Dental Assisting vs. Dental Hygiene: Which Career is Right for You?

Author: Dr. Casey Hart

Choosing a career in dentistry offers a rewarding path with opportunities for professional growth, patient care, and job stability. Two of the most popular roles in the field are dental assisting and dental hygiene. While both professions play a vital role in dental offices, they have distinct responsibilities, educational requirements, and career paths. If you’re considering a career in dentistry but aren’t sure which route to take, this guide will help you compare the two professions and decide which one aligns best with your skills and career goals.

What Does a Dental Assistant Do?

Dental assistants provide essential support to dentists and help keep the office running smoothly. Their responsibilities vary depending on state regulations but typically include:

• Assisting the dentist during procedures by handing them instruments and suctioning saliva.

• Preparing patients for exams and treatments.

• Taking and developing dental X-rays.

• Sterilizing dental instruments and ensuring a clean workspace.

• Educating patients on oral hygiene and post-procedure care.

• Performing administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and handling patient records.

Education and Training for Dental Assistants

Becoming a dental assistant generally requires completing a dental assisting program, which can take anywhere from 9 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. However, some programs offer a faster track into the workforce. For example, mydentalcareers.com offers a 10-week dental assisting program designed to provide hands-on training and prepare students for real-world dental office environments. Some states also require licensure or certification, such as passing the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).

Career Outlook and Salary

Dental assisting is a fast-growing career with a strong job outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for dental assistants is projected to grow by 8% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than average. The median annual salary for dental assistants is around $42,000, though wages can vary by experience, location, and certification.

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

Dental hygienists focus primarily on patient care and oral disease prevention. They work closely with both dentists and patients, providing essential treatments and education. Typical responsibilities include:

• Cleaning teeth by removing plaque, tartar, and stains.

• Performing patient screenings, including checking for signs of oral disease.

• Taking and analyzing dental X-rays.

• Educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition.

• Applying preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants.

• Documenting patient care and reporting findings to the dentist.

Education and Training for Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists are required to complete an accredited dental hygiene program, which typically results in an associate degree and takes about 2 to 3 years. Some professionals choose to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree for additional career opportunities. Hygienists must also pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and obtain state licensure.

Career Outlook and Salary

The demand for dental hygienists is high, with employment expected to grow by 9% from 2021 to 2031. The median annual salary for dental hygienists is approximately $78,000, significantly higher than that of dental assistants. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and level of education.

Key Differences Between Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene

• Primary Role: Dental assistants help dentists with procedures and office tasks, while dental hygienists provide direct patient care and oral hygiene treatments.

• Education Required: Dental assistants can complete a certificate or diploma in 9 months to 2 years or enroll in the 10-week program at mydentalcareers.com. Dental hygienists must complete an accredited 2-3 year associate degree or higher.

• Licensure: Some states require certification for dental assistants, while dental hygienists must pass licensing exams.

• Salary: The median annual salary for dental assistants is ~$42,000, while dental hygienists earn around $78,000 per year.

• Job Growth: Both careers are growing, with dental assisting expected to grow 8% and dental hygiene 9% from 2021 to 2031.

• Patient Interaction: Dental assistants support dentists and assist patients, whereas dental hygienists work more independently, providing cleanings and education.

Which Career Is Right for You?

Choosing between dental assisting and dental hygiene depends on your career goals, education preferences, and desired job responsibilities.

• Consider Dental Assisting If You:

  • Want to enter the workforce quickly with minimal education requirements.

  • Enjoy a mix of clinical and administrative tasks.

  • Prefer to work closely with dentists and assist in procedures.

  • Are looking for an entry-level position that can lead to further advancement.

• Consider Dental Hygiene If You:

  • Want a higher salary and more independent patient care responsibilities.

  • Are willing to invest in a longer education program.

  • Enjoy working one-on-one with patients to promote oral health.

  • Prefer a role that allows for flexible scheduling and potential part-time opportunities.

Conclusion

Both dental assisting and dental hygiene offer fulfilling careers with strong job growth and stability. If you’re eager to start working in the dental field quickly, dental assisting might be the right choice. However, if you’re looking for a higher salary and greater patient care responsibilities, dental hygiene may be a better fit. Regardless of the path you choose, both careers provide an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ oral health.

Interested in pursuing a career in dental assisting or dental hygiene? Visit mydentalcareers.com to learn more about training programs, career resources, and job opportunities in the dental field!