Many (if not most) dental assistants do not ask for raises, so we want to congratulate you for taking this action. Sometimes asking for a raise is not initially successful, but subsequent efforts may be. Remember, by asking for a wage increase, you are also educating the dentist as to what is a fair wage. Many dentists contract with practice consultants who focus on the bottom line. All businesses know that they can maximize the bottom line through salary management.The motto in asking for a wage increase is, “don’t give up.” Continue to demonstrate your worth to your employer by actually documenting what you bring to the bottom line. That being said, you must also be realistic and recognize when it is time for you to dust off your resume and look for alternative work. You cannot beat your head against a brick wall. Wages for dental assistants in Ontario vary greatly, and for no obvious reason. It appears to depend on whom you work for.If more dental assistants asked for increased wages, we believe we would see some success. As dental assistants, it’s important to recognize that you do work of great value that deserves fair compensation. We must all work together to achieve success in wages. There are many dental assistants who are paid decent wages. You should be too.