Dental Hygiene

The practice of dental hygiene is “the assessment of teeth and adjacent tissues, treatment by preventive and therapeutic means, and the provision of restorative and orthodontic procedures and services” (DHA, 1991). Students will be prepared to provide oral health care in a variety of environments. Graduates will work within the scope of dental hygiene practice and in accordance with the regulations of the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario.

What You’ll Learn

• Practice in a professional and competent manner within the defined scope of practice consistent with current regulations and standards of practice.
• Evaluate clients’ oral health status using determinants of health and risk analysis to identify needs, justify treatment decisions and provide appropriate referrals to other health care professionals as required.
• Design, implement and evaluate a range of primary, interceptive, therapeutic, preventative, and on-going health care services to meet the unique needs of clients.
• Analyse oral health issues in need of advocacy, identify networks and promote actions that will support change and facilitate access to care.
• Identify, select, implement and evaluate quality assurance standards and protocols which contribute to a safe and effective working environment.
• Establish and maintain professional and interprofessional relationships which contribute to client care safety and positive healthcare outcomes.
• Facilitate the development of specific oral health attitudes, knowledge, skills, and behaviours in clients by selecting and utilizing principles of teaching and learning.
• Develop and present a model for a DH practice that addresses relevant business principles, current legislation and standards of practice.