Dental Assistant vs Radiology Technician
Key Points:
- Dental assistants provide chair-side support; radiology technicians operate imaging equipment and perform diagnostic tests.
- Dental assistants typically earn less than radiology technicians, with average salaries ranging from $35,000 to $45,000 and $55,000 to $70,000, respectively.
- Both fields are projected to have steady job growth.
- Dental assistant training can be completed through certificate programs, while radiology technician programs typically require an associate's degree or higher.
- Dental assistant programs are generally shorter and less expensive than radiology technician programs, which can take 2-4 years to complete.
Are you considering a career in the healthcare field but unsure which path to take? Two popular options to consider are becoming a dental assistant or a radiology technician. Both professions offer rewarding opportunities to work in a medical setting and help patients, but there are distinct differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of dental assistants and radiology technicians, as well as the educational requirements and career outlook for each profession. By the end, you should have a better understanding of which path may be the best fit for you.
Dental Assistant vs Radiology Technician: Education and Training
Dental Assistant
Becoming a dental assistant typically requires completing a dental assisting program, which can range from several months to one year in length. These programs are available at community colleges, technical schools, and vocational institutes. Some states may also require dental assistants to obtain certification or licensure, which often involves passing an examination.
Radiology Technician
To become a radiology technician, individuals must complete an accredited radiologic technology program, which typically takes two years to complete. These programs are available at community colleges, universities, and hospitals. After completing their education, radiology technicians must also obtain certification, which is usually done through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Dental Assistant vs Radiology Technician: Career Outlook and Salary
Dental Assistant
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of dental assistants is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for dental assistants was $40,080 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $56,930.
Radiology Technician
The BLS projects a 7% increase in employment for radiologic technologists and technicians from 2019 to 2029. This growth is attributed to the aging population and increased demand for diagnostic imaging. The median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $62,280 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $85,160.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a career path in the healthcare field is an important decision that should be based on your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Both dental assisting and radiology technology offer rewarding opportunities to work in a medical setting and make a difference in patients' lives. Consider your personal preferences, educational requirements, and career prospects when deciding between dental assistant and radiology technician. Whichever path you choose, you can be confident that you are entering a growing industry with ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Dreambound's educational programs open doors to exciting opportunities. For a more comprehensive understanding of the potential within these two vocations, we invite you to explore further details by visiting:
Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.
