Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

The Columbia Basin College (CBC) Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) program is a two-quarter program that provides dental assistants with the knowledge and skills required to perform expanded functions under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in the dental field and to provide a pathway for career advancement.

The EFDA program includes a combination of classroom lectures, laboratory exercises, and clinical experiences. Students learn the theory and practice of dental care, including dental anatomy, oral pathology, pharmacology, dental materials, and infection control. They also receive specialized training in expanded functions procedures, such as placing and contouring restorative materials, taking final impressions, placing and removing temporary restorations, and placing and removing rubber dams.

In addition to technical skills, the EFDA program emphasizes communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Students learn to work effectively as members of the oral healthcare team, including dentists, hygienists, and other support staff. They also learn to communicate effectively with patients, including active listening, clear and concise language, and appropriate use of nonverbal communication.

The EFDA program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that includes not only technical skills but also professionalism, ethics, and community service. Students learn the importance of ethical and professional behavior, as well as their responsibility to the community. They are encouraged to participate in community service and outreach programs, and to appreciate the scientific method, self-assessment, and lifelong learning for continual professional growth and development.

Upon completion of the EFDA program, graduates are eligible to take the Washington State Restorative (WARE) written examination provided by Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and the restorative clinical examination provided by Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or by Central Regional Dental Testing (CRDTS). Graduates may find employment in a variety of dental settings, including private practices, community clinics, and hospital dental departments.

Students must apply to the EFDA program and meet specific entrance criteria, including vaccination, background check, and CPR certification requirements.

Additionally, applicants must hold a current and unencumbered dental assistant registration in WA State.

Accreditation

The CBC Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary program is currently in process of obtaining accreditation through the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

Information Sessions

Information Sessions are offered throughout the year to give you an opportunity to meet with Dental Assisting faculty and receive information regarding required prerequisites, the application process, and progression through the curriculum.

Information sessions are scheduled for one hour and open to anyone interested in the Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary program.

Upcoming Information Sessions:

January 19, 2024 - via zoom - please check the CBC Calendar of Events to register for the zoom session.

February 23, 2024 - in person session will be held at the Health Science Center on the Richland campus.

 

 

Program Costs

The Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary program at CBC is approximately $12,000 for tuition, books, uniforms, supplies and equipment during the two-quarter program. These figures are estimates and are subject to change. 

Upon graduation, students must take and pass the Washington State Restorative (WARE) written examination provided by Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and the restorative clinical examination provided by either the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or Central Regional Dental Testing (CRDTS). These costs are in addition to the quoted cost of the program and are the responsibility of the student. Successful completion of these exams are required for licensure.

Additional Resources

Additional information on post program testing, pathways, fees, and licensure can be found by visiting the Dental Assisting National Board and/or Washington State Department of Health websites. 

Application Process

The next opportunity to apply to the EFDA program will be in July or August 2024.  Classes for the next program will start Winter quarter 2025.

Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered dental assistant registration in WA State.  A copy of your dental assistant registration must be included with the application when available.

Part of the application will be to complete a sponsoring dentist attestation. The attestation is to ensure that the applicant will have the ability to complete the required apprenticeship hours for the program.




 

Background Search & Drug Screen Requirements

As part of the admission requirements for Health Science programs, applicants must successfully pass a criminal background check and drug screen prior to working with patients in clinical areas. The background check and drug screen are paid by the student and administered through a third party company, CastleBranch. In addition to the background check required by CBC, each clinical facility reserves the right to conduct its own criminal background check prior to allowing a student to enter its health care facilities for clinical participation.

Certain criminal convictions, pending charges or negative actions may automatically disqualify a person from having unsupervised access to vulnerable adults, juveniles and children. Clinical facilities reserve the right to accept or decline a student’s placement in its facility.

Program Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in performing expanded functions under the appropriate supervision of a licensed dentist, including placing and contouring restorative materials, taking final impressions for indirect restorations, placing and removing temporary restorations, and placing and removing rubber dams.

  2. Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve common challenges that arise during expanded functions procedures.

  3. Employ appropriate infection control and safety procedures in the dental office, including sterilization and disinfection protocols, use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to OSHA regulations.

  4. Communicate effectively with patients and other members of the oral healthcare team, including active listening, clear and concise language, and appropriate use of nonverbal communication.

  5. Recognize and respond to medical emergencies that may occur in the dental office, including basic life support techniques and emergency medications.

  6. Understand the legal and ethical considerations related to dental practice, including HIPAA regulations, patient confidentiality, and informed consent.

  7. Appreciate the importance of cultural competence and diversity in dental care, including recognizing and responding to the unique needs and preferences of diverse patient populations.

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