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Dental Assistants
Description
Assist dentist, set up equipment, prepare patient for treatment, and keep records.
Common Tasks
- Fabricate and fit orthodontic appliances and materials for patients, such as retainers, wires, or bands.
- Order and monitor dental supplies and equipment inventory.
- Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures.
- Expose dental diagnostic x-rays.
- Record treatment information in patient records.
Required Education
Postsecondary non-degree award
Wages
In 2016 the mean hourly wage in the Greater Sacramento area was $19.86 . The hourly rate for this occupation typically paid between $13.02 and $28.14 .
In 2016 the mean annual salary in the Greater Sacramento area was $41,319.74 . The annual salary for this occupation typically paid between $27,074.01 and $58,543.09 .
Occupation Outlook
This occupation employed 2,930 people in the Greater Sacramento area during 2014.
By 2024, there is expected to be an increase of 16.0% in the number of jobs in the Greater Sacramento area for this occupation, bringing to total number to 3,400.
By 2024, in the Greater Sacramento area, the median hourly rate for this occupation is expected to be $19.00 with the median annual salary reaching $40,820.
