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Healthcare

Dental Assistant

Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.

Annual openings

1,135

Median wage

$48,340

Typical education

High school (GED), plus on-the-job training

Growth 2026–2032

+11%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED), plus on-the-job training

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

Entry-level

Experience detail

This is an entry-level role so no experience in a Healthcare environment is required. However, full or part-time work experience of any kind developing the listed knowledge and abilities is preferred, with previous Healthcare and Customer Service experience being valued.

This job has been identified as a good entry-level job to gain experience for future advancement in a Healthcare or Public Health career.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenMay vary
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsMay vary

Interests it draws on

  • Healthcare
  • Dentristry

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures.
  2. Assist dentist in management of medical or dental emergencies.
  3. Expose dental diagnostic x-rays.
  4. Pour, trim, and polish study casts.
  5. Record treatment information in patient records.
  6. Order and monitor dental supplies and equipment inventory.
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