Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

DescriptionThe Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) is a highly trained dental professional who provides preventive and restorative dental services under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. This role enhances clinic efficiency, improves patient access to care, and supports high-quality clinical outcomes by performing authorized expanded dental functions, assisting with chairside procedures, supporting clinic operations, and ensuring compliance with regulatory, safety, and infection control standards.Patient Care and Operational ExcellenceEstimated Effort: 70%Ensure patients receive compassionate, high-quality dental care and a positive patient experience.Work collaboratively with dental providers, patient access staff, and clinic team members to coordinate patient flow and care delivery.Collect and document pertinent patient health information and vital signs.Perform expanded dental functions as permitted by the Ohio State Dental Board, under direct supervision of a licensed dentist, including:Basic remedial intra-oral proceduresAdvanced remedial intra-oral proceduresPreventive and restorative material placement, including pit and fissure sealantsAmalgam and non-metallic restorative materialsDirect bonded restorative materialsAssist the dentist chairside by organizing and preparing instruments and supporting four-handed dentistry.Ensure all patient care activities comply with VVHC clinical policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.Document completed dental services in the patient record and record next-visit instructions.Maintain required productivity standards as outlined in the employment agreement.Prepare, maintain, and manage dental materials, supplies, and instruments, including proper disinfection and sterilization in compliance with CDC and clinical policies.Clean, disinfect, and maintain dental clinic equipment and workspaces in compliance with OSHA, CDC, and clinic regulations, including operatories, sterilization areas, and laboratory spaces.Maintain proper operation of dental equipment including sterilizers, ultrasonic cleaners, water distillers, radiographic equipment, and amalgam separators.Monitor and maintain dental supply inventory, including stocking operatories and submitting supply orders.Educate patients on post-operative care and oral health instructions.Complete post-visit responsibilities and follow-up as required. Administrative and Clerical SupportEstimated Effort: 20%Participate in daily clinic huddles and team communication activities.Evaluate EFDA schedules and collaborate with Patient Access staff to ensure appointments are filled and clinic capacity is optimized.Complete patient referrals, both internal and external, as needed.Assist with telephone triage, including distinguishing between true dental emergencies and routine care needs.Maintain the physical condition of the dental clinic, instruments, and equipment.Prepare treatment plans and cost estimates and review them with patients when needed.Prepare and confirm outgoing dental lab work and communicate follow-up needs to patients.Provide oversight, leadership, and mentorship to new or lower-level dental assistants, modeling efficiency and best practices in patient workflow.Act as clinic lead and oversee daily operations when the Director of Dental Operations is unavailable.Maintain strict patient confidentiality at all times.Service and Other ResponsibilitiesEstimated Effort: 10%Participate in agency committees, work groups, and service teams as assigned.Demonstrate commitment to CAC's mission by promoting access to high-quality oral health services.Perform other duties as assigned to support clinic operations and patient care.Minimum RequirementsEducation:High School Diploma or equivalentCompletion of an Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) program accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and SchoolsJob-Related Experience:Preference given to individuals with prior dental experience and/or experience in an FQHC dental programPrior experience with electronic dental health records and digital radiography preferred Licenses, Certifications, and Accreditations:Current, active registration as an Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary with the Ohio State Dental BoardCurrent, active Dental Assistant Radiographer's Certificate through the Ohio State Dental BoardCurrent certification as a dental assistant through DANB or as a Certified Ohio Dental Assistant (CODA)Current Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen (N2O-O2) minimal sedation monitoring certificationCompletion of a state-approved course in identification and prevention of potential medical emergenciesCurrent Healthcare Provider CPR and AED certification through the American Heart Association Direct Patient Care RequirementsVerification of licensure, registration, and certificationVerification of education and trainingOffice of Inspector General (OIG) query clearanceHealth/Fit-for-Duty verification, including physical and mental health statusThree professional letters of recommendationCurrent BLS/CPR certificationProof of Hepatitis B immunity or documented declination Preferred QualificationsCompletion of a dental sealant placement course with certification from the Ohio State Dental BoardCurrent coronal polishing certification through the Ohio State Dental Board Working Conditions