Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Dental assistant training can open the door to a new career path in the healthcare industry. If you want a career that allows you to assist with patient dental care as well as administrative tasks, a Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions program is worth considering.

What is a Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions?

A dental assistant with expanded functions provides support to dentists and hygienists. They typically sterilize equipment to help ensure that diseases do not transmit from patient to patient via dental instruments. They may also set up equipment trays so a dentist or hygienist has everything they need for examinations and procedures. The expanded functions aspect of the dental assistant role may include coronal polishing, sealant placement, and the removal and fabrication of temporary crowns. Dental assistants with an education in expanded functions should possess skills in:

• Communication
• Working in a clinical setting
• Administrative office work
• Medical billing and coding

Why Choose Dental Assistant Training with Expanded Functions?

Expanded functions training teaches you additional skills to help in a dental office. Expanded functions training is also required in the state of Florida to work as a dental assistant. So it’s a good idea to attend a dental assistant program that includes this additional training.

The more you know about your potential career field and industry, the more equipped you can be to pursue employment after graduation. Consideration for any entry-level position usually depends on your work experience and education level. There are two main ways to gain experience at a dental practice: find an entry-level clerical job and perform well or participate in a school-sponsored clinical externship at a working dental practice.

That’s why dental assistant education typically includes a clinical externship that requires on-the-job experience. This opportunity offers hands-on training and can also provide you with valuable networking opportunities.

Education is something that you control. You can choose an educational program that not only adds a diploma or degree to your resume but also clinical externship experience.