Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

Short-Term Certificate

Overview

This certificate program trains certified dental assistants in the art of restorative dentistry. Graduates are eligible to sit for the EFDA exam through the Commission on Dental Testing. EFDAs perform advanced remediable intra-oral dental procedures (sealants and fillings) under the supervision of a licensed dentist.

Location, Class Days/Times

ctec logoThe EFDA certificate is offered through a partnership with Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County (CTEC). Students enroll at COTC and take classes at CTEC’s campus:

150 Price Road
Newark, Ohio 43055

Classes will take place once a week at CTEC on Mondays from 3-7 p.m. Please note, the days/time may be subject to change.

Cost – Financial Assistance

Costs associated with the EFDA Certificate are a combination of tuition and a first semester course fee of $842, which covers supplies and the course textbook. 

Many students work for an employer with tuition benefits that can be used to cover or assist with costs to complete the EFDA Certificate. Incoming students are encouraged to connect with their employer to see what financial assistance may be available to them.

Enrollment Requirements

The EFDA program is a competitive, selective program. There are enrollment requirements in addition to the COTC admission application. Students must submit an EFDA program application and supporting material to be considered for admission to the program.

The deadline to apply is June 15.

Apply to COTC.

Complete the online application for general admission.

Attend a mandatory EFDA Information Meeting. 

Learn about the EFDA program and application requirements at an information meeting.

Register

Complete the EFDA Selection Exam.

Schedule your EFDA selection exam on RegisterBlast.

Complete EFDA program application and submit required documents.

Submit your EFDA program application by June 15. Applications will be available May 15 and can be obtained by contacting cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu.

Required documents:

  1. Certified dental assistant (CDA) or a registered dental assistant (RDA)
  2. Employer Reference Form 
    Documentation must be received for at least two years of chairside experience in a dental office. If you have been employed at multiple practices within two years, submit verification for each dental office.
  3. CPR Certification
    If you are not certified, you must complete EMS-100 Basic Life Support (CPR) before the application deadline.

All documentation should be submitted to COTC Student Records.

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Talent Ready Grant

The Talent Ready Grant is offered through a partnership with the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) to support students who have financial need, are enrolled in a short-term certificate that may be completed in less than one year (less than 30 credit hours), and leads to a certification or a workforce credential in an in-demand job or career. The grant is intended to assist in covering the cost of tuition and fees (up to $2000) and is a limited fund that will be awarded until funds are exhausted. 

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Learning Outcomes

  • Perform the appropriate steps for placing amalgam and composite restorations of all classifications, as well as finishing and polishing restorations.
  • Perform the appropriate steps for placing bases, liners and other pulp protective materials under restorations.
  • Comply with ethical standards expected of a dental health professional.
  • Comply with the rules and laws in accordance with the Ohio State Dental Board practice act pertaining to permissible tasks legally delegated to EFDAs in the delivery of restorative dental care.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can I complete the EFDA certificate?

The EFDA certificate is two semesters long. Students take one course in autumn semester and one course in spring semester to complete the certificate.

Can I take classes online or face-to-face?

Students are required to take classes in person. All classes are located at CTEC:

150 Price Road
Newark OH 43055 

Where can I find a list of classes (plan of study) for the program I want to study?

The courses students need to take to complete a certificate or degree are listed in a plan of study. 

What type of financial assistance is available? 

The EFDA certificate is eligible for the Talent Ready Grant available to support students who have financial need, are enrolled in a short-term certificate that may be completed in less than one year (less than 30 credit hours), and leads to a certification or a workforce credential in an in-demand job or career. The grant is intended to assist in covering the cost of tuition and fees (up to $2000) and is a limited fund that will be awarded until funds are exhausted.

Learn more and apply for the Talent Ready Grant

The Foster Youth Grant is offered through a partnership with the Ohio Department of Education (ODHE) to support students enrolled in a short-term certificate program with demonstrated financial need.  This grant was designate to assist students in the Foster Care System or who have recently exited the system as well as students who at any time were in a kinship relationship.  Each student may receive a one-time grant of up to $2,000 to assist with tuition and fees (does not include the cost of books and supplies).

Learn more and apply for the Foster Youth Grant 

Connect with the Office of Student Financial Services at 740.366.9435 or email NWK-studentfinancialservices@mail.cotc.edu.

How many students are selected into the program?

We currently accept 12 students into the program each academic year.

How do I get started at COTC?

Follow the COTC Steps to Enroll to get started. Contact the admissions office at 740.366.9222 or cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu for assistance.