Recession-Proof Careers: Transitioning from Dental Assisting to a Stable Job

The dental assistant profession is a fulfilling career path that offers a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, like many industries, the dental field can be subject to economic downturns, which can affect job security and income potential. In this article, we will explore some recession-proof career options for dental assistants who are seeking a stable job.

Medical Assistant Medical assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings, such as physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient care centers. They take vital signs, administer medications, and assist with medical procedures. They also manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance claims.For dental assistants who want to transition to a recession-proof career, becoming a medical assistant can be a promising option. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for medical assistants was $35,850 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The top 10 percent of earners in the profession made more than $50,580 per year.

Pharmacy Technician Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing prescription medications to patients. They receive and verify prescriptions, prepare medications, and label and package them for distribution. They also manage inventory, handle insurance claims, and provide customer service to patients.For dental assistants who are interested in the healthcare field and want to transition to a recession-proof career, becoming a pharmacy technician can be a good option. The BLS projects employment of pharmacy technicians to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,610 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The top 10 percent of earners in the profession made more than $49,130 per year.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Occupational therapy assistants help patients with injuries, disabilities, and illnesses develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. They work under the supervision of occupational therapists to develop treatment plans, teach patients how to use equipment and perform exercises, and document patient progress.

For dental assistants who are interested in the healthcare field and want to transition to a recession-proof career, becoming an occupational therapy assistant can be a promising option. The BLS projects employment of occupational therapy assistants to grow 35 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.The median annual wage for occupational therapy assistants was $62,940 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The top 10 percent of earners in the profession made more than $83,730 per year.

Veterinary Technician Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in caring for animals. They perform medical tests, administer medications, and assist with medical procedures. They also manage patient records, communicate with pet owners, and assist with the daily care of animals.For dental assistants who are animal lovers and want to transition to a recession-proof career, becoming a veterinary technician can be a good option. The BLS projects employment of veterinary technologists and technicians to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians was $36,260 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The top 10 percent of earners in the profession made more than $52,410 per year.Information Technology Specialist Information technology (IT) specialists design, install, and maintain computer systems and networks for businesses and organizations.