EFDA Students Experience Course Satisfaction, Career Enhancement with Certifications
O
ften, the best way to promote the value of something is to hear firsthand from someone who has experienced it and ben-
efitted from it. We asked some recent EFDA course attendees about the process of getting their certification and how that’s impacted their career. Want your team to get certified? Visit
moefda.org for complete information and registration details, or contact Mandy at the MDA for any questions.
DERICK LOPEZ, RDH, EFDA — NEWHOUSE PERIODONTICS, KANSAS CITY (DR. NANCY NEWHOUSE)
What EFDA certifications do you have? Removable Prosthodontics, Restorative I.
What was your experience of your recent EFDA course(s)? I had a great experience. It was fun, informative and provided a sup- portive environment where I got to meet new people who are passionate about dentistry. The program was engaging and non-stressful, which made the learning process even more enjoyable.
What did you like most about the EFDA course you took? The chance to connect with others who share the same love for the field while learning practical skills that directly apply to patient care. The instructors made the course both approachable and valuable, blending education with real-world applica- tion.
How has your EFDA certification been meaningful to you and your dental career? As a dental hygienist working at two different offices, earning my EFDA certifications has been a huge benefit. Both offices have been very busy lately, and these new skills allow me to step in and provide greater support to the dental team. It has expanded my role beyond hygiene and given me the chance to help a
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wider range of patients, not just the ones I typically see for preventive care.
What changes have you noticed in your workflow, confidence, or patient care? My confidence has definitely grown. The certifi- cation has helped me work more efficiently and feel comfortable caring for patients with needs outside of routine hygiene. It’s reward- ing to know I can contribute more meaning- fully to both the practice and the patients we serve.
If you could say one thing to someone considering this course, what would it be? Absolutely take it! The course is not only edu- cational but also fun and supportive. It’s an investment in yourself that builds confidence, broadens your skills and opens new opportu- nities to make an impact in your practice.
McKENNA ENGELHARD, EFDA — BIRK DENTAL, ST. LOUIS (DR. ADAM BIRK)
What EFDA certifications do you have? Removable Prosthodontics, Fixed Prosthodontics, Restorative I, studying for Restorative II.
What was your experience of your recent EFDA course(s)? It was great! My trainers were very helpful and encouraging. They wanted to see me succeed and believed in me when I was struggling to have confidence in myself. He gave a lot of tips, tricks, encour- agements and brought positivity to the class.
What did you like most about the EFDA course you took? The freedom to ask ques- tions without judgement; there was no shame in asking for help and the trainers want you to succeed.
How has your EFDA certification been meaningful to you and your dental career? I feel a big sense of accomplishment and pride.
I have gained a lot of knowledge in various ar- eas of dentistry that I probably wouldn’t have thought I could do when I first started in the field with being trained on the job. I can see a lot more of the dentist’s perspective which has helped me be a more supportive assistant.
What changes have you noticed in your workflow, confidence, or patient care? Mainly improved patient care, stemming from more knowledge and confidence. I can more thoroughly explain and educate patients on why and how we do procedures, which helps them feel more at ease and confident in the doctor and myself. My office runs smoother with me being trained to do expanded functions which allows time to help more patients.
If you could say one thing to someone considering this course, what would it be? Do it! The feeling of leaving a class and being certified in an expanded function is so fulfill- ing. Knowledge is power and will help you be a better assistant, help you be more confident in the field and overall give you such pride in your work that you might not otherwise have. Taking EFDA courses is one of the best decisions I have made in my career, and I would encourage anyone to do the same. If you can find a doctor that supports and helps train you and you put in the work, you will be successful.
DESTINY EAKINS, EFDA — MISSOURI HIGHLANDS DENTAL, POPLAR BLUFF (DR. KRISTEN ALEXANDER-FREY)
What EFDA certifications do you have? Restorative I and Restorative II.
What was your experience of your recent EFDA course(s)? I had a very good experi- ence with both of my EFDA courses I have completed. The material was presented clearly; the instructors were knowledgeable
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