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Expanded Function Dental Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

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$13

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$28

How much do expanded function dental assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for expanded function dental assistant in Tennessee is $20.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an expanded function dental assistant typically collaborate with dentists and hygienists during patient care?

As an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA), you'll work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to deliver comprehensive patient care. EFDAs are trusted to perform advanced procedures, such as placing fillings, taking impressions, and polishing teeth, often while the dentist focuses on more complex treatments. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll coordinate patient flow, share updates, and ensure a smooth, efficient workflow within the practice. This collaborative environment allows EFDAs to take on significant responsibility and contribute directly to patient outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an expanded function dental assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Expanded Function Dental Assistant, you need a dental assisting diploma, EFDA certification, and expertise in chairside assisting, restorative procedures, and infection control. Familiarity with dental radiography, digital charting software, and dental instruments is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to provide reassuring patient care are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities ensure efficient dental operations, high-quality patient outcomes, and compliance with safety standards in a clinical setting.

What is an expanded function dental assistant?

An expanded function dental assistant (EFDA) performs duties beyond what many consider “traditional,” and each state defines what these duties are. Some include room turnover, taking x-rays, doing coronal polishing, taking impressions, and placing temporary restorations. You can also apply sealants, fluorides, and topical anesthesia. Some states include responsibilities such as repairing or removing prosthetics, final cementation of crowns and bridges, and more. You sterilize/prepare tools and other equipment for the dentist, schedule appointments on occasion, and complete other administrative tasks. It is essential to stay updated on your state’s laws for what it considers an expanded function and a regular function.

What are expanded function dental assistant skills?

Expanded function dental assistants (EFDA) have additional skills beyond basic assisting, such as placing dental restorations, taking impressions, and applying sealants or fluoride treatments. These skills require specific training and certification, allowing EFDAs to perform procedures under the supervision of a dentist, which can improve efficiency in dental practices.

What is the difference between Expanded Function Dental Assistant vs Dental Assistant?

AspectExpanded Function Dental AssistantDental Assistant
CertificationsRequires additional certifications for expanded dutiesBasic dental assisting certification
Work EnvironmentPerforms advanced procedures under supervisionAssists with routine patient care and procedures
Employer UsageUsed in practices with expanded scope of practiceCommon in most dental practices

Expanded Function Dental Assistants have additional certifications allowing them to perform more complex procedures compared to standard Dental Assistants. They work in similar environments but take on expanded roles, often in practices that require advanced assistance. Standard Dental Assistants focus on routine tasks and patient support. The key difference lies in the scope of practice and certifications, making the Expanded Function Dental Assistant role more specialized.

More about Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Tennessee? For Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Expanded Function Dental Assistant job openings:
Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Expanded Function Dental Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,655 per year, or $21 per hour.

RDA/Expanded Function Dental Assistant

Accent Smile Center

Nashville, TN • On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:
We’re a privately owned dental office that has two locations one in Belle Meade, Tennessee and one in Dickson Tennessee. We truly value our team and the relationships we build with our patients. Our days are busy, but we keep things positive, supportive, and patient-focused. We believe in helping each other out, showing up with a good attitude, and creating an environment where both our patients and our team feel comfortable and cared for.
Who We’re Looking For:
We’re looking for a Registered Dental Assistant or Expanded Function Dental Assistant who is dependable, kind, and takes pride in what they do. Someone who stays calm in a fast-paced environment, connects well with patients, and enjoys being part of a team that works hard but also supports each other.
EFDA certification is a plus but not required—we’re happy to train the right person who’s motivated and eager to grow.
What You’ll Do:
  • Assist the doctor chairside and help keep procedures running smoothly.
  • Help patients feel at ease by being attentive, gentle, and reassuring.
  • Take X-rays and keep accurate patient records.
  • Prepare and break down operatories, maintaining a clean and organized space.
  • Sterilize instruments and follow proper infection control protocols.
  • Educate patients on oral hygiene and post-op care in a way that feels natural and helpful.
  • Keep the day flowing by staying organized and working closely with the team.
  • (If EFDA-certified) perform expanded duties as allowed.

What Matters to Us:
  • A positive attitude and strong work ethic.
  • Being a team player—no job is “not my job” here.
  • Reliability and consistency.
  • Genuine care for patients and their experience.
  • Willingness to learn and grow.

Qualifications:
  • Current Registered Dental Assistant certification.
  • Radiology certification (is required).
  • Dental assisting experience preferred, but personality and attitude matter just as much.
  • EFDA certification preferred, not required.

Why You’ll Love It Here:
  • Supportive, team-first environment.
  • Patients who feel like family.
  • Doctor's and a team who appreciate hard work.
  • Opportunities to grow and learn.
  • Competitive pay based on experience.
  • We are changing lives using technology and education while creating relationships and smiles.

Please check out our socials to get a better look into what our team is all about.
Dentists Metro Nashville, TN | Accent Smile Center | Accent Smile Center
Accent Smile Center | Dickson TN | Facebook
ASC (@accentsmilecenter) | TikTok