Under the direct, personal supervision of a dentist, registered dental assistants perform a variety of support functions as part of the dental team. Examples of services:
- gather preliminary medical histories and vital signs
- patient education
- place and/or remove dressings and other materials during dental procedures
- apply topical cavity-preventing and desensitizing agents
- take dental impressions
- select and pre-fit provisional crowns and orthodontic bands
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: $48,372 in NY
Salary range: $37,914 - $56,116
Projected growth: much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Private and group practice
Military
Hospitals, nursing homes, and other health centers
Colleges and universities
Anywhere a dentist works
Your Interests and Abilities
Preparation in the sciences
Analysis and reasoning
Hands-on experiences
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Attention to detail
Communication
Manual and technical dexterity
Education
Earn a high school diploma, or the equivalent
AND
Complete a Department-registered registered dental assisting licensure program, or the equivalent
Examination
Dental Assisting National Board or New York Professional Dental Assisting examination.
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a registered dental assistant about what they do and how they got started!
