Some work only part time or engage in job sharing. Hours can include evenings and Saturdays, as more dentists have their businesses open at these times in order to meet patients' needs. These workers may handle patients with contagious diseases. As a result, dental assistants must take protective measures, such as wearing masks and gloves. There are differences in the salaries earned by certified and uncertified dental assistants.
Dental assistants make up a medium-sized occupational group.
Employment of dental assistants was estimated at 4,830 in 1998, up from 3,960 in 1990. As they work with dentists, dental assistants are generally not self-employed. The unemployment rate for dental assistants is lower than the provincial average. This reflects steady demand for dental services and, as a result, steady employment demand for dental assistants. The work is minimally affected by economic ups and downs, and seasonal fluctuations in employment are rare.