work in private practices. Right now reputable, well known dental offices in Kentucky and Southern Indiana are searching for qualified students from a trusted college, graduates who are confident and have been taught using a hands-on approach. A broad range of practices hire MedQuest’s Expanded Duties Dental Assistants, among them: General and/or Cosmetic Dentistry, Pediatrics, Orthodontists, Endodontists, Periodontists and Prosthodontists.
What gives MedQuest graduates an advantage?
Graduates can show their prospective employers a Comprehensive Dental Assisting diploma, a Radiation Safety and Technique certificate, and an Expanded Duties Dental Assistant certificate.
Dentists know that MedQuest grads have had hands-on training, and that they have spent time gathering real-world experience through its externship program.
Moreover, MedQuest graduates are trained to operate X-ray equipment and take dental impressions and create models. They are qualified to apply sealants, fluoride varnish, and coronal polishing; fill cavities by placing and condensing amalgam and composite; fabricate and place temporary crowns; and record patient medical history and vital signs.
Can I get help with my job search?
Yes. MedQuest’s Career Services Director provides assistance to graduating students and alumni that include instruction in resume writing, preparation of cover letters, interviewing techniques and networking skills. The college provides job placement assistance for its graduates. Alumni in good standing may continue to use any and all placement resources indefinitely at no charge.
Is there room for advancement?
Yes. Many Dental Assistants find that it can be a great stepping stone towards becoming a dental hygienist.
How do I start?
Click here to have MedQuest contact you with more information.