When considering a new career, Certified Dental Assistant is a good field to consider. The Dental industry is expanding world wide and the potential for career growth is excellent. Growth of 29% is expected from 2006 to 2016. Here is a look at the Certified Dental Assistant career field and some of the top 5 things to consider for a new career.

Top 5 states, by salary, in the U.S. for Dental Assistants:

1. Alaska - $20.11 per/hour
2. District of Columbia (D.C.) - $19.68 p/h
   
3. New Hampshire - $19.41 p/h
4. Minnisota - $19.38 p/h
   
5. Connecticut - $18.87 p/h

The p/h wage increases as the number of people employed drops. The top 5 states, by numbers employeed, for Dental Assistants:

1. Utah - 4,380 employeed - Average wage $12.77
2. Washington (state) - 9,310 employeed - Average wage $17.65
3. California - 46,390 employeed - Average wage $16.30
4. Idaho - 1,860 employeed - Average wage $14.04
5. Alaska - 830 employeed - Average wage $20.11

The top 5 industries in the U.S. that Employee Dental Assistants:

1. Dentist Offices
2. Doctors Offices
3. Federal Government
4. Colleges and Universities
5. Employment Services (Manpower, etc.)
   

Duties: "Dental assistants work in a well-lighted, clean environment. Their work area usually is near the dental chair so that they can arrange instruments, materials, and medication and hand them to the dentist when needed. Dental assistants must wear gloves, masks, eye wear, and protective clothing to protect themselves and their patients from infectious diseases. Assistants also follow safety procedures to minimize the risks associated with the use of x-ray machines." - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Certification: Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) provides certification which is recognized or required by 30 states. Certification is a verification of your professional competence and will be a real asset to you when looking for a job. You can qualify to take the certification exam by being a graduate of an ADA accredited Dental Assisting Course or by having 2 years of full time experience or 4 years of part-time experience. You must also have a certification in CPR.

Career Advancement: A Dental Assistant can find advancement opportunities by becoming Dental Office Managers, Dental Assistant instructor, Dental Products Sales Representative or Claims processors for Dental Insurance Companies.