How to Become a Dental Assistant in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Dental assistants play an important role when it comes to the functionality of a dental office. Their responsibilities will include both administrative and clinical duties, which may include performing X-rays, keeping track of dental records, preparing patients for examination and much more.

Virginia Beach is the most popular city in Virginia and is a resort town with multiple tourist attractions. Soccer tournaments as well as surfing championships are held in this city every year.

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You can read about state requirements for dental assistants in the state of Virginia by clicking here.

Virginia Beach Schools for Dental Assistants

Working as a dental assistant may require you to enroll in a post-secondary training program. The schools below were established to help prepare dental assistants to enter the industry with confidence.

Practical Dental Assisting is located in the city of Virginia Beach, among local attractions including restaurants, entertainment venues and a community center. Students will complete a training program which lasts for about eight months and includes a 160-hour externship. Courses include both classroom and hands-on training. Military spouses who qualify will be able to receive a discount on tuition.
Dental Careers Foundation is also located in Virginia Beach, near local shopping attractions and housing establishments. The school offers a training program that lasts for 11 weeks. Students will also receive eight hours of radiology training as part of this program. Students will learn about model trimming, cements and liners, sterilization techniques and much more.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data indicate that, during 2016, there were more than 8,000 people employed as dental assistants in the state of Virginia. By 2026, this number will jump to 10,000, signifying a 24.7 percent expansion in the job market during this 10-year period.

BLS figures also indicate that dental assistants in this city earned $18.17 per hour on average in 2017. The highest paid dental assistants working in Virginia Beach made more than $51,000 annually, according to the same data.

Working as a Dental Assistant in Virginia Beach

Most dental assisting programs can be completed within less than one year. Employment will be available at dental clinics or orthodontal offices. Since the job market for dental assistants will continue to grow, now is as good a time as any to enter this career field.