After a few years of formal education and many hours, board exams and many fees later, I can't believe my profession is looked down on. There are ethical implecations missed.  Think about the patients. For all the assistants who could do the hygienist job, there is going back to school as an option. I did 13 years ago.  When I feel I can do my employers job, I will go back to school some more. The dental assisstant is a very important person in the office, mainly over worked. Assisstants beware of what is being proposed. Dentist think about what your asking and see if it is about money and look at your assisstant and tell them you just do not wish to pay some one trained, that you just rather add to their load and pay them less.  If the proposed is considered, I naturally think the assisstants should be paid the same. Same job, same pay. Who cares about education, right?