Dental Assistant in Bellevue, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Bellevue Stands

Bellevue, Nebraska, offers a stable and affordable entry point for dental assistants, but it's important to ground expectations in local data. The median salary for a dental assistant in the Bellevue metro area is $43,811 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.06 per hour. This figure, sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area (which includes Bellevue), sits slightly below the national average of $44,820/year. It’s a modest difference, but one offset by the region’s significantly lower cost of living.

The job market, while not booming, is consistent. There are approximately 128 dental assistant jobs in the metro area, reflecting a steady demand driven by an aging population and continued focus on oral health. Over the next decade, the field is projected to grow by 7%, a rate that aligns with national trends and ensures a reliable career path for those already in the area.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in the Bellevue area:

Experience Level	Typical Bellevue Salary Range (Annual)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	Often starts in general practice. Certification (CDA) can push you toward the higher end.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$41,000 - $47,000	This is close to the median. Specialized skills (e.g., orthodontic assisting, oral surgery) begin to pay off here.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$48,000 - $54,000	Often involves lead assistant roles, training new hires, or working in complex specialties.
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$55,000+	Rare in Bellevue proper but achievable in Omaha's specialized clinics or with significant managerial responsibility.

When compared to other Nebraska cities, Bellevue's salary is competitive for its cost of living. Lincoln often shows a slightly higher median (around $45,000), but its cost of living is also higher. Omaha, the major metro neighbor, has more jobs but also higher competition and slightly higher rents. For a dental assistant prioritizing affordability and a shorter commute, Bellevue presents a compelling balance.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

To understand the true financial picture, we must look beyond gross pay. Using the median salary of $43,811, a single filer (assuming standard deduction, no dependents, and typical NE state taxes) would take home approximately $36,500 annually, or about $3,042 per month.

This take-home pay must cover Bellevue's affordable housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $878 per month. This leaves $2,164 for all other expenses.

Here is a conservative monthly budget breakdown for a dental assistant earning the median wage in Bellevue:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Details & Insider Tips
Rent (1BR)	$878	The $878 average is a great starting point. Older buildings in South Bellevue or near the older parts of 24th Street can be cheaper. Newer complexes off Cornhusker Road or near the military base (Offutt AFB) trend higher.
Utilities	$150 - $200	Includes electricity, gas, water, trash. Nebraska's variable weather impacts winter heating bills. Internet is typically $60-$80.
Groceries	$300 - $350	Bellevue has good local options like the Bellevue Farmers Market (seasonal) and affordable chains like Fareway and Hy-Vee.
Transportation	$250 - $400	This is the biggest variable. If you live and work in Bellevue, a car is helpful but not always essential. The OR Metro transit bus #2 runs along 24th St, connecting to Omaha. Commuting to Omaha for work adds fuel and wear.
Health Insurance	$150 - $250	Varies wildly by employer. Many dental offices offer shared-cost plans.
Personal/Discretionary	$300 - $500	Includes phone, streaming, entertainment, clothing, savings.
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,028 - $2,578

Can they afford to buy a home? It's challenging but possible with disciplined savings. The median home sale price in Bellevue is around $220,000. A 10% down payment would be $22,000. On a $43,811 salary, a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely be near the top of the recommended 30% of take-home pay, straining the budget. However, for a dual-income household or after gaining a few years of experience for a higher salary, homeownership in Bellevue is a realistic long-term goal.

Where the Jobs Are: Bellevue's Major Employers

Bellevue's dental job market is anchored by a mix of large, multi-location groups and smaller, private practices. The presence of Offutt Air Force Base also creates a unique, stable clientele. Here are the key local employers:

1. Bellevue Family Dental (and similar independent practices): Like many small towns, Bellevue has several long-standing family-owned practices. They often hire directly from local schools (like Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs) and value community roots. Hiring is steady but not frequent—these jobs often open due to retirement or expansion rather than rapid growth.

2. Children's Dental Center (Omaha Metro): While based in Omaha, this large, pediatric-focused practice has a significant patient base in Bellevue and South Omaha. They frequently hire for multiple locations, offering a path to work in a dynamic, specialty environment without leaving the metro. They often have structured training for new assistants.

3. Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) Health - Missouri Valley: This network, part of the larger CHI system, includes clinics and affiliated dental services in the Bellevue/Omaha area. Working for a large health system can offer better benefits, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities to move into different specialties or locations.

4. Heartland Family Dentistry (Council Bluffs): Just a short drive across the river, this large practice serves the entire metro. They have a high patient volume and often need to staff multiple dental chairs, leading to more frequent openings than a small Bellevue shop. The commute via I-80/29 is straightforward.

5. Offutt Air Force Base - 55th Medical Group: The base has its own dental clinic serving active duty personnel and their families. These are federal jobs, often posted on USAJOBS.gov. They offer exceptional stability, federal benefits, and a structured work environment. Hiring can be slow and competitive, but they are a major employer of dental assistants in the area.

6. South Omaha Dental (and similar large Omaha practices): Many dental assistants in Bellevue commute 15-25 minutes into Omaha for a wider variety of jobs. Large, high-volume practices in South Omaha (like South Omaha Dental) or the Dundee area often have more openings and higher pay potential due to the larger client base.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward consolidation. Larger groups are acquiring smaller practices, meaning more jobs are with corporate entities rather than sole practitioners. This can mean more standardized training but potentially less personal connection. The demand is consistent for certified assistants, especially those with experience in digital X-rays and patient scheduling software.

Getting Licensed in NE

Nebraska has a straightforward licensing process for dental assistants, but it's crucial to follow the state's rules. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Board of Dentistry, oversees this.

Key Requirements:

• Education: You must graduate from a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). There are no CODA-accredited programs in Bellevue, but several excellent ones are within a short drive:
  • Iowa Western Community College (Council Bluffs, ~15 min drive) - A highly regarded program.
  • Metropolitan Community College (Omaha, ~20 min drive) - Multiple campuses with CODA programs.
  • University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry (Lincoln, ~1 hour drive) - Offers a dental assisting program.
• National Certification (Optional but Recommended): While Nebraska does not require national certification to perform expanded functions, most employers strongly prefer it. The most common is the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). It demonstrates competency and can lead to higher starting pay.
• State Registration: Upon graduation, you must register with the Nebraska State Board of Dentistry. This involves submitting an application, proof of graduation from a CODA program, and the requisite fee (approximately $50). You must also pass a background check.
• Expanded Functions: To perform certain procedures (e.g., applying sealants, taking final impressions), you must complete additional training and certification through a Nebraska-approved course. These courses are often offered through the state dental association or continuing education providers.

Timeline & Cost:

• Education: A CODA program typically takes 9-12 months. Tuition at Iowa Western is around $5,000-$7,000 for the entire program, not including textbooks and supplies.
• Registration: After graduation, the registration process takes 4-6 weeks.
• Total Entry Cost: Budget $6,000-$8,500 for education, certification exams, and state registration fees.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Assistants

Bellevue is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different vibe and commute. Here’s a breakdown for someone earning the median salary:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Rent (1BR Est.)	Commute to Major Employers
South Bellevue / Historic District	Quaint, walkable, with older homes and character. Close to the historic "Main Street" and Harrah's Casino. Feels like a small town within the city.	$750 - $950	Excellent. Most dental offices are on or near 24th Street, which runs through here. Easy 5-10 minute drive.
Northwest Bellevue (near 24th & Cornhusker)	More modern, commercial area with big-box stores, chain restaurants, and newer apartment complexes. Very convenient for shopping.	$850 - $1,100	Excellent. Direct access to 24th Street. A 5-10 minute drive to most offices.
Offutt AFB Area	A mix of base housing and civilian apartments. Very community-focused, but can be isolated from the rest of Bellevue.	$800 - $1,000	Excellent (to the base). A 5-minute drive to the 55th Medical Group. A 15-minute drive to other offices in Bellevue proper.
South Omaha (near 24th & L)	Technically in Omaha, but a direct 10-minute drive south of Bellevue. More urban, diverse, with lower rents and a larger job market.	$700 - $900	Good. A 10-20 minute commute to Bellevue offices, but a huge number of jobs are right in this neighborhood.
Ralston (West of Bellevue)	A separate suburb with a strong community feel, good schools, and a pleasant downtown. More residential and family-oriented.	$850 - $1,050	Fair. A 15-25 minute commute via L Street or Ames Avenue to Bellevue offices.

Insider Tip: For a dental assistant prioritizing a short commute and walkability, South Bellevue is unbeatable. For someone who wants more modern amenities and a quicker path to Omaha's job market, looking at apartments near 24th and Cornhusker or in South Omaha is a smart move.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Bellevue, career growth for a dental assistant is more about specialization and certification than dramatic title changes. The path typically looks like this:

1. General Practice Foundation (Years 1-3): Master chairside assisting, sterilization, and patient communication. Obtain your CDA.
2. Specialty Focus (Years 3-7): Seek out a practice that does orthodontics, oral surgery, or periodontics. These specialties often pay a premium of 10-15% above general practice salaries. In Bellevue, orthodontic assistants are in steady demand due to several well-established ortho offices.
3. Advanced Certifications (Years 5+): Pursue certifications in radiology (for a broader scope), coronal polishing, or anesthesia monitoring. These make you a more valuable "expanded function" assistant.
4. Leadership & Education (Years 10+): A path to becoming an office manager (requires business skills), a lead assistant/trainer, or an instructor at a local CODA program (like Iowa Western). Some assistants also move into dental product sales or dental hygiene (requires a separate degree).

10-Year Outlook: The 7% job growth is solid. The real opportunity lies in the retirement of older dentists and assistants in the area, creating openings. Assistants who embrace digital dentistry (CAD/CAM, intraoral scanners) will be most in demand. While Bellevue itself won't see explosive growth, the Omaha metro will continue to absorb talent, offering a wider career ladder within a 25-minute commute.

The Verdict: Is Bellevue Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $43,811 salary goes much further here than in most metro areas.	Limited Local Specialties: To work in high-end specialties (e.g., endodontics, prosthodontics), you'll likely commute to Omaha.
Stable, Predictable Job Market: Steady demand with a 7% growth projection.	Smaller Job Pool: Only 128 jobs means fewer openings and potentially less competition for employers to offer premium pay.
Short Commutes: Most of Bellevue is 10-15 minutes from everything.	"Small Town" Feel: Can lack the diversity and cultural amenities of a larger city.
Strong Military Base Influence: Offutt AFB provides a stable, recession-resistant employer.	Career Ceiling: Without moving to Omaha, advancement to top-tier salaries is limited.
Family-Friendly & Safe: Consistently ranked as one of Nebraska's best places to live.	Weather: Hot summers, cold winters, and occasional severe storms.

Final Recommendation: Bellevue is an excellent choice for dental assistants who prioritize affordability, work-life balance, and stability. It's ideal for those starting their careers, planning a family, or seeking a calm environment. If you're ambitious about working in cutting-edge specialties or earning the very top of the salary range, you should plan on a commute to Omaha. For most, starting in Bellevue provides a fantastic foundation to build a long-term career in the region.

FAQs

Q: Can I work as a dental assistant in Nebraska without a CODA certification?
A: No, to be registered by the state and perform expanded functions, you must graduate from a CODA-accredited program. Some offices might hire you as an "unregistered assistant" for basic sterilization and front-desk duties, but your opportunities and pay will be severely limited.

Q: Is it worth commuting from Bellevue to Omaha for a higher salary?
A: Absolutely. A job in Omaha might offer a salary of $47,000-$50,000 for a mid-level assistant. After subtracting the cost of gas and time (approx. 30-45 minutes each way), the net gain is still positive. More importantly, it opens doors to specialties and larger employers not found in Bellevue.

Q: How competitive is the job market for new graduates?
A: Moderate. With only 128 jobs in the metro, openings are prized. Having a CODA certification and being willing to start in a general practice is key. Networking through your school's career services and visiting local offices with a resume can give you an edge over online applicants.

Q: What's the best way to find a dental assistant job in Bellevue?
A: Local networks are everything. Check the "Career" pages on the websites of the employers listed above. Use Indeed and LinkedIn, but also contact the Nebraska Dental Association for job postings. A well-timed phone call or in-person visit to a practice manager in Bellevue can lead to an interview.

Q: Can I live comfortably in Bellevue on the median salary?
A: Yes, but with mindful budgeting. The $878 average rent is the biggest help. With a take-home of about $3,042/month, you can cover all essentials and still have money for savings and fun if you avoid unnecessary car payments and manage discretionary spending. It's a financially sustainable career in Bellevue.