Apollo College – Dental Assisting
Apollo College has a proud tradition of helping people get a fresh start. It’s a start towards the completion of a degree, towards a better job, or towards a better and more enriching life. Campuses located in Phoenix and Tucson, AZ.
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Fortis College – Phoenix, AZ – Dental Assistant
At Fortis College you will be more than just a student number, we’re committed to your success, both in the classroom and beyond.
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Arizona College of Allied Health – Glendale, AZ – Dental Assisting
Arizona College of Allied Health (Arizona College) has been serving the Phoenix area for a decade and has a conveniently located campus in the metro Phoenix area.
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About Dental Assistant Careers in Arizona

Dental offices hire dental assistants to perform a number of different duties. The dental assistant tries to make sure the chair and environment are comfortable. They understand most people are anxious; thus, the goal of the dental assistant is to put the patient at ease. Oftentimes, the dental assistant will go get the chart, and call out dental codes to the dentist.

Furthermore, the dental assistant is involved in dental procedures. Similar to the surgical technician, the dental assistant stands near the dentist and makes sure the dentist has the proper tools. Many compare the dental assistant to a second set of hands. Precision and accuracy are important skills to master as a dental assistant. Procedures are often time sensitive; therefore, the dental assistant must quickly provide the proper tools.

Also, ordering supplies is another task the dental assistant performs. Office tasks are a part of the job descriptions of many dental assistants around the country. These employees are trained to assist in a number of important office related tasks.

Roles and Responsibilities

Dental assistants are needed to soothe the anxiety of patients. Great interpersonal skills are definitely a plus. Patients need to feel safe and comfortable during their dental visit. The dentist needs to be able to rely on the dental assistant; thus, a person who is naturally responsible works best.

Dental Assistant Salaries in Arizona

The highest paid dental assistants in Arizona are paid around $45,000. Experience usually contributes to the higher salaries. The median income for dental assistants in Arizona is 29,000 to $35,000. The lowest paid dental assistants usually do not possess formal training; their average salary is $24,000.

Educational Requirements

A dental assistant performing basic duties in Arizona is not required to be licensed. Employers tend to prefer those who have graduated from a dental assistant training program. The certificate program takes about one year to finish. It is unlikely to advance further without more education. Thus, it is advisable to obtain a dental assistant associate’s degree. A large number of junior and community level colleges offer this program.

Job Outlook

Future job prospects for dental assistants look good. More older people still have their original teeth. This trend increases the population of those needing dental care. Growth is expected to extend into the year 2018.