Top 10 Questions for Expanded Function Dental Assistant Interview

1. What are the responsibilities and duties of an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)?

As an EFDA, my responsibilities and duties may vary depending on the practice and state regulations. However, some common responsibilities include:

• Assisting the dentist with patient care and treatment, including suctioning, placing and removing dental materials, and handing instruments.
• Performing expanded functions such as taking X-rays, placing and removing temporary restorations, and applying fluoride treatments.
• Chairside assisting, including preparing and setting up the operatory, sterilizing instruments, and maintaining a clean and organized work area.
• Providing patient education and answering questions on oral hygiene, treatment options, and home care instructions.
• Maintaining patient records, including charting and updating medical histories.
• Performing administrative and clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, processing insurance claims, and maintaining office supplies.

2. What are the educational and certification requirements to become an EFDA?

The educational and certification requirements for an EFDA vary by state. Generally, a minimum of an associate’s degree in dental assisting from an accredited program is required. In addition, certification by a recognized organization such as the American Dental Association (ADA) or the National Board for Dental Assistants (NBDA) is typically a requirement for practicing as an EFDA.

Continuing Education

• To maintain certification, ongoing continuing education is usually required.
• Continuing education courses help keep EFDAs up-to-date on the latest dental techniques and best practices.

3. What are the differences between a dental assistant and an EFDA?

A dental assistant performs basic chairside and administrative duties under the supervision of a dentist. An EFDA has received additional training and certification, which allows them to perform a wider range of expanded functions, including:

• Taking X-rays
• Placing and removing temporary restorations
• Applying fluoride treatments
• Taking impressions
• Making bite registrations
• Performing oral hygiene instructions

4. What are the qualities and skills that make a successful EFDA?

• Compassion and a genuine desire to help others
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Proficiency in dental assisting techniques
• Commitment to ongoing professional development

5. Can you describe your experience in taking and developing dental X-rays?

In my previous role as an EFDA, I was responsible for taking and developing dental X-rays. I have experience using both traditional film-based and digital radiography equipment.

• I am proficient in taking various types of X-rays, including bitewings, periapicals, and panoramic views.
• I understand the importance of proper patient positioning and radiation safety.
• I can develop and mount the X-rays for interpretation by the dentist.

6. How do you handle difficult or anxious patients?

When dealing with difficult or anxious patients, I prioritize creating a calm and reassuring environment. I approach the situation with empathy and understanding, and I take the time to listen to their concerns.

• I use clear and simple language to explain the procedures and answer their questions.
• I provide them with breaks during the appointment as needed.
• I offer distractions such as music or a movie to help them relax.
• I collaborate with the dentist to develop a treatment plan that addresses the patient’s anxiety.

7. What are the infection control protocols you follow in the dental setting?

Infection control is of utmost importance in the dental setting. I strictly adhere to the following protocols to prevent the spread of infections:

• Washing my hands thoroughly before and after each patient contact
• Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, mask, and eye protection
• Sterilizing all instruments and equipment before and after each use
• Maintaining a clean and disinfected work area
• Following proper waste disposal procedures
• Staying up-to-date on OSHA and CDC guidelines for infection control

8. Describe your experience in placing and removing temporary restorations.

In my role as an EFDA, I frequently assist the dentist with placing and removing temporary restorations.

• I prepare the tooth by removing any decay or old restorations.
• I select the appropriate temporary restoration material and apply it to the tooth.
• I shape and contour the restoration to match the surrounding teeth.
• I check the occlusion to ensure a proper bite.
• I instruct the patient on how to care for the temporary restoration until their next appointment.
• During the patient’s next visit, I carefully remove the temporary restoration using the appropriate instruments.

9. How do you educate patients on oral hygiene and home care?

Patient education is an important aspect of my role as an EFDA. I am passionate about helping patients understand the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems.

• I use clear and simple language to explain the causes and effects of dental diseases.
• I demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.
• I recommend specific products and techniques for individual patient needs.
• I answer any questions patients may have about oral hygiene and home care.
• I provide written materials and resources to reinforce patient education.

10. What are your career goals as an EFDA?

As an EFDA, I am committed to providing high-quality patient care and contributing to the dental team’s success. My career goals include:

• Expanding my knowledge and skills by pursuing continuing education and advanced training.
• Mentoring and training new dental assistants.
• Participating in research and development projects to advance the field of dentistry.
• Eventually, I would like to pursue a career as a dental hygienist or dentist.

Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDAs) perform a variety of tasks that support the dentist, including providing direct patient care, taking dental impressions, and making dental restorations.

1. Patient Care

EFDAs assist the dentist in providing direct patient care, such as taking vital signs, performing oral hygiene instructions, and assisting with patient exams.

• Taking vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, and respiration
• Performing oral hygiene instructions, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing
• Assisting with patient exams, such as taking X-rays and performing periodontal charting

2. Dental Impressions

EFDAs are responsible for taking dental impressions, which are used to create custom-made dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

• Preparing the patient for the impression
• Selecting and fitting the appropriate impression tray
• Mixing and placing the impression material
• Removing the impression and sending it to the laboratory

3. Dental Restorations

EFDAs may also place and finish dental restorations, such as fillings and crowns. This requires a high level of precision and attention to detail.

• Preparing the tooth for the restoration
• Mixing and placing the restorative material
• Finishing and polishing the restoration

Preparing for an interview can be daunting, but there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you ace your interview for an Expanded Function Dental Assistant position:

1. Research the company and the position

Take some time to learn about the dental practice you are interviewing with. Visit their website, read their reviews, and see if you can find out anything about their culture. This will help you answer questions about the company and show that you are interested in the position.

• Visit the dental practice’s website
• Read reviews of the dental practice
• See if you can find out anything about the dental practice’s culture

2. Practice answering common interview questions

There are a few common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as “Why are you interested in this position?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”. Take some time to practice answering these questions so that you can deliver your responses confidently and clearly.

• Why are you interested in this position?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What is your experience with providing patient care?

3. Be prepared to talk about your experience

The interviewer will want to know about your experience as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant. Be prepared to talk about your skills and abilities, and provide examples of your work. You can also mention any continuing education courses or training that you have completed.

• Talk about your skills and abilities as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant
• Provide examples of your work
• Mention any continuing education courses or training that you have completed

4. Dress professionally and arrive on time

First impressions matter, so it is important to dress professionally and arrive on time for your interview. This shows that you are respectful of the interviewer’s time and that you are serious about the position.

• Dress professionally
• Arrive on time
• Be respectful of the interviewer’s time