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Expanded Function Dental Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Dental Assistant - PRN

Portage, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Summary/Objective The Dental Assistant is responsible for assisting the dentist(s) and dental ... Performs expanded function duties as necessary. * Prepares reports and other documentation as ...

Dental Assistant - PRN

Portage, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Summary/Objective The Dental Assistant is responsible for assisting the dentist(s) and dental ... Performs expanded function duties as necessary. * Prepares reports and other documentation as ...

... expanding and offering up to $3000 as a sign-on bonus for a motivated Dental Assistant ... Supportive Team Culture and On-the-Job Training We value a strong work ethic and friendly patient ...

We are expanding our team and seeking a Lead Dental Assistant to guide our dental assistant team and contribute to our welcoming, patient-focused environment. The ideal candidate is passionate about ...

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Expanded Function Dental Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$23

$31

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for expanded function dental assistant in Chicago, IL is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 and improve clinic efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Expanded Function Dental Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Expanded Function Dental Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Expanded Function Dental Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,944 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Expanded Function Dental Assistant

Smile Brands

Portage, IN • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Smile Brands rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

606th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Here at Midwest Dental we understand the demands of dentistry and the day to day demands that come with treating patients all day long, so we provide an excellent support system, training, and teamwork to make work more enjoyable. We are proud of exceptional teamwork and unite to work fairly and productively to get the job done.
In this Dental Assistant opportunity, you will support the dental team in delivering high-quality patient care by assisting during dental procedures, preparing instruments, and maintaining a clean, organized work environment. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, a caring and professional demeanor, ability to start within a month and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Schedule (days/hours)
M-Th 9am-5:30pm
Responsibilities
  • Assist the dentist during dental procedures, including surgeries, fillings, cleanings, and other treatments.
  • Prepare and sterilize dental instruments and equipment before, during, and after patient treatment.
  • Take digital dental X-rays accurately using dexis software.
  • Prepare materials for dental procedures (e.g., fillings, impressions, crowns).
  • Provide chairside assistance, ensuring patients are comfortable and informed.
  • Record and update patient medical histories and treatment plans in the dental software.
  • Manage dental instruments and tools, passing them to the dentist as needed during procedures.
  • Educate patients on post-treatment care and oral hygiene.

Qualifications
  • Indiana Xray license and EFDA required
  • Current CPR/BLS certification (or willing to obtain upon hire)
  • Knowledge of dental terminology, infection control protocols, and OSHA/HIPAA standards
  • Strong communication and commitment to excellent patient care

Compensation
$25 - $27
About Us
Benefits are determined by employment status/hours worked and include paid time off ("PTO"), health, dental, vision, health savings account, telemedicine, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability insurance, employee discount programs, pet insurance, and a 401k plan.
Smile Brands supports over 650 affiliated dental practices across 28 states all focused on a single mission of delivering Smiles For Everyone!® Smiles for patients, providers, employees, and community partners. Everyone. Our growing portfolio of affiliated dental brands and practice models range from large regional brands to uniquely branded local practices. This role is associated with the affiliated dental office listed at the top of the job posting on our career site.
Smile Brands Inc. and all Affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive workplace for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, creed, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical condition), protected hair style and texture (The CROWN Act), genetic information, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. If you would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at careers@smilebrands.com

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