What is the primary role of an expanded function dental assistant?

The primary role of an expanded function dental assistant is to perform specific procedures under the supervision of a dentist. This designation allows dental assistants to take on more advanced responsibilities beyond basic tasks. They are trained and certified to carry out functions such as placing and finishing dental restorations, applying sealants, and assisting with more complex procedures. This expanded skill set enables them to play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and improving the efficiency of dental practice operations.

In contrast, managing patient records and appointments is typically the role of administrative staff, while marketing responsibilities are usually handled by a separate marketing team or coordinator. Assisting with research and development is not a standard duty for dental assistants and generally falls into the realm of dental professionals directly involved in academic or clinical research.