About this field

Dental care is one of the most stable and growing sectors in Massachusetts healthcare. With thousands of dental positions open statewide and persistent shortages in dental assistant and dental hygienist roles, Central MA dental practices are actively looking for motivated people to join their teams. Many are willing to train the right candidates on the job.

What makes dental careers especially accessible is the range of entry points. You don't need a four-year degree to get started. A dental assistant can either be trained while working in a dental office or by earning a certificate complete in six to twelve months, opening the door to a well-paying, full-time job with benefits. From there, the pathway grows: assistants may advance to office manager roles or return to school for hygiene licensure.

This pathway is offered in partnership with the Massachusetts Dental Society and participating member dental practices across Worcester County. By expressing interest, you'll have the opportunity to connect with local employers who are actively engaged in our Career Pathways initiative. Your information will be reviewed by a real person at a dental practice, who may reach out directly to discuss potential opportunities.

View the slides from our recent webinar for an overview of the career path and how to get started.