Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
Job Title: Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
Department/Location: Operations
Reports to: Dental Practice Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Company Overview
ProSmile is one of the fastest-growing dental organizations, with a vast network of multi-specialty practices across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Washington D.C., and Maryland. Our practices are led by top-tier dentists who are committed to providing exceptional patient care while offering a supportive environment for dental professionals to thrive. We focus on delivering personalized, gentle care to our patients and creating a collaborative workplace with opportunities for mentorship, growth, and ongoing training.
Position Summary
An Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) is a highly trained and skilled dental professional who assists dentists in providing advanced chairside support and performing additional clinical duties to enhance the efficiency and quality of dental care delivery. EFDA's have received specialized education and certification to perform expanded functions beyond the scope of traditional dental assisting, under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
Duties and Responsibilities
The duties include, but are not limited to:
Patient Care and Chairside Assistance- Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for dental procedures, ensuring a clean, organized, and sterile environment.
- Assist the dentist during dental procedures, including operative, restorative, endodontic, periodontic, and oral surgery procedures, by providing chairside support and anticipating the dentist’s needs.
- Comfort and reassure patients before, during and after dental treatment, addressing their questions, concerns, and apprehensions to promote a positive dental experience.
- Perform expanded functions authorized by state regulations and within the scope of EFDA training and certification, such as placing and contouring dental restorations (e.g., amalgam, composite fillings), placing and removing temporary crowns, and taking preliminary impressions.
- Assist with the placement and removal of periodontal dressings, dental dams, and other dental appliances as directed by the dentist.
- Administer local anesthesia, fluoride treatments, and other topical agents as allowed by state laws and dentist supervision.
- Take dental radiographs (X-rays) as directed by the dentist, following prescribed techniques and safety protocols to produce high-quality images for diagnostic purposes.
- Process and mount dental X-rays, maintain radiographic records, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for radiation safety and protection.
- Perform sterilization and disinfection procedures for dental instruments, equipment, and operatory surfaces according to established infection control protocols and regulatory standards.
- Monitor sterilization equipment, maintain sterilization logs, and perform biological and chemical monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of sterilization processes.
- Provide oral hygiene instructions, dietary counseling, and preventative care recommendations to patients to promote optimal oral health and prevent dental diseases.
- Demonstrate proper tooth brushing, flossing, and other oral hygiene techniques, using educational materials and visual aids to reinforce patient understanding and compliance.
- Assist with patient scheduling, appointment reminders, and billing procedures as needed, using dental practice management software to maintain accurate patient records and financial transactions.
- Complete clinical charting, treatment documentation, and procedural notes accurately and promptly, in compliance with legal and professional standards.
Qualifications
- Completion of an accredited dental assisting program and attainment of state licensure or certification as a dental assistant
- Additional training and certification as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) through an accredited program or continuing education courses.
- Knowledge of dental assisting techniques and infection control practices.
- Proficiency in dental radiography techniques and certification in dental radiography as required by state regulations.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other members of the dental team.
- Attention to detail, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and privacy.
- Adherence to ethical standards, state regulations, and guidelines established by the American Dental Association (ADA) and other relevant professional organizations.
- Certified Dental Assistant preferred.
- 1+ years work experience as a Dental Assistant preferred.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- X-ray License required
- Active CPR Certification is required