This program has been designed as an intensive introduction to the basics of restorative dentistry for the Dental Assistant in the role of an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA). The Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry’s rules and regulations will be presented and reviewed as they pertain to Expanded Functions.
GET THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO SHINE
The essential functions taught in this program include placing and removing rubber dams, carving and finishing of amalgam restorations, coronal polishing, application of fluoride, pit and fissure sealants, and placement and finishing of light-cured composite restorations and crown and bridge temporary restorations. These skills are attained through lecture presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on technical laboratory sessions.
- 216 total hours
- EFDA 101: 96 hours/12 weeks of Didactic (Lecture/Lab at the GACTC)
- EFDA 102: 120 hours of Clinical Practicum at a dental facility
- Students must achieve a minimum of 80% or better in EFDA 101 to progress to EFDA 102.
This program is not an introduction to clinical dental assisting. It is assumed that the student can perform clinical assisting duties (suctioning, retraction, patient communication, infection control, impression taking, knowledge of procedures, manipulation of materials, etc.) with clinical competence and confidence.
It is the responsibility of EFDA certificate students and graduates to ensure their eligibility to take the licensure exam in determination of licensure as an EFDA in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s Act 53 outlines the standards and requirements for individuals that seek licensure for various occupations in PA that require licensure. Information about Act 53 is available at https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dos/resources/professional-licensing-resources/act-53-of-2020-best-practices-guide.html. For individuals that have criminal conviction(s), we highly recommend review of Act 53’s Best Practices Guide (accessible at link above) to determine if the individual’s conviction(s) may prevent them from obtaining a licensure in PA in their intended occupation.
The training is designed to provide the opportunity for the experienced Dental Assistant/Dental Hygienist with the necessary theory and clinical instruction to obtain a temporary EFDA permit and/or to sit for the PA State Board of Dentistry EFDA Certification Exam. This program is approved by the PA State Board of Dentistry.
Of our graduates from the past 5 cohorts, 97% have successfully completed the State of Pennsylvania Expanded Function Dental Assisting Certification.
Prerequisites:
- High school diploma or GED required for admission.
- Dental Assisting National X-ray Certification; a copy of the X-ray certification must be provided with the application.
- Two years experience as a dental assistant in a general dentistry office or licensure as a dental hygienist required to participate in program. Please submit this form with the application to the Continuing Education Office.
How to Enroll:
To apply for the EFDA Certificate program, please complete the online application available here.
Please contact the Continuing Education Office at (814) 941-8324 and adulted@gactc.edu with questions.
“The Expanded Function Dental Assistant Programs are a winner for the students and the community. Students in the program become skilled in infection control,dental radiology and preventive procedures such as sealants. They also learn to place ideal dental restorations. They have an opportunity to use their skills working in a dental office as part of their training. The experience students receive in the EFDA programs prepare them to provide excellent dental care to our community.Both EFDAs in our dental office are graduates of the GACTC program. The quality of care they provide to our patients is exceptional. We are very fortunate to have these programs in our community.”
I have been practicing general dentistry locally for 38 years following my completion of a General Dental Practice Residency Program, from Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. I have had the opportunity to train and work with a number of good dental assistants over the years. The EFDA’s that we have had the opportunity to train, through Ms. Hershey’s program have been excellent. The students we have had in our office, have had a solid base in all aspects of general dentistry. They have been highly motivated, professional and dependable. The guidelines that are to be followed and graded, provide a good clinical basis to develop their skills. The teaching environment at the dental clinic is first class, with some of the newest dental equipment and materials. I have seen this first hand. I have no reservations in recommending these students for any externship as well as future employment.
CERTIFICATIONS
Upon completion of the program, students may take the PA Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification Exam.
COST
$5,300.00 (includes all course materials except items needed for supply kit). A $100.00 nonrefundable fee is due upon acceptance into the program and is applied towards the tuition cost.
The cost of the PA State Licensure exam is not included in the tuition. This program is not eligible for federal and state financial aid (such as Pell grants and federal loans).
For the 2024-2025 academic year, this program is eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding! Contact your local CareerLink to learn more about WIOA funding.
SCHEDULE
Next session class dates:
Our Fall 2024 session is full.
The spring 2025 session is:
February 1,8,22
March 1,8,15,22,29
April 5,12,26
May 3
Class sessions are typically 9 am to 5:30 pm with a half hour for lunch. All class sessions are at the GACTC. Dates and times are subject to change.
Please contact the GACTC Continuing Education Office at (814) 941-8324 and adulted@gactc.edu for more information.
