Description:

• Responsible for cleaning and polishing teeth, educating patients on proper oral hygiene, and assisting dentists on surgeries and dental procedures.

Salary Range*:

• $44,000 - $50,000.

Job Growth:

• 30.1% from 2006-2016.
  

Education Required:

• Associate’s degree minimum.

Relevant Military Job:

• Dental Specialists.

Branch of Service Offering Job:

• Air Force; Army; Coast Guard; Navy.
  

Core Skills:

• Prepare for patient examinations and oral surgery. Conduct teeth cleanings and rovide guidance to patients on dental care. Assist dentists by preparing dental compounds and operating dental equipment. Perform administrative duties, such as scheduling office visits, keeping patient records, and ordering dental supplies.

Examples of Employers:

• Dental offices, mostly private practices.

Job Openings:

• 82,000 total from 2006-2016.

Difficulty for Entry:

• Lower, due to growing supply of jobs and level of education requirements.

Sources: PayScale; Bureau of Labor Statistics.

*Note: Salaries will vary based on years of relevant work experience,
education, and other employer requirements.