Whether you are considering a career in the medical or dental field, you may be wondering which profession pays the most. In this article, we will compare the salaries of medical assistants and dental assistants to see who earns more in their respective fields. Read on to find out if a medical assistant or dental assistant makes more money and discover which profession is the best fit for you.
Who Makes More Money – Medical Assistant or Dental Assistant?
In general, dental assistants make more money than medical assistants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for dental assistants in 2019 was $40,080, while the median pay for medical assistants was $34,800. Dental assistants may earn more than medical assistants due to the specialized skills and knowledge required for the job. Additionally, dental assistants often have more responsibilities than medical assistants, such as taking X-rays and performing laboratory procedures.
Ultimately, the amount of money a medical assistant or a dental assistant makes will depend on a variety of factors, such as experience, employer, location, and credentials.
Medical Assistant vs. Dental Assistant Salary
The salaries of medical and dental assistants can vary greatly based on geographic location, education, experience, and other factors. Generally, medical assistant salaries are higher than dental assistant salaries, though the actual wage gap depends on the specific job and geographic location.
Salary Comparison
The median annual wage for medical assistants in the United States was $33,610 in May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage for dental assistants was $39,770 in the same period.
However, the actual wage gap can vary based on a number of factors. Medical assistant salaries are typically higher in states where the cost of living is higher, such as California and New York. Medical assistants who work in larger cities may also earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas.
Education and Experience
Medical and dental assistants typically need different levels of education and experience. Most medical assistants are required to complete a formal education program, while most dental assistants only need a high school diploma.
Medical assistants who have completed an accredited program may have higher salaries than those who have not. Medical assistants who have more experience may also earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out.
Employer Type
The type of employer can also affect the salary of a medical or dental assistant. Medical assistants who work in larger hospitals or medical practices may have higher salaries than those who work in smaller clinics or private practices.
Dental assistants who work in larger practices may also earn higher salaries than those who work in smaller practices.
Bonuses and Benefits
Medical and dental assistants may be eligible for bonuses and other benefits. Medical assistants may receive bonuses for meeting certain goals or for completing additional training. Dental assistants may receive bonuses for working extra hours or for completing additional training.
Medical and dental assistants may also be eligible for health insurance, paid vacation, and other benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes More Medical Assistant or Dental Assistant?
Answer: Generally speaking, medical assistants make more than dental assistants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $33,610 in May 2020, compared to $40,080 for dental assistants.
Are Medical Assistants in Higher Demand Than Dental Assistants?
Answer: Yes, medical assistants are in higher demand than dental assistants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, there were 676,400 medical assistants employed in the U.S., compared to 268,400 dental assistants. In addition, the job outlook for medical assistants is projected to grow much faster than the national average at 19%, compared to 7% for dental assistants.
What is the Average Salary for a Medical Assistant?
Answer: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $33,610 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $24,110, and the highest 10% earned more than $48,720.
What is the Average Salary for a Dental Assistant?
Answer: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental assistants was $40,080 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $29,810, and the highest 10% earned more than $56,640.
What Education is Necessary to Become a Medical Assistant?
Answer: Most medical assistants have a postsecondary certificate or diploma from an accredited program. These programs typically last one year and include courses in medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, as well as clinical experience. Some medical assistants enter the field after completing high school and may receive on-the-job training.
What Education is Necessary to Become a Dental Assistant?
Answer: Dental assistants typically must have a postsecondary certificate or diploma from an accredited program. These programs typically last one year and include courses in dental terminology, anatomy and physiology, dental materials, and dental x-ray techniques, as well as clinical experience. Some dental assistants enter the field after completing high school and may receive on-the-job training.
Dental Assisting or Medical Assisting
In conclusion, becoming a medical assistant or dental assistant is a great career for those interested in a career in healthcare. Both occupations offer competitive wages, job security and opportunities for career growth. Ultimately, the amount of money a medical or dental assistant earns depends on the location, experience and hours worked. With the increasing demand for healthcare, both medical and dental assistants can expect to see their earnings and job prospects remain strong for the foreseeable future.