Why Are There So Many Dental Assistants in California?

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California is the number one employer of Dental Assistants in the U.S., with more than 47,000 working in the profession. And according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nationwide demand for the occupation is expected to grow faster than average through 2030. But why is the demand so high?

Dental Assistants in Demand in California

More Dentists in California

One reason there is such a need for Dental Assistants in California is because there are so many dentists. California is the top employer of dentists in the country and many dentists will hire two to three assistants to be part of their team. California dentists are in high demand and need help! That’s where Dental Assistants come in.

COVID-19 Created Shortages

Dental Assistants have been needed for years, but the pandemic created even more demand. Dentists say they now need more staff to see the same number of patients. And even as dentists try to hire assistants they’re seeing an applicant shortage.

Baby Boomers Need Dental Care

Another reason there’s such high demand is that there are so many people in need of dental services. Baby boomers are the second most populous generation—and they’re getting older. But thanks to good oral hygiene, they’re keeping their original teeth longer and they’ll continue to need dental services. They may also need a little extra help when they visit the dentist.

Dental Care Awareness Increases Demand

We now know more about the relationship between oral health and the health of the body than we ever have before. Plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease are all related to health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The more you know about the importance of proper dental care, the more you go to your dentist.

Demand for Cosmetic Dentistry on the Rise

You don’t just want a clean and healthy mouth. You want your teeth to look good too. As more people flock to the dentist for cosmetic reasons, more assistants will be needed to help dentists and their patients.

Serve More Patients More Efficiently

Dental Assistants help run dental offices more efficiently, allowing the practice to serve more patients and provide better service. A dental assistant does clerical work and also helps with direct patient care. Some of the tasks you might be required to do as a dental assistant include:

  • Answer phones and schedule appointments
  • Wash and sterilize tools and equipment
  • Make sure patients are comfortable and prepare them for treatment
  • Hand tools to the dentist during a procedure
  • Provide patients with important dental care information
  • Maintain patient records

Have you ever thought about Dental Assisting? At Charter College, you could complete our Dental Assisting certificate program in as little as 10 months. We’ll provide you with basic training in front office procedures as well as clinical, lab, and chair-side assisting procedures. Wouldn’t it be great to choose a profession with good prospects for your future? Fill out the form to request more information and get started on the path to a real career.