X-ray dental nurse

What does a radiographic dental assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A radiographic dental assistant works closely with dentists and other dental staff, responsible for assisting with and performing radiographic examinations within dental care. Tasks include patient preparation, handling radiography equipment, image capturing, as well as post-processing and record keeping. The role also involves informing and calming patients before examinations and ensuring radiation safety regulations are followed. The work is typically carried out at dental clinics, both public and private, where the work environment demands precision, hygiene, and patient safety.

Salary development over time

The salary development for radiographic dental assistants has been clearly positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK per month and increased to 31 200 SEK in 2023, representing an increase of about 5%. In 2024, the average salary continued to rise and reached 33 500 SEK, an increase of an additional 7% compared to the previous year. This salary growth can be explained by increased demand for dental staff, skills enhancement within the profession, and a general trend toward higher wages in healthcare. The market's need for qualified dental assistants with radiography skills has also contributed to strengthening this positive trend.

Radiographic dental assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (male, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (male, public sector)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Women: 33 500 SEK/month (highest salary 37,800 SEK, lowest salary 28,900 SEK)
• Men: 30 200 SEK/month (highest salary 38,100 SEK, lowest salary 27,300 SEK)
• Women earn: 111% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a radiographic dental assistant, a basic education as a dental assistant is required, often supplemented with specific radiography skills. The education is usually vocational college-based and includes both theoretical and practical components, including internships at dental clinics. After completing the education, additional courses or certifications in radiography can be advantageous to strengthen one's position in the job market.

• Formal education: Vocational college education for dental assistants (about 1.5 years)
• Supplementary courses: Radiography skills and radiation protection
• Internship: Longer internship periods are included in the education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on healthcare and care
• Certification: Opportunities for further training in dental radiography

Common benefits and compensations

Radiographic dental assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and subsidized dental care. Other common compensations include night shift allowances and opportunities for professional development through courses and internal training. The extent of benefits varies between employers and sectors.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a radiographic dental assistant is assessed as moderate, with a balanced job market according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. The main challenge is staying updated on new technology and changing routines within dental radiography. Workload can vary, especially during high patient throughput, demanding resilience and organizational skills. Some regions may have higher competition for attractive workplaces, while others have greater staffing needs. The technological development, including digitalization of radiography and journal systems, also means that job tasks evolve over time.

Tips for aspiring radiographic dental assistants

To succeed as a radiographic dental assistant, it is beneficial to combine a strong interest in technology with a genuine commitment to patient care. Precision and responsibility are crucial, as the work requires strict adherence to safety routines and documentation. Being communicative and pedagogical is an advantage, as many patients need clear information and support before radiographic examinations. Flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes in workflow facilitate daily work at a dental clinic. Furthermore, showing initiative and continuously seeking new knowledge in radiography and radiation safety are valuable. A friendly and professional attitude creates trust among patients and colleagues, which is central to the role.

Key facts about Radiographic Dental Assistant

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Salary range: 27,300–38,100 SEK/month
• Education: Vocational college, approx. 1.5 years
• Gender distribution: Women earn 111% of what men do
• Job market: Moderate opportunities, 375 available jobs

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to specialize further in dental radiography or take on more advanced tasks, such as supervising students and new employees. Some choose to further their education in radiation safety or administration, which can lead to roles as coordinators or quality controllers at clinics. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates that job opportunities nationwide are moderate, with demand expected to remain stable over five years. With a growing population and increased focus on preventive dental care, there will still be a need for skilled radiographic dental assistants in both public and private sectors. Regional differences may exist, but technological advancements and digitalization in dentistry make the profession attractive in the future as well.

Frequently asked questions about Radiographic Dental Assistants

• What is the average salary of a radiographic dental assistant?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for radiographic dental assistants been?
  - It has increased from 29,700 SEK in 2022 to 33 500 SEK in 2024, a positive growth of about 13% over three years.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn 33 500 SEK on average, which is 111% of what men earn, with a maximum of 30 200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a radiographic dental assistant?
  - Vocational college education for dental assistants, about 1.5 years, often supplemented with radiography courses.
• What is the job market like for radiographic dental assistants?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate opportunities and 375 available jobs nationwide within the profession.
• What is the salary range for radiographic dental assistants?
  - Salaries vary between 27,300 SEK and 38,100 SEK per month depending on experience, sector, and education.
• What does a radiographic dental assistant do?
  - The work involves taking and managing radiographic images in dental care and assisting dentists and patients.