Vacancies For Dental Assistant Jobs in Canada
If you are interested in working as a dental assistant, here are the qualifications for this position. If you have some previous experience, you can also apply online for an entry-level position in Canada. You can find a list of dental assistant jobs in your region on our website.
Who is a Dental Assistant?
A dental assistant is a member of the dental team. They support the dental operator during procedures. They are distinguished from other dental auxiliaries by their roles and training. In some ways, they are even more important than patients.
While the scope of duties of a dental assistant depends on the state and the dental facility in which they work, most states require that the assistant obtain a license before they can work in the field. Generally, though, the requirements are quite similar for both types of positions.
If you want to work in a small dental practice, you will need at least two years of experience and a license. Although some states do not require any formal education, most dental assistant hopefuls must earn a credential from an accredited dental assistant school.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation accredits nearly 270 institutions nationwide. Upon graduation, you can earn a certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree. Many dental assistant programs last for between nine and eleven months. Once you complete your program, you can begin working as a dental assistant.
Requirements for Dental Assistant Job
In Canada, the dental assistant job requires a license. The license is obtained through a test administered four times a year. The test covers topics included in the Cestar program, including patient care, laboratory procedures, and the role of a dental assistant.
This license gives assurance to the employer that you’re qualified for the position, and there is no annual renewal fee. The requirements for a dental assistant job in Canada vary from province to province.
If you want to become a full-fledged dental assistant, you must take the National Dental Examination Board (NDEB). This exam requires certification. Additionally, you must take a course that covers radiation safety and health. You must also complete 14 hours of training courses. Finally, if you want to work with children, you must earn a sealant endorsement through an approved program.
Job Skills
As a dental assistant, it is crucial that you have the right set of skills for this job in Canada. You may have to study for an additional year, but if you have the right skills, you can apply for the Canadian immigration program.
This is an immigration program for highly-skilled foreign workers and it can lead to permanent residency. This program also helps foreign dental assistants who already have valid job offers in Canada.
In order to become a dental assistant, you need to complete a training program in dentistry, preferably an eight-month to a one-year course. Alternatively, you can take secondary school with on-the-job training and then complete a program.
In all provinces except Ontario, you will need to register with a regulatory body. You will need to undergo a practical experience in the dental clinic for a minimum of four weeks to qualify.
In order to succeed in this job, you should possess a wide range of soft skills. A good communicator is essential, and you must be able to work as part of a team. You will work closely with dental hygienists, office managers, and dentists.
You must be a team player, be able to work under pressure, and have a positive attitude. People who like to work with people naturally have excellent interpersonal skills.
Job Duties
A job as a dental assistant includes performing administrative tasks, collecting patient vital signs, maintaining dental equipment inventories, preparing patients for dental procedures, and maintaining equipment safety.
This career position also involves sterilizing dental instruments, developing radiographic studies, preparing X-rays, and maintaining patient records. Moreover, dental assistants are responsible for patient comfort and safety, as well as patient education. They must have excellent communication skills and have experience with computers.
In addition to assisting dental professionals, assistants may also perform routine clerical tasks. They may apply anesthetics, take impressions of teeth, and apply fluoride, or sealants. They may also perform coronal polishing.
In Canada, dental assistants are licensed by the Dental Assisting Regulatory Authorities. This profession is considered a restricted health occupation, and as such, the regulations and job duties may vary from province to province.
Benefits
Dental assistants are in demand across Canada. Another advantage of working in the dental industry is the opportunity to work in a clean environment.
A career as a dental assistant offers many opportunities for advancement. You can find a job in a variety of settings, including private practices, dental health units, and public and educational facilities.
You can also work as a research assistant, helping to discover new technologies and improve dental care and related services. In addition to advancing your career, you can also enjoy the benefits of being part of a military organization.
There are many benefits of a career as a dental assistant. The pay for dental assistants is competitive throughout Canada. Depending on the type of practice, you could earn anywhere from $20k to $60k.
In addition, you will get to utilize your people skills and help patients. If you have a dental assistant degree, you could earn over $60k per year. A dental assistant salary is highly dependent on your experience and level of education.
Salary
The average salary for a Dental Assistant in Canada is $44,850 per year or $23 per hour. However, the amount varies widely based on years of experience and company. Entry-level positions typically pay $38,164 per year, while experienced ones can earn as much as $52,945 per year.
It’s important to note that there are no standard salaries for this position, as compensation will depend on location, experience, and company.
A dental assistant’s salary should increase each year. The average annual salary increment for an assistant is 9%. However, bonuses are not a common feature of dental assistants.
If you are interested in becoming a dental assistant, consider a career in remote healthcare. With so many options available, you can make your career choices from the comfort of your own home.
Conclusion
There are several reasons why there are a large number of vacancies in the field of dentistry in Canada. The demand for dental specialists continues to grow, as does the number of job openings.
This sector has some of the highest pay rates in Canada, and it has one of the lowest unemployment rates. In addition, there are a large number of job seekers. Therefore, if you are interested in a dental assistant career, now is a great time to start.