Imagine being part of a dynamic team that not only assists dentists but also actively contributes to the creation of beautiful, healthy smiles.

In this article, we are going to tell you about those important members of the dental industry who have unique skills and expertise at the forefront of modern dentistry.

But remember, this isn’t a typical 9-to-5 job. In the world of Expanded Function Dental Assisting, every day is an adventure.

So, are you ready to explore the ins and outs of this exciting profession?

Get ready to discover how Expanded Function Dental Assistants are transforming the dental world.

Know more about:
What is a Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Skills
Dental Assistant Duties

young female expanded dental assistant.

What is an Expanded Function Dental Assistant?

An Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) is a dental assistant who performs various expanded functions.

When we talk about expanded functions, what does it mean?

Some examples of expanded functions include applying sealants, taking impressions, performing coronal polishing, applying topical anesthetic, or applying topical fluoride.

However, these expanded functions may vary according to the states.

Want to know more about:
Where can a Dental Assistant work
Dental Assistant Salary
Dental Assistant Job Description

Expanded Function Dental Assistant Salary

Now let’s talk about how much money Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) can make. The amount they earn can vary based on where they work, how much experience they have, and the type of dental office they’re in.

On average, EFDAs in the United States usually earn between $35,000 and $60,000 every year. This is a good salary to live a better life.

Sometimes, if EFDAs have been working for a long time and have extra certifications, they can make even more money.

expanded function dental assistant working

Expanded Function Dental Assistant Duties

Now, let’s discuss about various duties and responsibilities of an Expanded Function Dental Assistant in detail.

Read more: Day in the Life of a Dental Assistant
Orthodontic Dental Assistant

An EFDA does important jobs in a dentist’s office.

Their duties involve:

Direct Patient Care: EFDAs greet the patients as they are the first point of contact for patients within a dental office. They help patients by answering their questions and assisting them during dental treatment for their problems.

Place fillings: An Expanded Function Dental Assistant performs important tasks. First, they help the dentist place fillings in your tooth after the dentist gets it ready.

They also check if your teeth come together correctly and if you can floss between them. Then, the dentist makes sure everything is perfect before you leave.

Perform Polishing: Second, they can make your teeth super clean and shiny, just like when you get your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist. They do this after removing harmful deposits on your teeth, which is called scaling.

Apply fluoride treatments: Third, they can put a special coating on your teeth to make them stronger and avoid tooth decay.

Place tooth sealants: They can put a protective layer on your back teeth to keep them safe from getting damaged.

Educating Patients: EFDAs often educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups and home care.

Sterilization and Infection Control: Lastly, maintaining a clean and sterile dental environment is very important and is ensured by an Expanded Function Dental Assistant.

Conclusion

To sum it up, an Expanded Function Dental Assistant is really an important part of the dental team. Being an EFDA can give you a good job with good pay, a chance to make people’s lives better, and a promising future in dentistry.

If you like helping others and want a job that makes you feel good, think about becoming an Expanded Function Dental Assistant!

Additional Sources:
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Chairside Dental Assistant
Dental Assistant Qualifications
Can a Dental Assistant Become a Dentist?
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How much is dental assistant school
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Registered Dental Assistant
Is Dental Assistant School Hard?
Is Dental Assistant a Good Job?
Dental Assistant Instrument Names
Dental Assistant Internship & Externship
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Dental Assistant Certification
Dental Assistant License Guide
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