Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
Most assistants learn their skills on the job, though many are trained in dental assisting programs offered by community and junior colleges, trade schools, and technical institutes. Some assistants are trained in Armed Forces schools. Assistants must be a dentist's "third hand"; therefore, dentists look for people who are reliable, can work well with others, and have manual dexterity. High school students interested in careers as dental assistants should take courses in biology, chemistry, health, and office practices.

Job Outlook:
Employment of dental assistants is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. It is projected that by the year 2005, there will be about 254,000 dental assistants. Population growth, higher incomes, and greater retention of natural teeth by middleaged and older people will fuel demand for dental services. Also, dentists are likely to employ more assistants, for several reasons. Older dentists, who are less likely to employ assistants, will leave and be replaced by recent graduates, who are more likely to use one, or even two. In addition, as dentists' workloads increase, they are expected to hire more assistants to perform routine tasks, so they may use their own time more profitably.

Sources of Additional Information:

Information about career opportunities, scholarships, accredited dental assistant programs, and requirements for certification is available from: