Dental assistants enjoy many of the same benefits as dental hygienists, such as great financial compensation, flexibility and job security. While dental assistants make less than both hygienists and dentists, it is an excellent entry level position for those looking to break into the dental health field. About 25% of dental assistants go on to become dental hygienists.

Dental assistant salary can vary greatly depending on the employer, geographical location of the practice, experience and certifications. A person starting out on the field with experience of less than a year will earn a lower dental assistant salary than a more experienced assistant. Typically the range is $11.10- $22.80 per hour or a yearly range of $23,080-$47,420.This is according to the Bureau of Labor statistics.

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The short version: Dental hygienist salary can range anywhere from $17 per hour up to $60+ per hour.

The long version: Dental hygiene can be a very rewarding career choice, both personally and financially. Dental hygienists’ salary may be what draws people to the field initially, but soon after they realize what a positive impact can be made to their local community. By helping to maintain good oral health of those in your community, you are helping others to lead longer, happier lives as recent studies have linked poor dental hygiene with life-threatening diseases such as diabetes, and many forms of heart disease.

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