What is a key responsibility of an EFDA during a restorative procedure?

In the context of an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) during a restorative procedure, providing effective chairside assistance is essential to ensure the smooth operation of the dental practice. This role involves various tasks, such as preparing the operatory, setting up instruments, managing dental materials, and assisting the dentist with procedures like fillings or crowns. Effective chairside assistance contributes to patient comfort, safety, and overall efficiency, allowing the dentist to focus on the technical aspects of the treatment.

While making decisions about patient treatment, billing, and conducting follow-ups are important activities within a dental practice, they typically fall outside the direct responsibilities of an EFDA during restorative procedures. EFDAs are trained to support the dentist rather than to make independent treatment decisions, manage financial transactions, or initiate follow-up care independently.