Different dental jobs have different requirements. Dental assistants help the dentists with various procedures, but it is also important they make the patient feel comfortable and is able to communicate with patients, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. A dental hygienist�s primary focus is prevention, using screening and cleaning procedures to inform patients about proper oral hygiene and protect teeth and gums from decay and buildup. Dentists perform a variety of tasks including the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, conditions, and disorders of the teeth and mouth. Dentists perform surgical procedures and cosmetic dental procedures to repair or improve the appearance or structure of the oral cavity.

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Dental Professionals Salary

Salaries of dental professionals vary for dental assistants, dental hygienists and dentists.

According to Salary.com, the current median expected salary for a dental assistant is $35,107. Salary for dental assistants can vary depending on responsibilities, geographic location, and experience.

Dental hygienists salary varies depending on experience and geographic location. The average hourly wage for a dental hygienist in the United States is $26/hour, while Salary.com reported a median annual salary of $71,461.

Salaries of dentists are considerably higher as a result of advanced training and education. According to ADA Survey of Dental Practice, the average annual earnings for a dentist with a private practice is $177, 340, while a dental specialist had an average annual earnings of $300,200.

Dental Profession Job Outlook

The demand for dental assistants is currently very high as job growth is expected to be faster than average through 2014. There are many job openings for entry level assistants due to the need to replace assistants who transfer to other occupations or leave for other reasons.

The employment of dental hygienists is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through 2014, making it one of the fastest growing occupations in the United States. The job growth is attributed to the high demand for quality dental care that was previously performed by dentists.

There are approximately 150,000 dentists employed as general practitioners or specialists. Job growth for dentists is expected to grow as fast as average for all occupations through 2014. Job prospects are good for dentists that may take over an established practice or start their own.

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