Provides advanced chairside assistance and performs EF2-level clinical duties such as placing restorations and taking final impressions. Ensures patient safety, maintains sterile environments, and educates patients on oral hygiene and post-operative care.
Requirements summary
Requires active RDA licensure with EF2 certification from the Dental Board of California and a valid Radiographic Certification. Candidates should have at least one year of recent RDA experience and current BLS certification.
Description The Registered Dental Assistant – EF2 supports dentists in delivering high-quality dental care, with advanced capabilities that extend beyond the standard RDA scope.
The RDA EF2 is licensed to perform expanded functions as permitted by the Dental Board of California, including, but not limited to, placing restorations, taking final impressions, and performing other EF2-level procedures under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
Primary responsibilities include chairside assistance during dental procedures, executing EF2-level clinical duties, ensuring optimal patient care and safety, and maintaining a clean, sterile, and efficient clinical environment.
The following statements for this position reflect only some specific responsibilities and are considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job as identified and shall not be considered a detailed description of all duties required that may be inherent in the position: Assist the dentist in performing a wide range of procedures, including prophylaxis, restorative dentistry, endodontic treatments (e.g., root canals, pulpotomies, pulpectomies, apexification), fixed and removable prosthodontics, space maintainers, and extraction.
Independently perform EF2-licensed expanded functions under the direct supervision of a dentist, such as placing and contouring final restorations, taking final impressions, and performing other legally authorized EF2 procedures.
Prepare patients for treatment by seating them, reviewing health history, explaining upcoming procedures, and ensuring their physical and emotional comfort throughout their visit.
Anticipate the needs of the dentist during procedures by efficiently passing instruments, materials, and suctioning, maintaining clear visibility and assisting with retraction when needed.
Take diagnostic dental radiographs in accordance with safety and regulatory protocols, ensuring proper technique and patient protection at all times.
Apply topical anesthetics, desensitizing agents, and other prescribed treatments under the supervision of the dentist.
Place pit and fissure sealants and perform coronal polishing as licensed and directed.
Fabricate and place temporary crowns, bridges, and provisional restorations; take preliminary and final impressions as required.
Provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions to patients and their caregivers, ensuring clarity and understanding of follow-up care.
Educate patients and families on proper oral hygiene techniques, dietary habits, and preventive care strategies to support long-term oral health.
Conduct post-treatment follow-ups, particularly after complex procedures, to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Deliver compassionate patient care, especially when working with children, anxious individuals, or patients with special needs, providing reassurance and support.
Rigorously follow sterilization and infection control protocols in compliance with OSHA, CDC, and clinic-specific guidelines to maintain a safe, clean, and hygienic clinical environment.
Set up and break down treatment rooms between patients, ensuring all necessary instruments, supplies, and equipment are available, sterilized, and properly organized.
Accurately chart and document procedures, materials used, and clinical observations in patient records as directed by the dentist.
Support front-office operations as needed, including patient scheduling, appointment reminders, and coordination of follow-up visits.
Monitor inventory levels and report supply shortages to the Dental Clinic Supervisor or Manager in a timely manner.
Maintain strict compliance with all HIPAA, OSHA, Dental Board, and other regulatory requirements relevant to clinical practice and patient confidentiality.
Work collaboratively with the dental team—dentists, hygienists, and fellow assistants—to ensure efficient workflow and high-quality patient care.
Actively participate in team meetings, training sessions, and quality improvement efforts, contributing to a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Remain in good standing with all licensure and continuing education requirements, including maintaining current RDA EF2 certification.
Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as required to support the clinic's operational and strategic goals as well as any other duties as assigned by Dental Clinic Manager.
Adhere to HIPAA regulations and other relevant laws to protect patient privacy and confidentiality in all communications.
Perform other duties as assigned by the executive leadership and administration.
Requirements
Education, Certification, and Experience Requirements Current and active licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant with EF2 certification issued by the Dental Board of California (Required) Minimum of one (1) year of recent experience working as an RDA, with preference for candidates with EF2 experience in a clinical setting Valid California Radiographic (X-ray) Certification Certification in Sealant Placement (in accordance with Dental Board regulations) Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification Strong knowledge of dental procedures, expanded function protocols, and clinical terminology Proven ability to deliver high-quality patient care with excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills Detail-oriented with proficiency in taking diagnostic dental radiographs, fabricating temporary restorations, and other EF2-level functions
