Salary distribution
Where New York City dental assistants fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $44,580 and $59,370, with a median of $47,810.
Typical entry
Education
Postsecondary nondegree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None
Top skills (O*NET)
- 4.5 / 5
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge
- 4.4 / 5
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge
- 4.1 / 5
Near Vision
Ability
- 4.0 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
- 3.9 / 5
Active Listening
Basic skill
- 3.8 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
- 3.8 / 5
Speech Recognition
Ability
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Prepare patient, sterilize or disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, or assist dentist during dental procedures.
- 02
Record treatment information in patient records.
- 03
Assist dentist in management of medical or dental emergencies.
- 04
Order and monitor dental supplies and equipment inventory.
- 05
Expose dental diagnostic x-rays.
- 06
Provide postoperative instructions prescribed by dentist.
- 07
Instruct patients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs.
- 08
Take and record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients.
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How the New York City metro compares to other major New York metro areas for dental assistants.
- Buffalo$46,240
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Dental Assistants in New York City, New York?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Dental Assistants in the New York City metropolitan area is $47,810.
- Does New York City pay more than the New York state average for Dental Assistants?
- The New York City metro median is +1.7% versus the New York state median of $47,020.
- How does New York City compare to the national median for Dental Assistants?
- The New York City metro median is +0.8% versus the BLS national figure of $47,443.
- What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in New York City?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $36,970 and the 90th-percentile at $62,400 for the New York City metro area.
- What education is required for Dental Assistants?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Postsecondary nondegree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the New York City CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.