Employers
Approximately 376,500 dental assistants are employed in the United States. Most dental assistants work full time, but approximately one in three work part time, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Dental assistants are most likely to find employment in dental offices, whether it be a single dentist or a group practice with several dentists, assistants, and hygienists. Other places dental assistants may find jobs include dental schools, hospitals, public health departments, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Public Health Service hospitals.
Starting Out
High school counselors, family dentists, dental schools, dental placement agencies, and dental associations may provide applicants with leads about job openings. Students in formal training programs often learn of jobs through school career services offices.
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