As of 2024, the average annual salary for dental assistants in Ohio is approximately $40,500. This figure can vary significantly based on several factors, including experience, education, location within the state, and the type of dental practice.
Salary by Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $32,000 – $35,000
- Mid-Level (3-5 years): $38,000 – $42,000
- Experienced (6-10 years): $45,000 – $50,000
- Highly Experienced (10+ years): $50,000 – $55,000
Salary by Location
Salaries for dental assistants can vary across different regions in Ohio. Typically, urban areas tend to offer higher salaries compared to rural areas due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for dental services.
- Columbus: $42,000 – $47,000
- Cleveland: $41,000 – $46,000
- Cincinnati: $40,000 – $45,000
- Toledo: $39,000 – $44,000
- Akron: $38,000 – $43,000
Salary by Type of Dental Practice
The type of dental practice also impacts salaries. Dental assistants working in specialized practices, such as orthodontics or oral surgery, often earn more than those in general dentistry.
- General Dentistry: $38,000 – $42,000
- Orthodontics: $41,000 – $46,000
- Oral Surgery: $43,000 – $48,000
- Pediatric Dentistry: $40,000 – $45,000
- Endodontics: $42,000 – $47,000
Comparison to National Averages
To provide a broader perspective, it’s helpful to compare the average dental assistant salary in Ohio to national figures. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average annual salary for dental assistants in 2024 is approximately $44,000.
Graph: Average Dental Assistant Salary Comparison
Below is a graph illustrating the comparison between the average dental assistant salary in Ohio and the national average.
Factors Influencing Dental Assistant Salaries in Ohio
1. Experience and Education
As with most professions, experience and education play a significant role in determining salary levels. Dental assistants with more years of experience and those who have obtained certifications or completed advanced training programs often command higher salaries.
2. Geographic Location
Salaries can vary within the state, largely influenced by the cost of living and demand for dental services in different areas. Urban centers such as Columbus and Cleveland typically offer higher wages compared to rural areas.
3. Type of Practice
Dental assistants working in specialized fields like orthodontics or oral surgery tend to earn higher salaries due to the additional skills and expertise required in these areas.
4. Employer Type
The type of employer also impacts salaries. Dental assistants employed in private dental offices may have different salary scales compared to those working in larger healthcare institutions or educational facilities.
Benefits and Job Outlook
Beyond salary, dental assistants in Ohio often receive various benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities. The job outlook for dental assistants is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a faster-than-average growth rate for this profession over the next decade.