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By: All Allied Health Staff
Why choose California?
A better question might be why not choose California for a dental assisting career? While the state’s population may be in decline from what it once was, it is still the number one state for employment of dental assistants, with the Los Angeles-Anaheim-Long Beach metro area leading the way. This high demand for dental services is driven by California’s large and diverse population, which creates numerous job opportunities and the potential for higher wages compared to many other states.
Quick view
There are roughly 56,870 people employed as a dental assistant in California. This equates to approximately 3.1 people working in the field for every 1,000 people who reside in the state. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that California is the number one state in the country for employment of dental assistants, followed by Texas and Florida. The median wage per hour is $24 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 6.4%, faster than the national average for all job fields combined.
California’s favorable climate, with its mild winters and sunny weather, contributes to a high quality of life, attracting both residents and retirees. In regions like Southern California this may increase the demand for healthcare services, including dental care. As a result, the employment of dental assistants may be positively impacted, with job opportunities emerging to meet the needs of a health-conscious population.
Some of the major employers of dental assistants in California include:
- Kaiser Permanente, Oakland and multiple locations, CA:
- Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest healthcare organizations in the state, operates multiple dental clinics across California. Dental assistants at Kaiser support dentists by preparing treatment rooms, assisting during procedures, managing patient records and performing basic lab tasks, such as taking impressions and fabricating temporary restorations. They also play a key role in patient education and preventive care, aligning with the organization’s focus on comprehensive health services.
- Western Dental & Orthodontics, Orange (corporate) and multiple locations, CA:
- Western Dental is a large dental service organization (DSO) with numerous locations throughout California. Dental assistants here are crucial in providing chairside assistance during general dentistry and orthodontic procedures, sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays and maintaining patient flow. The company emphasizes a team approach, where dental assistants contribute to creating a positive patient experience and efficient operations.
- Aspen Dental, Chico, Fresno, Sacramento and multiple locations, CA:
- Aspen Dental, a nationwide dental support organization with several locations in California, employs dental assistants to support their dentists in a wide range of procedures, from routine cleanings to complex oral surgeries. Assistants are involved in taking patient histories, managing records and providing post-operative care instructions. Aspen Dental values dental assistants for their ability to enhance patient care and ensure smooth clinical operations.
- UCLA School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA:
- The UCLA School of Dentistry is a prominent dental education institution in California, employing dental assistants to support both faculty dentists and students. Dental assistants at UCLA play a vital role in clinical teaching environments, assisting with patient care during student-led procedures, managing clinic supplies and maintaining a safe and sterile environment. Their skills are essential in ensuring that both educational and patient care standards are met.
- Pacific Dental Services, 347 locations throughout CA:
- Pacific Dental Services is a leading dental support organization headquartered in California, providing business support to dental practices across the state. Dental assistants at PDS-affiliated practices are involved in a variety of tasks, including chairside assistance, radiography, patient education and administrative duties. PDS emphasizes a “patient-first” approach, where dental assistants contribute to the overall patient experience and help streamline dental practice operations.
Salary statistics for CA
While the national median salary for dental assistants is just over $47,300 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live in California, how much experience you have, what professional credentials you have earned and your level of education.
Median salaries for dental assistants in California
The median annual salary for dental assistants in California is $48,910. However, it’s important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state. As you can see, the highest paying metro areas in the state are all located in the Bay Area and include San Jose-Santa Clara-Sunnyvale, Santa Rosa and San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward.
Dental Assistants
10%$38,770
25%$45,630
50%$48,910Median
75%$59,960
90%$72,060
Median Hourly Wage$24
Job growth6.4%
Total Employment54,580
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $64,600 | $50,340 | $103,860 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA | $62,700 | $45,440 | $79,350 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma, CA | $62,620 | $48,170 | $75,490 |
| Vallejo, CA | $60,220 | $45,750 | $74,240 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA | $59,270 | $41,890 | $77,200 |
| Napa, CA | $58,690 | $39,890 | $74,320 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $55,410 | $38,790 | $63,440 |
| El Centro, CA | $54,010 | $38,530 | $81,100 |
| Salinas, CA | $51,940 | $38,660 | $75,270 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $50,450 | $40,720 | $73,010 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary ranges for dental assistants working in California
The salary range for dental assistants in California typically spans from $38,770 to $72,060 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education and time in the position. In fact, the most significant factor contributing to seniority is the number of years in the profession. Dental assistants who have worked for several years typically earn higher salaries and are given more responsibilities. A typical career path for clinical dental assistants may look something like this:
- Dental Assistant (DA) or Chairside Assistant: Entry-level basic functions such as assisting the dentist during procedures, preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays and managing patient records.
- Registered Dental Assistant (RDA): Have a broader scope of responsibilities, including more advanced tasks such as placing dental sealants, taking impressions, performing coronal polishing and applying fluoride treatments.
- Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA): Perform advanced procedures such as placing and contouring fillings, taking final impressions for crowns and applying temporary crowns and restorations.
- Lead Dental Assistant or Senior Dental Assistant: Oversee the work of other dental assistants, manage clinic inventory, coordinate patient flow and ensure compliance with safety and sterilization protocols.
Some dental assistants may choose to gain further education and move into dental office management, dental lab technician work or become dental hygienists. These roles may offer opportunities for higher salaries. Here are some median annual salaries, courtesy of the BLS, comparing dental assistant pay to other dental career salaries:
Pay by metro area
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. It’s common for cities to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is a dental industry hub, say for example you work in the Bay Area or Los Angeles which are home to several high profile dental brands, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S. As you can see, California ranks very well for pay by metro area and dominates the top 10 areas for pay:
Salary growth and job outlook
The dental assisting industry in California is growing, with the BLS touting a 6.4% job growth rate through 2034. Several factors contribute to this positive trend:
Large and diverse population: California has the largest population of any U.S. state, with over 39 million residents. This diverse population includes a wide range of age groups, ethnic backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses, all of which contribute to a high demand for dental services. The sheer volume of people needing routine dental care, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry and specialized procedures fuels the growth of the dental industry and the need for dental professionals, including dental assistants.
Awareness of oral health: California is known for its health-conscious population, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and cosmetic dentistry. Residents are generally well-educated about the importance of oral health and are more likely to seek regular dental check-ups, cleanings and elective procedures like teeth whitening and veneers. This cultural emphasis on maintaining healthy teeth and gums drives demand for a wide array of dental services, increasing job opportunities for dental professionals.
Significant retiree population: California is a popular destination for retirees, particularly in regions like Southern California and the Bay Area. As people age, they often require more dental care due to factors like gum disease, tooth decay and the need for dentures or implants. The growing retiree population in the state leads to increased demand for restorative and preventive dental services, contributing to job growth in the dental sector.
Solid healthcare infrastructure: California has a well-established and expansive healthcare infrastructure, including leading dental schools, research institutions and a large network of dental practices and clinics. The presence of dental schools such as UCLA and UCSF, not only educates future dental professionals but also drives innovation and best practices in the field. This infrastructure supports a thriving dental industry, with potentially ample employment opportunities for dental assistants and other dental professionals.
Factors affecting dental assisting salaries in CA
In California, several specific factors can significantly impact your pay as a dental assistant:
- Location within the state:
- The region or city where you work in California greatly influences your salary. Metropolitan areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego typically offer higher wages due to the higher cost of living and the concentration of high-end dental practices. Conversely, rural areas or smaller cities may offer lower pay, although the cost of living is also lower. For example, dental assistants in the Bay Area often earn more than those in Central Valley or Northern California.
- Level of education or professional certification:
- In California, dental assistants with advanced certifications, such as Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) or Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF), may earn higher salaries. These certifications allow you to perform more complex procedures, which can be highly valued by employers. Additionally, completing continuing education courses and obtaining specialized certifications, such as in dental radiography or coronal polishing, may further boost your earning potential.
- Experience and tenure:
- Your level of experience plays a crucial role in determining your pay. Dental assistants with several years of experience, particularly those who have developed specialized skills, are often paid more than entry-level assistants. In California, where the dental industry is competitive, experienced dental assistants can command higher salaries, especially if they have worked in high-demand specialties like orthodontics or oral surgery.
- Your employer:
- The type of dental practice or employer may significantly impact your salary. For instance, dental assistants working in large dental service organizations like Western Dental or in specialized practices, such as cosmetic dentistry or pediatric dentistry, may earn more than those in smaller, general dentistry practices. Additionally, dental assistants employed by academic institutions or hospitals in California, such as UCSF Dental Center, often receive higher pay and better benefits compared to those working in private practices.
- Bilingual or multilingual skills:
- California’s population includes a significant number of Spanish-speaking residents and other non-English-speaking communities. Dental assistants who are bilingual or multilingual, particularly in Spanish, may be in high demand and may receive higher pay. Being able to communicate effectively with a broader range of patients enhances your value to employers, who see this skill as essential for improving patient care and expanding their client base.
What do I do if I think my pay is unfair in California?
If you suspect that you’re not being paid fairly in your dental assisting position in California, the state has several laws and resources, besides federal protections such as the EEOC, to help support your case. California also promotes a retaliation-free workplace, so you can ask supervisors and co-workers about salary information to determine if there are potential discriminatory wages without fear of retaliation. If you’re concerned about unequal pay in California, here are some resources and organizations that can help address and resolve these issues:
California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR)
- The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) enforces labor laws in the state, including those related to equal pay. The department’s Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) handles complaints about wage discrimination and can investigate cases where unequal pay is suspected.
California Equal Pay Act
- The California Equal Pay Act requires that people, regardless of gender, in the same workplace be given equal pay for substantially similar work. The law also protects against retaliation for raising concerns about unequal pay. Detailed information about the California Equal Pay Act, including how to file a complaint, can be found on the DIR website.
California Women’s Law Center (CWLC)
- The California Women’s Law Center (CWLC) is an advocacy organization that works to advance the rights of women and girls, including issues related to equal pay. They provide resources, support and legal assistance for women facing wage discrimination.
Legal Aid at Work
- Legal Aid at Work provides free legal services and resources to low-income workers in California. They offer assistance with issues related to wage discrimination and unequal pay, including legal advice and representation.
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- The EEOC enforces federal laws against workplace discrimination, including the Equal Pay Act. While this is a federal agency, it operates in California and can assist with complaints about wage discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, and other protected characteristics.
California Lawyers Association
- The California Lawyers Association offers resources and legal referrals for workers dealing with unequal pay. They can connect you with attorneys who specialize in employment law, including wage discrimination cases.
Community Organizations
- Various community organizations, such as the YWCA or local labor unions, provide advocacy, support and resources for workers facing wage discrimination. These organizations often offer workshops, legal clinics and other services to help address pay inequality.
Education and training for California dental assistants
In California, the education requirements for dental assistants vary depending on the level of certification you want to achieve. Here’s an overview:
Unlicensed dental assistant
No formal education is required to work as a dental assistant in California, but you must complete specific on-the-job training provided by your employer.
Within a year of employment, you must complete courses in:
- A course in the California Dental Practice Act
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification approved by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross
- An 8-hour infection control course approved by the Dental Board of California (DBC)
Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
To become an RDA, you must complete one of the following:
- A dental assisting program approved by the Dental Board of California (DBC)
- 15 months of work experience as a dental assistant under the supervision of a licensed dentist in California
- Completion of a DBC-approved course in radiation safety
You must also pass both the California RDA General and Law and Ethics Written Exam, and a practical exam. Some expanded functions require additional certifications, such as coronal polishing, radiation safety and pit and fissure sealants.
Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF)
- Must first be a licensed RDA. Then, complete an RDAEF program approved by the DBC
- Pass the RDAEF written and clinical exams
- Earn certification in advanced functions like placing restorative materials, taking final impressions for permanent indirect restorations, etc.
Continuing education
RDAs and RDAEFs are required to complete continuing education courses to renew their licenses every two years. The specific CE requirements include courses in infection control, California Dental Practice Act and Basic Life Support (BLS).
Cost of living considerations
When evaluating dental assistant salaries in different areas of a state as large and diverse as California, it’s crucial to consider the cost of living. The cost of housing, transportation, healthcare and other expenses can vary widely across cities or regions. Understanding the cost of living helps you gauge how salaries align with your expenses and obligations and may help you make more informed decisions about job opportunities or potential relocation.
Overview:
California is one of the highest states for cost of living compared to the national average. RentCafe estimates the state as a whole is 38% higher than the national average, with housing alone at 97% higher than the national average. Utilities run 24% higher and food and necessities are 15% higher than national averages.
Highest cost of living cities:
RentCafe says several of the cities that are hubs for dental healthcare industries are higher than the national average, including San Jose (74% higher), Anaheim (52% higher), Los Angeles (50% higher), San Francisco (71% higher) and San Diego (43% higher).
Lowest cost of living cities:
Of the cities listed on RentCafe, none are lower than the national average. A few cities that are dental assisting hubs but closer to the national average include Fresno (9% higher) and Sacramento (20% higher).
Professional groups for CA dental assistants
In California, dental assistants can join several professional associations that offer resources, networking opportunities, continuing education opportunities and advocacy specific to the state. Here are some key associations:
- California Association of Dental Assisting Teachers (CADAT):
- CADAT primarily serves dental assisting educators in California, providing resources for those involved in training future dental assistants. However, it’s also a valuable resource for dental assistants looking to stay updated on educational trends and curriculum standards.
- California Dental Assistants Association (CDAA):
- CDAA is the state branch of the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA). It represents dental assistants across California, offering professional development opportunities, continuing education and advocacy for the profession.
- California Dental Hygienists’ Association (CDHA):
- While primarily for dental hygienists, CDHA also provides resources and networking opportunities for dental assistants, particularly those working closely with dental hygienists. It can be beneficial for RDAs and RDAEFs involved in more advanced clinical functions.
Find dental assistant salary guides for different states: Alabama | Arizona | Arkansas | California | Florida | Georgia | Indiana | New Jersey | North Carolina | Ohio | Texas
Our dental assistant salary guide for California aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, navigating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.