How Much Money Can a Dental Assistant Expect to Make in Missouri?

If you’re considering a career as a dental assistant and live in Missouri—or plan to move there—it’s natural to wonder how much money you could earn in this role. Dental assisting is a growing profession, offering a stable career path with opportunities for advancement. This blog post explores how much dental assistants can expect to make in Missouri, what factors influence salaries, and what opportunities exist for further earning potential.

Average Salary of a Dental Assistant in Missouri

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for dental assistants in Missouri is approximately $40,000. This equates to about $19.23 per hour. It’s worth noting that salaries can vary widely depending on a range of factors, such as location, level of experience, and additional certifications.

Missouri’s average salary for dental assistants is slightly below the national average, which is about $42,510 per year ($20.44 per hour). While this may seem modest, it’s important to take into account Missouri’s cost of living, which is lower than the national average. Dental assistants in Missouri can often stretch their earnings further compared to professionals in higher-cost states.

Factors That Affect Dental Assistant Salaries in Missouri

Several factors can influence how much a dental assistant makes, including:

1. Location Within the State

Salaries can vary depending on whether you’re working in a rural area or a larger metropolitan region. For instance, dental assistants in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City typically earn higher wages due to the increased cost of living and greater demand for dental services. Smaller towns and rural areas may offer slightly lower wages but often come with other benefits, such as a more relaxed work environment.

2. Experience Level

Your level of experience greatly affects your earning potential. Entry-level dental assistants might start closer to $30,000 annually, while those with several years of experience or specialized skills can earn upwards of $50,000. Experienced dental assistants may also have access to greater job stability and benefits.

3. Certifications and Education

Pursuing additional certifications, such as becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), can significantly increase your earnings. Certified professionals often command a higher salary and may find more opportunities with prestigious dental practices.

4. Specialized Skills

Dental assistants who gain experience in specialized areas, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry, may earn higher wages. These fields often require specific training or certifications, but the investment can pay off in greater job satisfaction and compensation.

Benefits and Perks as Part of Total Compensation

When considering salary, it’s also important to look at the total compensation package, which could include a variety of benefits. Many dental assistants working in Missouri receive perks such as:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Retirement plans (such as a 401(k))
• Continuing education reimbursements
• Dental care benefits for themselves and their families

These additional benefits can add significant value to your overall compensation. For example, health insurance or dental benefits provided by an employer can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars annually.

Opportunities for Growth and Higher Pay

Missouri offers dental assistants several ways to grow their careers and increase their earning potential. By gaining additional experience, enhancing your skills, or pursuing certifications, you can move into higher-paying roles, such as:

• Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA): Dental assistants with EFDA training may perform more complex procedures, such as applying sealants or taking impressions, and often earn higher wages. This additional training is regulated by state laws and requires completing an EFDA course.
• Practice Management Roles: Experienced dental assistants who develop an interest in the business side of dentistry may transition into office management or training roles, potentially earning higher salaries and gaining leadership responsibilities.

Another option is to pursue further education to become a dental hygienist. While this requires additional schooling and licensing, dental hygienists typically earn significantly more, with average salaries around $76,000 annually nationwide.

Final Thoughts

A career as a dental assistant in Missouri offers stable income potential and opportunities for advancement, particularly if you’re willing to invest in certifications or specialized training. While the average salary falls slightly below the national average, Missouri’s lower cost of living helps offset this difference, allowing dental assistants to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Whether you’re new to the profession or considering further career development, the dental assistant field offers a rewarding and potentially lucrative path. By understanding the factors that influence salaries and taking steps to enhance your skills, you can maximize your earning potential as a dental assistant in Missouri.