FAQs

Graduates can expect to earn between $19–$25 per hour in entry-level dental assistant roles in Maryland. Pay may increase with experience and additional certifications. 

Average DA Salary

~$23/hour

~$43,000 – $50,000/year

In areas like Silver Spring, Bethesda, Rockville, it trends slightly higher: ~$23–$25/hour

However to your advantage at SPDAA you recieve hands-on experience + externship → faster hiring → faster pay increases

As you gain experience and pursue additional certifications, your earning potential can increase significantly. Dental assistants may advance their careers by obtaining credentials from the national board such as:

-CDA (Certified Dental Assistant)

-EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Assistant)

-Radiology Certifications (RHS) (Your first attempt fo rthis exam is ocvered within th ecourse)

With these advancements, dental assistants can earn approximately:

~$25–$30+ per hour in more advanced clinical roles

~$50,000–$65,000+ annually, depending on experience, specialization, and office setting

Yes! Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive your CPR certification and your Dental Assisting Certificate from Smiles Plus Dental Assistant Academy, recognizing your training in:

104 hours of chairside assisting

24 hours of dental radiology

2 hours of infection control

While this certificate qualifies you for entry-level dental assisting positions and demonstrates your hands-on clinical training, your invaluable training is what dentists will value.

Further upon successful completion of the RHS exam we have you apply for you will gain your Radiology Certification (Required for Advancement)

To legally take dental X-rays in Maryland, you must pass the Maryland Dental Radiology (RHS) Exam. This certification is essential for most dental assisting roles, and our program helps you prepare and apply for your first  attempt at the exam. The cost of your first attempt at this exam is covered in your tuition.

No prior dental experience is required. Our program is designed for beginners and will guide you through everything you need to know to start your dental assisting career with confidence.

In-office experience is not required for the general dental assisting portion, but it is required for the Dental Radiology section of the program.

We understand that life happens. If you miss a class, we encourage you to reach out to your instructor immediately. Makeup options may be available, but attendance is key for successful course completion. Please note that excessive absences could impact your eligibility for certification.

Yes, all essential materials are included in your tuition fee. You’ll have everything you need to succeed from day one.

Smiles Plus Dental Assisting Academy is conveniently located in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. We’re easily accessible for students commuting from nearby areas. Our address is 801 Wayne Avenue, Suite 101, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

• Hygiene Assistant: Before the hygienist begins cleaning teeth, the hygiene assistant gets the dental patient ready for the procedure. This requires medical knowledge and a confident, reassuring personality.
• Endodontic Assistant: Root canals require a skilled dentist and an equally capable dental assistant.
• Pediatric Assistant: A pediatric assistant works with dentists and directly with children patients.
• General Dental Assistant: A dental assistant assists the dental practice with office tasks and patient care.

As graduates gain experience, they may also transition into roles such as:

~Lead Dental Assistant

~Treatment Coordinator

~Dental Office Administrator

Many of our graduates go on to further advance their careers by pursuing additional certifications. For example, graduates may choose to obtain their Radiology (RHS) certification by the end of our program and continue preparing for other nationally recognized credentials such as the CDA (Certified Dental Assistant), EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Assistant), or NELDA (National Entry Level Dental Assistant). These advancements can lead to increased responsibilities, higher-level positions, and greater earning potential.

Graduates who are interested in these pathways are encouraged to connect with our team. We are happy to provide guidance and continued support as they progress in their careers and proudly represent Smiles Plus Dental Assistant Academy.

• Dental assisting is a career with multiple levels of growth:
• Entry-Level Dental Assistant : Begin working in a dental office with hands-on training (what our program prepares you for)
• Radiology Certified Assistant (RHS) : Qualified to take X-rays and perform essential clinical duties.  (what our program assists you in)
• CDA (Certified Dental Assistant): Nationally recognized certification demonstrating advanced knowledge and experience. The RHS exam is 1 of 3 component exams to becoming a CDA alongside other leigibility requirements.
• EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Assistant) : Allows you to perform more advanced procedures (varies by state). Specialized or Leadership Roles. Opportunities in oral surgery, orthodontics, office management, and more
• The more you advance the bigger the reward and hireability rate.