moefda

The MDA Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) program provides curriculum that includes both online and hands-on clinical learning, as well as a testing component, to train dental assistants in the various expanded functions as defined in Missouri Statutes and Rules.

The MDA offers courses in five categories: restorative I, restorative II, removable prosthodontics, fixed prosthodontics and orthodontics.

The MDA courses require online pre-work in advance of a hands-on clinical session (typically one to two days in length), at which an assistant demonstrates competencies in the allowable expanded functions of the class for which they are taking. The Restorative I course requires the passage of an Anatomy & Morphology Exam at 80% as a prerequisite to attend the hands-on clinical course, and the completion of the Restorative I course is a prerequisite to register for the Restorative II course.

Missouri rule states that to be eligible to take Expanded Function courses, assistants must have proof of certification as a Certified Dental Assistant or a Certified Orthodontics Assistant, or proof of passing the Missouri Test of Basic Dental Assisting Skills.

Once the dental assistant has passed the specific EFDA educational program and received a certificate attesting to competencies, they may apply for a Missouri Dental Board-issued permit to perform those expanded functions, under the direct supervision of a dentist. Each of the five courses requires its own education component and application for permit.

For any questions about the MDA EFDA Program, contact Mandy Lewis.