Dental assistants play an essential role in helping dental practices provide efficient, high-quality patient care. For those looking to expand their clinical responsibilities, becoming an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) can open the door to new career opportunities.
An EFDA is an advanced certified professional who can provide direct patient care as an extension of the practicing dentist.
Core Duties of an EFDA
An EFDA performs advanced tasks beyond basic chairside support. State laws regulate these exact duties, but licensed EFDAs place and shape filling materials after the dentist removes tooth decay. They condense amalgams and smooth composite resins so the bite feels natural to the patient.
In many practices, these professionals place matrix bands and wedges before placing fillings. They apply protective sealants to shield deep tooth grooves from future cavities. They also take detailed impressions for crowns, perform coronal polishing to clean surface stains, position temporary crowns, and apply topical fluoride. Every procedure takes place under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
Benefits for Dental Practices
The introduction of the EFDA streamlines day-to-day clinical operations. As the EFDA conducts the filling procedure, the dentist has enough time to take care of other patients who need to be diagnosed, to do a root canal procedure, or to treat complicated surgical cases.
Patients enjoy shorter wait times and faster visits. The entire office operates with higher efficiency, allowing the practice to serve more patients each day without sacrificing the quality of patient care. EFDAs also build great rapport with patients, helping nervous individuals feel relaxed throughout their appointments.
Daily Responsibilities on the Job
An EFDA’s days are fast-paced. The day begins by reviewing patient charts and gathering specialized instruments for restorative treatments.
When the patient is brought in, the assistant reviews their medical history, presents the treatment plan, and addresses any preliminary questions.
Once the dentist has completed the surgical part of the procedure, the EFDA will place, contour and complete the restoration. The assistant will then provide the patient with instructions.
Path to Certification
Moving into an EFDA position involves training and practical work. Often, candidates start as a traditional dental assistant to learn about infection control, radiology and patient management.
EFDA coursework then builds on this base, covering dental anatomy, restorative techniques, and hands-on clinical practice. Depending on state regulations, candidates must complete an accredited program and pass a state board or national certification exam to become credentialed in expanded functions.
Earning these credentials opens the door to higher earning potential, greater job stability, and significant career advancement.
Elevating Your Dental Career
Becoming an EFDA is a major career accomplishment. An EFDA career offers the opportunity to build advanced clinical skills while playing a larger role in patient care.
Infuse Dental Assistant School provides hands-on training for aspiring dental assistants, helping students build the knowledge and practical skills needed to begin a rewarding career in dentistry. Contact us at (219) 224-6467 for more information.