The Higheset Level of Dental Assistant?
The Higheset Level of Dental Assistant?
In the world of dental healthcare, the career of a dental assistant can be both stable and rewarding. For many, it’s a valuable entry point into the industry. But for those looking to advance and take on greater clinical responsibilities, the ultimate goal is to become an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA)—widely considered the highest level a dental assistant can achieve. With higher pay, more autonomy, and advanced clinical duties, the EFDA is not just a job—it’s a professional distinction.
What Is an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA)?
An EFDA is a dental assistant who has completed additional training and received certification or licensure to perform advanced clinical tasks. These tasks go beyond traditional duties such as sterilizing instruments, taking x-rays, and supporting the dentist during procedures. Instead, EFDAs are empowered to perform specific, hands-on patient care procedures—under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
The EFDA’s role can differ by state, but the overall goal remains the same: to improve patient care and practice efficiency by allowing skilled assistants to perform specific restorative and preventive procedures.
Typical EFDA Responsibilities
Although the scope of practice varies by state, EFDA-level tasks often include:
Placing and finishing composite and amalgam restorations
Taking final impressions for crowns, bridges, and dentures
Performing coronal polishing
Applying dental sealants and fluoride treatments
Placing temporary crowns and bridges
Removing cement from crowns and orthodontic brackets
Placing matrix bands, liners, and bases
Using rubber dams and isolation systems
Assisting in oral surgery or implant placements (in some cases)
These advanced duties lighten the dentist’s load and make the overall treatment process more efficient.
How to Become an EFDA
Reaching EFDA status requires education, training, and certification. While the exact path varies by state, the general steps include:
1. Graduate from a Dental Assisting Program
Start by completing a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs typically last 9–12 months for a certificate or up to 2 years for an associate degree.
→ Find CODA-accredited programs
2. Earn National Certification (CDA)
Many states require you to pass the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). This exam includes three components:
General Chairside Assisting (GC)
Infection Control (ICE)
Radiation Health and Safety (RHS)
→ Learn more about the CDA exam
3. Complete a State-Approved EFDA Program
Enroll in an EFDA training course offered by a dental school or community college. These programs include both classroom and clinical instruction in expanded restorative procedures.
→ View EFDA training by state
4. Obtain State Licensure or Registration
After completing your training, you must apply for licensure through your state’s dental board. Requirements can include:
A passing score on a jurisprudence (dental law) exam
Current CPR certification
Proof of education and experience
→ Access your state’s dental board
5. Maintain Certification
EFDAs often need to renew their license every 1–2 years and complete continuing education (CE) hours to stay current on best practices and state regulations.
Why EFDA Is the Highest Level in Dental Assisting
The EFDA role represents the peak of dental assisting for several reasons:
Clinical Autonomy:
EFDAs perform procedures that require clinical judgment and dexterity, such as placing restorations or finishing prosthodontic work. These tasks were traditionally done only by dentists.
Increased Earning Potential:
EFDAs earn significantly more than standard dental assistants. Nationally, the average dental assistant earns around $48,000, while EFDAs often earn $55,000 to $75,000+ per year depending on their state, experience, and specialization. In high-demand urban areas or in specialty practices like oral surgery or pediatric dentistry, some EFDAs earn over $80,000 annually.
Job Market Demand:
As dental practices aim to improve efficiency, the value of a skilled EFDA who can handle expanded duties has grown. Dentists can see more patients per day when EFDAs can legally and competently perform delegated tasks.
Career Flexibility and Growth:
EFDAs are often promoted to leadership positions such as:
Lead Clinical Assistant
Treatment Coordinator
Office Manager
Dental Assisting Instructor
Some EFDAs also use their experience as a stepping stone to dental hygiene or dental school.
State-by-State Differences
Each state regulates the EFDA role differently. Some states use alternate titles such as:
California: Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF)
Ohio and Missouri: Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA)
Minnesota: Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA)
Texas: Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) with additional expanded function credentials
New York: Does not formally recognize EFDA but allows some expanded functions with proper training
It’s crucial to consult your state’s dental practice act or board for exact legal scope and required credentials.
→ State-by-state dental assisting requirements
Other Advanced Dental Assisting Roles
While EFDA is the most advanced clinical role, other upward pathways for dental assistants include:
Surgical or Orthodontic Dental Assistant: Assists in specialized practices requiring unique skill sets
Dental Office Manager: Oversees staff, scheduling, insurance, and billing operations
Dental Assisting Educator: Teaches in community colleges or private schools
Dental Sales Representative: Leverages clinical knowledge to sell dental equipment and products
These roles may require different types of education, business training, or certifications, but they are viable next steps for experienced professionals.
Conclusion
The Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) is the highest level a dental assistant can achieve without transitioning to hygiene or dentistry. With more responsibility, stronger pay, and greater clinical involvement, the EFDA represents a meaningful advancement in both skill and professional status.
Whether you're just entering the field or looking to take your career to the next level, pursuing the EFDA path can open doors to personal satisfaction, job security, and long-term growth in the dental profession.
If you're searching for more than just a job—a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential—then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Moreover, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!
Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certifications
American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) – Membership and CE
