EFDA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield EFDA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the most important competency assessed in Disease Pathology & Management for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
2. Which characteristic distinguishes a Type III gold alloy from a Type IV? → Type IV has higher hardness for crowns/bridges
3. What is the ALARA principle in dental radiography? → As Low As Reasonably Achievable
4. Which of the following is an essential component of clinical documentation in Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification? → Objective observations, interventions performed, and patient responses
5. What common challenge do professionals face when applying Treatment Protocols & Interventions principles? → Balancing theoretical best practices with practical constraints and real-world conditions
6. In the context of Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification, what does "standard of care" refer to? → The level of care a reasonably competent professional would provide
7. What is the most important competency assessed in Care Coordination & Case Management for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
8. What does a rapid palatal expander (RPE) accomplish in orthodontic treatment? → It widens the maxillary arch by gradually separating the midpalatal suture
9. What is the recommended approach to communication with stakeholders in Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification? → Tailor the message to the audience while maintaining accuracy and transparency
10. In Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification, what is the MOST important element of strategic planning? → Aligning organizational goals with available resources and stakeholder needs
11. Which instrument is specifically designed to place and tuck the ends of metal orthodontic ligature ties beneath the arch wire? → Ligature director
12. In the context of Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification, what does "standard of care" refer to? → The level of care a reasonably competent professional would provide
13. How does emergency procedures & response contribute to overall success in Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification? → It provides a structured framework for achieving consistent, quality outcomes
14. What is a root cause analysis used for? → To identify the underlying cause of a problem rather than just addressing symptoms
15. Which of the following is the correct order for donning PPE? → Gown → Mask → Eyewear → Gloves
16. Which chairside skill is critical when assisting with a composite restoration? → Controlling moisture with suction and air/water syringe.
17. Which type of orthodontic attachment is bonded directly to the facial surface of a tooth using dental adhesive? → Direct-bonded bracket
18. What is the correct sequence for placing a composite restoration? → Etch, rinse, bond, place composite, cure
19. What is the primary purpose of a space maintainer placed in a child's mouth after premature loss of a primary tooth? → To preserve the arch space so the permanent tooth can erupt into proper position
20. What is the correct approach to patient communication for a EFDA professional? → Use clear, simple language and verify patient understanding
21. In Angle's classification system, Class II malocclusion is characterized by which molar relationship? → Distal position of the mandibular dentition relative to the maxillary dentition
22. What is the PRIMARY consideration when performing patient assessment in Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification practice? → Patient safety and accurate data collection
23. In the context of Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification, what does "standard of care" refer to? → The level of care a reasonably competent professional would provide
24. Which material is used to take final impressions for crowns and bridges? → Polyvinyl siloxane (PVS).
25. When applying core principles in practice, what should be the first consideration? → Safety and compliance with established standards
26. What is the typical interval between orthodontic adjustment appointments during active treatment? → Every 4 to 8 weeks
27. In Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification practice, when should a patient's vital signs be reassessed? → Whenever there is a change in patient condition or as per established protocols
28. What is the primary purpose of a dental dam in restorative procedures? → To isolate the tooth and protect adjacent tissues
29. Which instrument is primarily used to fully seat orthodontic bands onto molar teeth? → Band pusher and bite stick
30. In Expanded Function Dental Assistant Certification, what role does continuous improvement play in emergency procedures & response? → It ensures practices evolve to meet changing requirements and improve outcomes