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| Job Placement |
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The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports
employment for dental assistants is expected to increase much faster than
average and that "job prospects are expected to be excellent." In fact,
employment is expected to grow 29 percent to the year, 2016, with many
opportunties available in private dental practices.
Salaries can vary widely, depending on location and type of practice.
Graduate exit surveys indicate salaries range up to $10 an hour locally and
increase with experience. Statewide, the average annual salary is
approximately $15 an hour as of May 2008, according to the U.S. Department
of Labor's Bureau of Labor Services. And, the American Dental Association
reports most full-time dental assistants employed by private practitioners
get paid vacation, and dental coverage.
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| The majority of dental assistants work in private dental offices. Additional opportunities lie in dental schools, private and government hospitals, state and local public health departments and clinics. Benefits vary widely by practice setting and as with most fields, may be contingent upon full-time employment. |
| TSTC Dental Assistant students use many types of equipment and computer software to gain the competitive edge. These include: |
- Dental X-ray units and radiography equipment, such as Digital Radiography;
- Treatment planning software;
- Insurance file maintenance and claims software;
- Appointment scheduling software; and more.
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| The DA program offers exposure to industry professionals through the program's Advisory Committee and contacts found in organizations such as the Dental Assisting National Board and the American Dental Assistants Association. |
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