Hospital nurse

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

A hospital dental assistant works alongside dentists and other specialists within hospital dentistry, where the focus is often on more advanced and medically complex cases compared to traditional general dentistry. Tasks include assisting the dentist during treatments, preparing and sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays, and providing support and information to patients before and after procedures. The environment is characterized by a fast pace and close collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, where flexibility and stress management are crucial. The patient group often includes individuals with special needs or underlying health conditions, which places additional demands on the professional role.

Salary development over time

The salary of a hospital dental assistant has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 31 200 SEK in 2023. The latest statistics from 2024 show a further increase to 33 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 13% over the period. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified dental assistants in specialist dental care, as well as a general appreciation of the role within the healthcare sector. Factors influencing salary development include competence requirements, work environment, and level of responsibility, with hospital dental assistants often handling more complex patient cases than their general dentistry counterparts.

Hospital dental assistant salary – complete 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
• Men: 30 200 SEK/month
• Women earn: 111 % of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a hospital dental assistant, a vocational university degree as a dental assistant is generally required, supplemented with experience from specialist dental care or hospital environments. The education includes both theoretical and practical components and provides a broad foundation in dentistry, patient interaction, and assistance during various treatments. In some cases, further training or specialized courses in areas such as anesthesia or surgical assistance may be advantageous.

• Vocational university degree: Dental assistant education (1.5 years)
• Internship: Longer practical periods are included in the education
• Specialized courses: Opportunities for further education within hospital dentistry
• Prerequisites: Complete high school diploma, preferably with a focus on healthcare and care
• Further development: Experience from specialist dental care provides an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as paid professional development, wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and flexible working hours are often offered. In some regions, there are also shift allowances for work during evenings and weekends, as well as pension contributions and access to employee health services. Employers within hospital dentistry may also support further education and specialization.

Challenges and competition

The job market for hospital dental assistants is characterized by balance, with the number of available positions matching the supply of trained personnel. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the profession, the opportunities for work are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession can include a high pace, emotionally demanding patient contact, and the need for continuous skill development. Competition for the most attractive positions within specialist dental care may be greater in larger urban areas, where salary levels can also vary somewhat.

Tips for aspiring hospital dental assistants

To succeed as a hospital dental assistant, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of service and empathy, as patient contact often requires responsiveness and understanding. Precision is an important trait, especially when handling instruments and medical records. Being flexible and stress-resistant helps in unexpected situations and rapid changes during the workday. Demonstrating teamwork skills is also valuable, as the work is closely integrated with dentists and other professionals. Actively seeking internships in hospital dentistry provides a good start and opportunities to network. Finally, an interest in further education and specialization can significantly impact long-term career development.

Key facts about Hospital Dental Assistants

• Salary range: 27,300–38,100 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational university degree (1.5 years)
• Work environment: Hospitals, specialist dental care, team collaboration
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, 375 available jobs nationwide
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 111 % of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a hospital dental assistant can advance to more specialized roles, such as surgical assistance, anesthesia care, or supervising students and new colleagues. Some choose to further their education in areas like oral surgery or administration and can take on roles as coordinators or departmental managers. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook is stable, with an unchanged demand for dental assistants over the next five years and a balanced recruitment situation. This indicates that the profession remains attractive, especially for those willing to develop their skills within specialist dental care.

Frequently asked questions about Hospital Dental Assistants

• What does a hospital dental assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a hospital dental assistant?
  - A vocational university degree as a dental assistant (1.5 years) is required, preferably supplemented with experience from specialist dental care.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 111 % of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for hospital dental assistants?
  - The job market is balanced, with about 375 available jobs nationwide and moderate opportunities.
• What is the hourly wage for a hospital dental assistant?
  - The average hourly wage is 201 SEK.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 38,100 SEK and the lowest is 27,300 SEK per month.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Empathy, accuracy, teamwork skills, and stress tolerance are highly valued.