How to Become a Dental Assistants in Tennessee
Dental Assistants in Tennessee earn a median salary of $46,090/year, which is 3% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,844/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a dental assistants in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 6,370 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Johnson City and Memphis.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Johnson City | $48K | $22.85/hr | 220 |
| Memphis | $47K | $22.39/hr | 990 |
| Jackson | $47K | $22.36/hr | 170 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $46K | $22.24/hr | 2,370 |
| Clarksville | $46K | $22.19/hr | 280 |
| Knoxville | $46K | $22.16/hr | 780 |
| Chattanooga | $45K | $21.82/hr | 590 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $43K | $20.69/hr | 320 |
| Cleveland | $43K | $20.59/hr | 120 |
| Morristown | $41K | $19.89/hr | 110 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Tennessee
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in Tennessee?▼
The median dental assistants salary in Tennessee is $46,090 per year ($22.16/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $36,780 to $59,210.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Tennessee?▼
Dental Assistants positions in Tennessee typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $46,090, a dental assistants in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,256/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Tennessee are Johnson City ($47,530), Memphis ($46,580), Jackson ($46,520). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means dental assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.