Dental Assisting in Lubbock, Texas
If you’re looking to start work as a dental assistant in west Texas, you might want to check out the city of Lubbock. While this city has the 11th highest population in the state, it still carries small-town charm and a suburban feel. Most notably, Lubbock is the birthplace of rock n’ roll legend Buddy Holly, but it’s also been nicknamed “Hub City” because it’s seen as the hub of the South Plains. Lubbock is a great spot to go to school and search for your first dental assisting job, with plenty to do during your downtime.
Where to Study Dental Assisting
The first step to becoming a dental assistant is to complete a training program. By doing this, you’ll be prepared to take exams issued by the Texas Board of Dentistry and earn your registered dental assistant (RDA) credential. Educational options in the Lubbock area include:
- Lubbock Dental Assistant School. This local 12-week program offers Saturday classes within a real dental office. Students enjoy a low student-to-instructor ratio and job assistance after graduation. Application requirements include a high school diploma or GED, up-to-date immunization records and a down-payment. Tuition is currently $2,950 to $3,045 with payment plans available.
- West Texas Dental Assisting. This school is regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). It offers a 12-week program costing $3,395. Both CPR and AED training are provided, and each class has only 10 students, allowing for individualized instruction. Students are also trained to receive their RDA license before graduation. Students complete an externship at Apple Tree Dentistry under dentist supervision.
Lubbock Dental Assistant Work Life
In 2018, Lubbock dental assistants made a median income $15.23 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That same year, the city employed 380 dental assistants, a number bound to increase in the coming years. According to the Projections Managing Partnership, Texas will experience a 22 percent increase in dental assistant employment by the year 2026, which is faster than average. Furthermore, Lubbock experiences a low unemployment rate compared to the rest of Texas.
A City Full of Adventure
There’s a wealth to enjoy in Lubbock outside your work life. Check out some of the local attractions like the Buddy Holly Center, National Ranching Heritage Center and Joyland Amusement Park. When you’re feeling more low-key, there are also plenty of coffee shops, parks, and Tex-Mex restaurants to be explored. The nightlife in Lubbock is bustling, too, with local bars full of rock n’ roll and nostalgic Texas history. Enjoy “Hub City” for all its magic as you work your way toward a fulfilling career in dental assisting.