Dental Assistants Jobs Pay in California, CA

Average Hourly Pay

$27.05
15.5%Below national average

Range: $25.76 – $28.34

Average Annual Pay

$56,260
15.5%Below national average

Range: $53,581 – $58,939

Dental Assistants Salary Range in California, CA

Your level of experience is a key factor in determining your earning potential. Here's what you can expect at different career stages:

Entry Level

0-2 years

Hourly Rate

$22.99/hr

Range: $21.90 – $24.09

Annual Rate

$47,821

Range: $45,544 $50,098

Mid level

3-5 years

Hourly Rate

$27.05/hr

Range: $25.76 – $28.34

Annual Rate

$56,260

Range: $53,581 $58,939

Senior level

6+ years

Hourly Rate

$31.11/hr

Range: $29.62 – $32.59

Annual Rate

$64,699

Range: $61,618 $67,780

Dental Assistant Role and Responsibilities in California, CA

Dental Assistants professionals play a vital role in the healthcare industry, providing essential medical services and patient care. They work in various healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics, and private practices to ensure quality patient outcomes.

Responsibilities
  • Provide direct patient care and medical services
  • Document patient information and treatment plans
  • Collaborate with healthcare team members
  • Follow medical protocols and safety procedures
  • Maintain medical equipment and supplies
  • Stay current with medical advancements and certifications
Skills
  • Medical knowledge and clinical skills
  • Patient care and communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Compassion and empathy
  • Time management
Qualifications
  • Required certifications or licenses
  • Relevant education or degree
  • Clinical experience preferred
  • Background check and health screening

FAQs about Dental Assistant in California, CA

How much does a dental assistant make in California, CA?

The average dental assistant salary in California, CA is $27.05 per hour, or about $56,260 per year.

What is the typical pay range for dental assistants in California?

Dental assistants in California typically earn between $25.76 and $28.34 per hour, or $53,581 to $58,939 per year.

How does experience affect dental assistant pay in California?

Dental assistant pay generally increases with experience in California. Entry-level roles earn less than mid-career and senior roles, with senior pay reaching about $31.11 per hour.

Is dental assistant pay in California higher than the national average?

Dental assistants in California are listed as earning 15.5% below the U.S. average for this role.

How does California compare to California for dental assistant pay?

The average dental assistant salary in California is $27.05 per hour, which is about the same than California.

How does California compare to nearby cities for dental assistant pay?

California can pay more or less than nearby cities depending on local demand, employer mix, and cost of living. Nearby salary comparisons on this page help show how dental assistants pay varies across the region.

What does a dental assistant do in California, CA?

Dental assistants in California, CA typically provide direct patient care and medical services, document patient information and treatment plans, and collaborate with healthcare team members.

What skills and qualifications are common for dental assistants?

Common qualifications for dental assistants include required certifications or licenses, relevant education or degree, and clinical experience preferred. Important skills often include medical knowledge and clinical skills, patient care and communication, and attention to detail.