There's never been a better time to become a Dental Assistant!

A career in dental assisting is very promising. Employment is expected to grow 36% from 2008 - 2018, which is much faster than the average of all occupations. In fact, dental assistants are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the 2008 - 2018 projection period. Population growth, greater retention of natural teeth by middle-aged and older people, and an increased focus on preventative dental care for younger generations will fuel demand for dental services. Older dentists, who have been less likely to employ assistants or have employed fewer, are leaving the occupation and will be replaced by recent graduates who are more likely to use more assistants. In addition, as dentists' workloads increase, they are expected to hire more assistants to perform routine tasks, so that they can devote their own time to more complex procedures.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook, 2010 - 2011 Edition