How do I become a dental assistant?
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting
- Completed Certificate III in Dental Assisting or equivalent qualifications
Certificate III in Dental Assisting
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography)
- Completed Certificate III in Dental Assisting or equivalent qualifications
Related occupations
Dental Technician
A Dental Technician creates dental appliances like dentures and mouthguards by taking impressions and using various materials and techniques.
Oral Health Therapist
An Oral Health Therapist enhances clients' dental health by examining mouths, providing advice, designing preventative programs, and performing minor procedures.
Dental Hygienist
A Dental Hygienist performs minor procedures, cleans teeth, offers preventative care advice, and collaborates with dentists in various settings.
Prosthetic Technician
A Prosthetic Technician creates and repairs dental prosthetics like dentures, using moulds and various construction techniques.
Dental Nurse
A Dental Nurse assists dentists with patient care, prepares equipment, operates instruments, and manages administrative tasks, requiring strong communication and attention to detail.
Dental Prosthetist
A Dental Prosthetist prepares prosthetic appliances, makes dentures and mouthguards, assists with fittings, and requires strong customer service and attention to detail.
Dental Lab Assistant
A Dental Lab Assistant supports dental practices by taking impressions, creating custom mouthpieces, and performing repairs while ensuring excellent customer service.
Dentist
A Dentist examines and treats oral health issues, performing cleanings, fillings, extractions, and sometimes orthodontic procedures.
Treatment Coordinator
A Treatment Coordinator creates dental treatment plans, discusses costs, insurance, and payment options, ensuring clear communication and detail.
Orthodontist
Orthodontists are qualified dentists who focus on straightening teeth, fixing jaw alignment problems, and helping their clients achieve a beautiful...
Periodontist
Periodontists specialise in treating gum diseases and perform surgeries to install dental restorations, requiring strong communication skills and expertise.
Prosthodontist
Prosthodontists specialise in creating and fitting prosthetic devices for patients with missing teeth or facial deformities, ensuring functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Endodontist
Endodontists specialise in treating tooth pulp issues and perform procedures like root canal therapy and dental implants, ensuring patients' teeth are restored.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon performs surgeries on the mouth, jaw, and face, managing trauma and diseases to restore health and quality of life.
Paediatric Dentist
A Paediatric Dentist delivers dental care to children, focusing on treatment, preventive care, and educating families about oral health.
Common questions
How much do Dental Assistants earn?
A full time Dental Assistant will earn $1,163 per week ($60,476 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should act as a guide only. Individuals with more experience can expect a higher salary than those new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for Dental Assistants?
31,900 workers were employed as Dental Assistants as of May 2019. According to the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, the projected employment growth over 5 years is 14.2% which is around 4,500 job openings. Job openings occur due to employment growth and job turnover, for example workers leaving this occupation.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant?
To become a dental assistant, you usually have to complete vocational training to acquire a qualification. Courses often take one to two years to complete, depending on whether a student is pursuing a certificate or a dual certificate.