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| Job Placement |
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| Salaries can vary widely, depending on location and type of practice. According to the American Dental Association, most full-time dental assistants employed by private practitioners received paid vacation and that nine out of 10 full- and part-time dental assistants received dental coverage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates in its “Occupational Outlook Handbook” that in 2002, dental assistants earned a median salary of $13.10. The middle 50 percent earned between $10.35 and $16.20 an hour. |
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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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