How to Become a Dental Assistants in Texas
Dental Assistants in Texas earn a median salary of $42,270/year, which is 11% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental assistants takes home approximately $1,588/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a dental assistants can afford in Texas
Becoming a dental assistants in Texas
Meet education requirements
Dental Assistants positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental assistants positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 31,360 dental assistants. The highest concentrations are in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington and Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos.
Dental Assistants salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $47K | $22.52/hr | 8,310 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $45K | $21.52/hr | 2,990 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $40K | $19.45/hr | 3,200 |
| Midland | $39K | $18.8/hr | 160 |
| Odessa | $39K | $18.78/hr | 120 |
| Tyler | $38K | $18.42/hr | 380 |
| Killeen-Temple | $38K | $18.35/hr | 440 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $38K | $18.18/hr | 330 |
| Sherman-Denison | $38K | $18.06/hr | 280 |
| El Paso | $37K | $17.94/hr | 830 |
| Corpus Christi | $37K | $17.9/hr | 380 |
| Victoria | $37K | $17.87/hr | 80 |
| College Station-Bryan | $37K | $17.75/hr | 270 |
| Amarillo | $37K | $17.72/hr | 290 |
| Abilene | $37K | $17.67/hr | 180 |
Dental Assistants salary range in Texas
Dental Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental assistants make in Texas?▼
The median dental assistants salary in Texas is $42,270 per year ($20.32/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $47,300. Salaries range from $29,970 to $55,400.
What are the requirements to become a dental assistants in Texas?▼
Dental Assistants positions in Texas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental assistants afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $42,270, a dental assistants in Texas would take home approximately $3,000/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 47.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental assistants in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental assistants in Texas are Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($46,830), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($44,760), San Antonio-New Braunfels ($40,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for dental assistants?▼
No, Texas 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.