I am currently studying at CFCC to access the dental assisting program. After graduating, I would like to get a job in an orthodontist's office. Employment in this occupation is actually expected to grow much faster than average; between 2008 and 2018, employment is expected to grow by 36 percent. Job demand in the Cape Fear region appears to be quite higher than in other areas of North Carolina, as well as some other states. The average starting salary for dental assistants in 2008 was approximately $32,774. In 2008, the poorest 10 percent of workers earned about $22,270, and the richest 10 percent earned more than $46,150. These numbers have increased since 2008, but annual salaries still vary widely depending on the type of firm you work at. If you work in a doctor's office, you'll probably only earn an average of $31,240; if you work in a federal branch, you can earn on average more than $39,201. Some employers will offer their workers dental benefits which can increase the value of the job. In most states, a high school diploma is the only education requirement for dental assistants because the employer will provide the worker with on-the-job training. On-the-job training is sometimes required for employees who have already graduated from an accredited college and have a degree in dental assisting. Some states require you to obtain a license or registration, complete an accredited program at a college, and take and pass an exam. Many states even require that you continue your education to maintain your license. There are a few things that are very important for a dental assistant to know: dental terminology, instrument names, how to perform daily tasks, how to have an int... ... middle of paper .... .. “Dental Assisting Law and Ethics Exam Study Guide.” Education.com. Learning Express editors. Internet. February 21, 2012. “31-9091 Dental Assistants.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Internet. February 21, 2012. “Dental Assistant Training Programs and Schools.” City information. Internet. February 21, 2012. “Dental Assistant: Job Description and Job Outlook for 2011.” Dental Assistant Career Guide. Internet. February 21, 2012. http://www.dentalassistantguide.org/job-description/."Information on the average salary of a dental assistant as well as employment, professional training and unemployment assistance." Salary.com. Internet. February 21, 2012. http://www1.salary.com/dental-assistant-Salary.html.