The acronym EFDA stands for Expanded Functions Dental Assistant, representing an advanced and specialized role within the dental healthcare team. This title signifies a dental assistant who has completed additional, formal training and certification beyond the requirements of a traditional dental assistant. EFDAs are authorized to perform specific intra-oral procedures that contribute directly to restorative care, increasing efficiency in the dental practice.
What the Acronym EFDA Means
The term “Expanded Functions” refers to the specific set of duties that state dental practice acts permit a specially qualified dental assistant to perform. While a general dental assistant handles tasks like sterilizing equipment and passing instruments, the EFDA designation grants the legal authority to perform certain reversible tasks directly on a patient’s teeth and gums. These expanded functions typically involve procedures that do not require initial diagnosis or the permanent alteration of hard or soft tissue. This allows the supervising dentist to focus on more complex diagnostic and treatment planning activities.
Specific Procedures Performed by an EFDA
The practical duties of an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant focus on procedures that support restorative and preventative dentistry. A primary function is the placement and finishing of direct restorative materials (fillings). After the dentist prepares the tooth, the EFDA places, condenses, carves, and polishes the material to restore the tooth’s shape and function.
Other delegated tasks often include:
- Placing dental sealants, which are protective coatings applied to prevent decay.
- Taking final impressions for indirect restorations (molds used to fabricate crowns, bridges, or dentures).
- Applying topical fluoride treatments.
- Performing coronal polishing (removal of soft plaque and stains).
- Placing and removing matrices and wedges.
- Placing bases and liners in prepared cavities.
- Fabricating and cementing provisional (temporary) crowns.
The specific list of procedures an EFDA can perform varies significantly, as each state’s board of dentistry defines its own scope of practice through specific regulations.
Requirements for Becoming an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
The pathway to becoming an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant requires a structured combination of education, clinical experience, and examination. Most states require candidates to first be a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or have prior experience in general chairside assisting before enrolling in an EFDA program. The specialized training involves a board-approved course that includes both classroom instruction and extensive clinical laboratory practice.
Training and Examination
EFDA training programs focus on advanced topics such as dental anatomy, restorative materials science, and specific procedural techniques. After completing the coursework, candidates must pass a competency examination. This may be a state-specific exam or a national examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
State Regulations and Maintenance
Because requirements are determined by individual state dental boards, prospective EFDAs must research the regulations of the state where they intend to practice. Some states require documentation of a minimum number of clinical hours under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. To maintain the EFDA credential, assistants must periodically renew their certification by completing a specified number of continuing education credits.