Dental Assisting - A Good Career Choice?
Hourly Rate Survey Report for Job: Dental Assistant
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Recent Releases
June 14, 2008 - Waukesha Freeman
Hartland, WI (May 1, 2008) - By: Grant A. Lemke D.D.S.
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that between the years 2006 and 2016 the total number of dentists must increase in America by 79,287 to serve the demands of the U.S. population. However, the number of dentists graduating in the U.S. has declined by 30% over the past 10 years.
James A. Saddoris, D.D.S., a past president of the American Dental Association stated,"By the year 2005, it is predicted that only 3700 graduates will be leaving our dental schools each year." He was correct. By estimating 10 years of graduates, one can see that there will be a 47% shortfall in the number of dentists - as only 37,000 will graduate and 79,287 are needed. It is easy to see a looming problem solved by graduating more dentists, more dental assistants, or both.
The above statistics assume that all in the dental profession work full time. However, approximately 33% of dental assistants work part time and many dentists are nearing retirement, further escalating the labor shortage. For dental assistants this is all good news. As the chart below shows, dental assistant incomes are currently $23,000 to $35,000 per year - with upside wage potential.
Currency: USD | Updated: 3/26/2008 | Individuals reporting: 2,982
Keep in mind that along with long-term career stability, most positions offer benefits, continuing education, and flexible hours in a local job market and dental assisting is a good choice for those looking to move to other parts of the country. In addition, there are little or no weekends or holidays to work.
Dental assistants have been a vital member of the dental treatment team for over 100 years and their future will last as long as there are dentists. Maybe you can see yourself in this respected, caring profession.
