How Much Do Dental Assistants Make in Arizona? 

Dental assistants in Arizona usually make between $40,917, and $50,130 a year. But the exact pay depends on things like how much experience they have, where they live in Arizona, and what kind of dental office they work at. Entry-level dental assistants make less money, but those who are good at their jobs or have special training can make more.

Can You Work As a Dental Assistant Without Being Certified? 

Yes, you can work as a dental assistant without being certified in Arizona. Certification is not required by law to work as a dental assistant in the state. However, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a dental assisting program and obtained certification, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential. 

How Much Does a Certified Dental Assistant Salary in Arizona?

A certified dental assistant’s salary in Arizona is higher compared to non-certified assistants. The average salary for a certified dental assistant in Arizona ranges from  $18.12  to $25.53 per hour. This higher pay reflects their additional qualifications and expertise.  

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Dental Assistant? 

The cost to become a dental assistant in Arizona will vary depending on the educational path you choose. On average, completing studies at a community college in Arizona can cost  $2,130 to attain a certificate or $6,250 to attain an associate degree.  

 

 

How Long Does it Take to Become a Dental Assistant?

It takes about 8 months to a year to become a dental assistant in Arizona. This duration includes completing a dental assisting program, which can vary in length from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the program’s structure and schedule. 

After completing the program, individuals may need additional time to prepare for and pass certification exams, such as the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam, to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).   

How Many Dental Schools Are There in Arizona?

Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Arizona and Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health are the two dental schools in Arizona according to the American Dental Education Association (ADEA).