“Asking for a raise means you’re taking money from the dentist’s salary.”
Where does this idea come from? Why is it wrong? And most importantly, how does it affect dental assistants, dental practices, and even patients?
Let’s break it down.
Dental Assistants Have Legal Rights to Fair Pay
First off, it’s important to know that dental assistants have legal protections when it comes to talking about wages. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects employees’ rights to discuss pay and working conditions without fear of punishment (National Labor Relations Board). So, asking for a raise is not “stealing” — it’s a legal right and a normal part of any job.
The idea that wage increases are just money “taken” from the dentist assumes a fixed pot of cash that can’t grow or shift. In reality, paying your dental assistants fairly is an investment in your practice. When assistants are paid well, they’re more motivated and less likely to quit — saving the practice money in the long run (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Dental Assistants Are More Than Chairside Helpers
Dental assistants do so much more than just assist the dentist during procedures. They prepare tools, sterilize equipment, help keep patients calm, handle administrative tasks, and juggle many responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
Discouraging assistants from asking for fair pay undervalues this hard work and can stunt career growth. According to the American Dental Assistants Association, assistants who feel appreciated and properly compensated are more likely to stay in their jobs and seek further training — which benefits the whole practice (American Dental Assistants Association).
Instructors Should Be Role Models — Not Roadblocks
Dental assisting instructors have a big influence on how students view their profession. If they tell students that asking for a raise is wrong or selfish, they’re sending the wrong message.
Instead, instructors should teach students to confidently advocate for themselves and to understand the business side of dentistry. That knowledge helps students become well-rounded professionals who know their worth and how to negotiate respectfully.
When Assistants Are Undervalued, Patients Feel It Too
It’s not just about wages or workplace harmony — it affects patients as well. When assistants are underpaid and undervalued, they tend to feel burnt out and less engaged. That can lead to mistakes, less caring interactions, and disruptions in the practice (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
On the other hand, a motivated, fairly compensated team leads to better patient care, smoother operations, and happier patients.
Final Thoughts
Telling dental assistants that asking for a raise is “taking money from the dentist” is a harmful myth. It ignores the legal rights of workers, the critical role assistants play, and the benefits of fair compensation for everyone involved.
Dental assistants deserve to know their value and have open conversations about wages. Instructors, dentists, and the dental community should encourage and support these discussions for healthier workplaces and better care.
Works Cited
American Dental Assistants Association. Career Growth & Development. ADAA, 2024, www.adaausa.org/career-growth. Accessed 22 May 2025.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Dental Assistants.” Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-assistants.htm. Accessed 22 May 2025.
National Labor Relations Board. “Employee Rights.” NLRB, www.nlrb.gov/about-nlrb/rights-we-protect/employee-rights. Accessed 22 May 2025.