Printed on 10/17/2026 Fox Valley Technical College

Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) - Certificate

11-508-1 | | 11 Credits | Not Financial Aid Eligible
Appleton | Part Time

With the Wisconsin Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Certificate, you’ll build on your existing dental assisting knowledge and experience and expand your clinical skills to provide additional patient care under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. Designed with working dental professionals in mind, the program combines online learning, hands-on training and clinical experience to prepare you for expanded functions in the dental office. You’ll develop skills in restorative, preventive and prosthodontic procedures, including placing and finishing restorations, applying sealants, polishing teeth, providing fluoride treatments, taking impressions, placing temporizations, packing cord, removing cement, adjusting dentures, and removing sutures and periodontal dressings. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be prepared to meet the educational requirements for Wisconsin EFDA certification and expand your role as a member of the dental team.

** *The Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Certificate program is designed to meet the requirements for licensure/certification for the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.* **

Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

Estimated Cost
Getting Started
Program Outcomes

Estimated Cost

Costs may not include all books or all materials and supplies. Some textbook costs may be included in the estimated program cost.

$2,400*

Cost based on current tuition and fees

$345

Textbooks

* Tuition and fees are subject to change. For more details, see Cost of Attendance (PDF).

Admissions

EFDA Experience Requirements

The EFDA program is designed for dental professionals with prior chairside dental assisting experience. To be eligible for admission, you must meet one of the following experience pathways:

Pathway 1: At least 1 year (1,000 hours) of chairside dental assisting experience, and a current Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential

OR

Pathway 2: At least 2 years (2,000 hours) of chairside dental assisting experience

As part of the application process, you’ll be required to submit documentation of your eligibility. Depending on your experience pathway, this may include:

- Verification of chairside dental assisting experience using the [Verification of Employment form](https://www.fvtc.edu/EFDAPrerequisite).
- Current CDA credential, if applying through Pathway 1.
- Current CPR/BLS certification by uploading a copy of your certification card.

Additional Information

The EFDA program is offered over one semester, with program starts available in the fall and spring terms. Hands-on lab instruction takes place on Fridays. 

Dental Health Safety and Dental and General Anatomy are prerequisite courses that must be completed before core program classes. After applying, you’ll have the opportunity to indicate how you meet these requirements through transfer credit or available Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) options.

Textbook costs may be reduced by previously completed coursework.

Program Outcomes

Maintain clear field of vision including isolation techniques
Maintain infection and hazard control
Perform preventative procedures
Perform prosthodontic procedures
Perform restorative procedures

Start anywhere. Many credits can apply toward future programs.

College Credit Transfer Options

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

* Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA)

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Email: admissionsspecialist@fvtc.edu
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Text: 920-294-1738

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