Start a career in Dental Assisting
Approved by the California Board of Dental Examiners, this two-semester (starts in fall and ends in spring) program provides technical skills needed for employment in a dental office. The student develops skills to participate as a member of the dental health team in general chairside and specialty procedures, office management, and x-ray techniques.
Why Choose a Career in Dental Assisting?
Dental assistants are in huge demand all over the nation. It is anticipated that dental assisting will be among the fastest growing occupations. This means you will have job opportunities available almost anywhere you choose to live. Being a dental assistant will allow you to decide if you want to pursue a career as a lab technician, dental hygienist, or a dentist. You will get to see first-hand what such jobs entail.
According to the talent.com website, The average dental assistants salary in Santa Maria, CA is $46,088 per year or $22.16 per hour. Entry level positions start at $44,333 per year while most experienced workers make up to $54,328 per year. A dental assistant may work in private practice either in general dentistry or a specialty such as:
- Periodontics
- Oral surgery
- Endodontics
- Pedodontics
- Orthodontics
- Prosthodontics
Other areas of employment include community clinics, government agencies including federal or state hospitals, armed service dental clinics, dental supply sales, and dental school clinics.
For questions regarding certification contact:
Dental Board of California
2005 Evergreen St. Suite 150
Sacramento, CA 95815
916-263-2300
www.dbc.ca.gov
Allan Hancock College Dental Assisting program is approved by the Dental Board of California.