What is the median salary for Dental Assistants in Houston, Texas?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Dental Assistants in the Houston metropolitan area is $36,580.

Does Houston pay more than the Texas state average for Dental Assistants?

The Houston metro median is -13.5% versus the Texas state median of $42,270.

How does Houston compare to the national median for Dental Assistants?

The Houston metro median is -22.9% versus the BLS national figure of $47,443.

What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in Houston?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $29,660 and the 90th-percentile at $56,010 for the Houston 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.

Dental Assistants Salary in Houston, Texas

Median annual$36,580

Mean annual$39,870

Range (10th to 90th)$29,660 to $56,010

Houston, Texas employment8,090

State vs national-22.9% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Houston dental assistants fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

The middle 50% of workers earn between $30,240 and $46,230, with a median of $36,580.

Typical entry

Education
Postsecondary nondegree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge
4.5 / 5
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Near Vision
Ability
4.1 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
4.0 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
3.9 / 5
Active Listening
Basic skill
3.9 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
3.8 / 5
Speech Recognition
Ability
3.8 / 5

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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Other metros in Texas

How the Houston metro compares to other major Texas metro areas for dental assistants.

Dallas$46,830
Austin$44,760
San Antonio$40,450

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Dental Assistants in Houston, Texas?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Dental Assistants in the Houston metropolitan area is $36,580.
Does Houston pay more than the Texas state average for Dental Assistants?: The Houston metro median is -13.5% versus the Texas state median of $42,270.
How does Houston compare to the national median for Dental Assistants?: The Houston metro median is -22.9% versus the BLS national figure of $47,443.
What is the salary range for Dental Assistants in Houston?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $29,660 and the 90th-percentile at $56,010 for the Houston 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.

Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Houston 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.