Dental Assistants
Dental Assistants at the entry level in Mississippi typically earn around $16.00 per hour, while experienced professionals can earn $21.00 per hour or more, depending on certifications, specialization, and type of dental practice.
Sector: Healthcare and Life Sciences
About the Job:
Dental Assistants support dentists during exams and procedures by preparing patients, sterilizing and organizing instruments, handing instruments and materials chairside, and taking/imaging dental X‑rays as permitted. They also perform administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and managing supplies to help the dental office run efficiently.
Education & Training Requirements:
Training pathways typically include short-term certificate or diploma programs that can often be completed in about 9–12 months, though some Dental Assistants are trained on the job. Many employers prefer graduates of accredited dental assisting programs and may require certification in radiology, CPR, and infection control, along with state-specific credentials where applicable.
Where Are the Jobs in Mississippi?
Dental Assistants are employed across Mississippi in general dental practices, specialty offices (such as orthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, and periodontics), community health centers, and dental clinics affiliated with hospitals or educational institutions. Positions are available in both urban and rural communities, with higher concentrations in population centers and regions with more dental practices.
