Under current regulation, dental hygienists in B.C. may provide services within their Scope of Practice only if a patient has been examined by a dentist within the past 365 days, or on the same day prior to treatment; those hygienists with a residential care licence are exempt from this requirement. Any specific and appropriate instructions which may be given by the dentist must be followed. CDHBC has been working to remove this restriction due to the inaccessibility/unavailability of dentists to many clients in remote areas or with physical restrictions, which therefore limits their access to dental hygiene care. It is the College’s position that these clients should be given the choice to receive diagnosis and care from a dental hygienist if they are unable to access a dentist; the hygienist would then be required to provide the appropriate referrals and assist with facilitating referrals to a dentist or other oral health care professionals as necessary. Please see the News & Events page for updates in Spring 2010.

British Columbia has four laws that promote every adult’s right to self-determination and provide support and protection for those who are vulnerable to abuse or no longer capable of making their own decisions. The four acts that comprise the adult guardianship legislation are the: Representation Agreement Act; Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act; Adult Guardianship Act; and Public Guardian and Trustee Act. Together these acts confirm the right of adults to self-determination, including the right to refuse health care on moral, religious, or other grounds; provide an opportunity for adults to plan for a time when they may be incapable of making decisions about health, personal care, financial, and legal matters; ensure there are clear rules and guidelines for people making health care decisions for others; reinforce the role of family and friends in providing adults with support and assistance and substitute decision-making; address the issues of abuse, neglect, and self-neglect of adults who cannot seek help themselves; and provide a range of options for substitute or assisted decision-making.

Any marketing undertaken or authorized by a registrant to promote professional services for dental hygiene care must not be false, inaccurate, misleading, unverifiable, or contrary to the public interest. A registrant must avoid claims that establish unreasonable expectations for results of treatment or that imply a level of care not achievable by other registrants or another health profession. The title “specialist” or similar designation is not allowed on letterhead, business cards, or any other form of marketing. Registrants must retain copies of any publication or broadcast, including a record of when and where the item was distributed, for at least one year after the date of publication/broadcast. For additional guidelines, refer to Part VII of the CDHBC bylaws.

Effective since 1995, this legislation allows for recognition of credentials between provinces; any worker certified to practice an occupation by a regulatory authority of one member province/territory will be recognized as qualified to practice that occupation by all other member provinces/territories. The purpose of AIT is to minimize barriers to the free movement of persons, goods, services, and investment within Canada and to establish an open, efficient, and stable domestic market.

Visit AIT website

Dental hygienists need to have specific information about current guidelines for antibiotic premedication because dental hygiene assessment, implementation, and evaluation procedures can put the client at risk for subacute bacterial endocarditis. For more information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

B.C. PROGRAMS

Click on the school name to view the website

Camosun College
3100 Foul Bay Road
Victoria, B.C. V8P 5J2
Telephone: (250) 370-3180
Toll-free: (877) 554-7555
Email: bos@camosun.bc.ca

College of New Caledonia
3330 - 22nd Avenue,
Prince George, B.C. V2N 1P8
Telephone: (250) 561-5867
Toll-free: (800) 371-8111 ext. 5867
Email: askcnc@cnc.bc.ca

Vancouver College of Dental Hygiene
3030 East Broadway
Vancouver, BC, V5M 1Z4
Telephone: (250) 215-7611
Toll-free: (800) 457-3189
Email: info@vancouver-college-dental.org

Vancouver Community College
250 West Pender Street,
Vancouver, B.C. V6B 1S9
Telephone: (604) 443-8453
Email: dvuch@vcc.ca

Vancouver Island University
900 Fifth Street
Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 5S5
Telephone: (250) 753-3245
Toll-free: (888) 920-2221
Email: info@viu.ca

University of British Columbia
2199 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3
Telephone: (604) 822-9726
Email: dhygadm@interchange.ubc.ca

University of the Fraser Valley
Chilliwack Campus
45635 Yale Road
Chilliwack, B.C. V2P 6T4
Telephone: (604) 792-0025
Email: reginfo@ufv.ca

American Academy of Dental Hygiene

American Dental Hygienists’ Association

British Columbia Dental Hygienists’ Association (BCDHA)

Canadian Dental Hygienists Association

International Federation of Dental Hygienists

National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB)

For regulatory bodies, see Regulatory Organizations/Dental Hygiene

American Academy of Periodontology

American Dental Association

American Heart Association

BC Centre for Disease Control

BC Health Professions/Legislation and Professional Regulation

Canadian Academy of Periodontology

Canadian Dental Association

Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation

Health Professions Review Board

International Association for Dental Research

International Association for Disability and Oral Health

International College of Dentists

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

World Dental Federation

Below is a summary of the procedure to follow for percutaneous exposure (blood or body fluid entering the bloodstream) or permucosal exposure (blood or body fluids coming into contact with mucous membrane or a skin wound less than 3 days old). Source: Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

1. Cleanse:
Rinse the mucous membranes or eye with water; wash skin with soap and water; do not promote bleeding by cutting, scratching, or puncturing the skin.

2. Triage:
Go to the local hospital Emergency Department as soon as possible (or an alternative site that has antiretroviral starter kits supplied by the B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS). If antiretroviral therapy is indicated for possible HIV exposure, it must be administered as soon as possible after exposure, preferably within two hours. Hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) should be given preferably within 48 hours after exposure to the hepatitis B virus, but may be given for up to seven days. Detailed risk assessment and management of potential exposure to all pathogens (HIV, HBV, and HCV) can take place in a hospital Emergency Department or other health facility.

3. Assess the risk:
Complete a risk assessment of the exposure, using the “Management of Percutaneous or Permucosal Exposure to Blood and Body Fluid/Laboratory Requisition” form available in the Emergency Department or health facilities supplied with antiretroviral starter kits; this will determine the risk of transmission from the exposure. Assess the risk of transmission from the source: If the source has recently tested negative for HIV, HBV, or HCV but is in a high-risk group, subtract six months from the date of the most recent blood test result. From that date, if the source has continued to participate in high-risk behaviour for HIV, HBV, or HCV infection, he/she should be considered potentially infectious despite their negative test result, and the exposed person should be managed accordingly. Do not wait for the source’s test results before initiating post-exposure treatment.

4. Determine the HIV, HBV, and HCV status of the exposed person and previous immunization against HBV:
If the exposed person has not recently been tested, obtain informed consent and obtain blood tests, but do not await results before commencing post-exposure treatment.

5. Determine the requirement for post-exposure management:
Post-exposure treatment is required when all of the following conditions are present: percutaneous, permucosal, or non-intact skin exposure has occurred; the exposure is to blood, potentially infectious body fluid, or tissue; the source is considered potentially infectious (positive test, in a higher risk group, unreliable, or unknown); and, the exposed person is considered susceptible (no history of positive test to HIV, HBC, or HCV).

6. Counselling:
Arrange for post-exposure counselling in the health facility, followed by counselling with the family physician or other designated physician.

7. Arrange for clinical and laboratory follow-up:
Consult with the exposed person’s family physician or other designated physician, following guidelines established by the Ministry of Health.

The trade name for an injectable form of the neurotoxic protein of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Since 2002, when the FDA approved its use to temporarily reduce wrinkles, Botox® has become the most common cosmetic procedure in the U.S. Its use is not within the Scope of Practice for dental hygienists. For more information, see “Root of the Matter,” ACCESS Spring 09

The College bylaws (Registrant’s Handbook, “Regulation and Bylaws”) set out the details of the operation of CDHBC including: the election and appointment of the governing Board; the duties and responsibilities of the Board, Registrar, and Deputy Registrar; qualifications of registrants; standards of practice; and regulation of professional conduct. To ensure an appropriate standard of professional conduct in their practice, registrants must become familiar with the provisions of the bylaws, including the Code of Ethics and Practice Standards.

Federal legislation for publicly funded health care insurance, the Act sets out the primary objective of Canadian health care policy, which is “to protect, promote, and restore the physical and mental well-being of residents of Canada and to facilitate reasonable access to health services without financial or other barriers.”

Visit Canada Health Act website

See Oral Cancer

Under Section 14 of the Child, Family and Community Service Act, a person who has reason to believe a child has been, or is likely to be, physically harmed, sexually abused or exploited, or in need of protection, has a legal duty to promptly report the matter. This duty to report applies even if the information is privileged or confidential. Registrants who suspect that a child is being abused or neglected are required by law to promptly report their suspicions with the Ministry for Children and Families: (800) 663-9122. Registrants who believe that a child is in immediate danger should also call their local police department. For more information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

Infants

Toddlers

The legislative authority for the ministry's Child Protection Services. The Act requires that anyone who has reason to believe that a child may be abused, neglected, or is for any other reason in need of protection, must report it to the Director of Child Protection or a delegated social worker. These reports are investigated by social workers, who take the most appropriate action that is least disruptive for the child. These actions may include providing or arranging the provision of support services to the family, supervising the child's care in the home, or protecting the child through removal from the family and placement with relatives, a foster family, or specialized residential resources. Social workers also have the delegated authority of the Director to approve foster homes for children who come into the care of the ministry.

An effective anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis chemotherapeutic agent. Topical oral preparations of chlorhexidine and chlorhexidine salts are listed in the federal Food and Drugs Act as Schedule I drugs, which require a prescription for sale and are provided to the public by a pharmacist following the diagnosis and professional intervention of a “practitioner”, which includes dentists and physicians as defined by provincial legislation.

Chlorhexidine is routinely used in-office by dental hygienists for irrigation, topical application and rinsing, and may be given to the client for home use as a mouth rinse or for site specific irrigation. Chlorhexidine may also be purchased by clients for home use.

A written prescription by a dentist or physician is required for the sale of chlorhexidine to a client. A prescription note must be recorded in the client's record. In-office use of chlorhexidine by dental hygienists must be documented in the client's chart, as must any chlorhexidine preparations given to a client for home use. A prescription is not required. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See Registration & Renewal => Clinical Exam

The purpose of CDHBC's Code of Ethics, below (found in the Registrant’s Handbook, Tab 4), is to provide general statements of the principles of ethical conduct so that registered dental hygienists may fulfil their duty to the public and to their profession.

A dental hygienist must:

1. Hold paramount the health and welfare of those served professionally;

2. Provide competent and appropriate care to clients;

3. Practice the principle of confidentiality;

4. Treat clients with respect for their individual needs and values;

5. Regard the clients’ rights to control their own care;

6. Inform clients of the dental hygiene care available to them, clearly advise them of probable consequences of not following recommended action, but respect the client’s right of informed choice;

7. Recognize the expertise and contribution of colleagues and other disciplines as essential to excellent client care;

8. Uphold the principle that the public should have fair and equitable access to dental hygiene services;

9. Maintain a high level of skill by participating in programs of continued study to update and advance their body of knowledge;

10. Report to their licensing body or other appropriate agencies any illegal or unethical professional decisions or practices by dental hygienists, or others;

11. Avoid a conflict of interest in carrying out professional duties, but where such conflict arises, fully disclose the circumstances without delay to the client or appropriate agency; and

12. Represent the values and ethics of dental hygiene before others, and maintain the public trust in dental hygienists and their profession.

The body responsible for accrediting dental, dental specialty, dental residency, dental hygiene, and dental assisting education programs across Canada. CDAC also accredits dental services. In Quebec, dental services are accredited by ODQ and are recognized by CDAC.

See Committees & Staff

Under Section 17 of the Infants Act, children under the age of 19 can consent directly to health care treatment, without parental/guardian consent, if the minor has sufficient intelligence and maturity to appreciate the nature and consequences of the health care. The proposed treatment must be in the minor’s best interest; health care includes treatment for therapeutic, preventive, palliative, diagnostic, or other health-related purposes. In an emergency, life-saving treatments can be provided to a minor without consent. The legislation does not provide age limits for determining the capability of minors consenting to health care.

Prior to obtaining consent from a minor, the dental hygienist must be convinced that the treatment is in the minor’s best interest. If in any doubt, the dental hygienist should consult with a colleague. While obtaining consent from a minor, the dental hygienist should explain the treatment, including the nature, consequences, risks, and benefits of the treatment, and then question the minor to ensure that all aspects of the proposed treatment are understood. It is up to the dental hygienist to determine if the minor is capable of consenting.

Record keeping should include a summary of the discussion with the minor, including notations that the proposed treatment is judged to be in the minor’s best interest; proposed treatment was explained; and, the nature, consequences, risks, and benefits were ascertained. If any of these criteria cannot be met, and if the proposed treatment is not an emergency, health care cannot be provided without parental/guardian consent, and the minor must consent to the disclosure of information to the parent/guardian. Reference: Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

2009 CC Credit Form (PDF)

2010 CC Credit Form (PDF)

American Dental Hygienists’ Association

BCDHA Dental Hygiene Refresher Course

Colgate Oral Care Reports

Continuing Education Studies

www.dentalcare.com: free online courses with certificates

Dental Learning

DenTrek: The Global Dental Education Network

Dentsply Online Self-Study

Health Studies Institute

International Dental Seminars

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

UCLA Periodontics Information Center

University of Florida: Oral Health Care for Persons with Disabilities

University of Massachusetts: Basic Skills for Working with Smokers

Please note: CDHBC does not endorse or guarantee approval of CE credits prior to course review, regardless of provider.

Under the Criminal Records Review Act, anyone who works with children or who has unsupervised access to children must submit to a Criminal Record Check. The Act helps protect children from individuals whose criminal record indicates they pose a risk of physical or sexual abuse. For more information and frequently asked questions, view the CDHBC Criminal Record Check Fact Sheet.

The Darlene Thomas Award for Vision and Leadership in Dental Hygiene is presented annually to a dental hygienist who, like Darlene Thomas, demonstrates the highest level of professional commitment and leadership. Darlene Thomas was a member of the first CDHBC Board of Directors, and was elected by her fellow Board members as the first Chair of the Board in 1995. She was a leader in the dental hygiene profession at the local, provincial and national levels, practicing for 34 years before succumbing to breast cancer at age 54, in 1999. Darlene had a progressive vision for dental hygiene, which she communicated through her many professional activities and her constant encouragement of others. She was also a dedicated wife, mother, and community leader.

Nomination Form & Information
 

Alveolar bone: The part of the jaw that surround the roots of the teeth.

Appropriate education: Acquisition of the knowledge and skills required to provide specific dental hygiene services at an entry-level standard of competence. Appropriate education provides a theoretical and practical foundation for competent, legal, ethical, and professional practice. For some services, appropriate education is the successful completion of a formal education course; for others, reading literature or watching a demonstration video is considered appropriate. Professional judgment is required. If registrants are not able to competently perform a previously learned skill or a new technology or practice, they must abstain from providing that service to a client until appropriate education can be obtained.

Assessment: Involves the gathering or updating of information relating to the client’s general and oral health, including the hard and soft tissues of the head, neck, and oral cavity. The dental hygienist will obtain this information by completing some or all of the following assessment procedures: medical and dental history, including wellness habits such as nutritional issues and use of tobacco and/or alcohol products; vital signs; examination of head, neck, and intra-oral soft tissues; periodontal, dental, and occlusal examination; diagnostic tests which may include pulp vitality or bacterial/enzyme tests to determine caries risk and periodontal disease; radiographic implementation and interpretation (x-rays); dental impressions for study models; intra-oral and extra-oral dental photographs; and preparing biopsy specimens for lab analysis.

Bacterial endocarditis: Inflammation of the membrane (endocardium) lining the inside of the heart and the heart valves, caused by bacterial infection. Symptoms include fever and changes in heart rhythms; damage to heart valves may occur. Treatment consists of bed rest, antibiotics, and surgery, if necessary, to treat damaged valves.

Calculus: Hard deposit of mineralized material adhering to crowns and/or roots of teeth.

Caries: Commonly used term for tooth decay.

Cementum: Hard connective tissue covering the tooth root.

Debridement: Removing foreign matter or dead tissue.

Dental hygienist: A registered oral health professional who performs some or all of the following procedures in a variety of health care settings, including private practice, long-term care, public health, education, research, and administration:

• implement the dental hygiene process of care which includes conducting an initial dental hygiene assessment, planning treatment, implementing the plan, and evaluating the treatment;
• consult with other health care providers on patient care;
• take dental impressions;
• instruct patients regarding oral hygiene procedures and disease prevention;
• clean above and below the gums to prevent gum disease;
• remove stains and deposits from teeth to prevent tooth and root decay;
• apply fluoride and/or other therapeutic treatments;
• take and develop X-rays;
• may perform restorative and orthodontic procedures in collaboration with a dentist;
• may work collaboratively with dental assistants, denturists, dental technicians, and/or dentists in their health care functions.

The professional role of a dental hygienist involves five primary responsibilities: clinical therapy, health promotion, education, administration, and research.

Dentin: That part of the tooth that is beneath enamel and cementum.

Gingiva: Soft tissues overlying the crowns of unerupted teeth and encircling the necks of those that have erupted (pushed through the gums).

Gingivitis: Inflammation of gingival tissue without loss of connective tissue.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): A viral infection 50 to 100 times more infectious than HIV, transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person; attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. About 2 billion people worldwide have been infected with the virus and about 350 million live with chronic infection. An estimated 600,000 persons die each year due to the acute or chronic consequences of hepatitis B (liver cancer or cirrhosis/scarring of the liver). Hepatitis B is preventable with a safe and effective vaccine.

Interproximal: Between the teeth.

Intraoral: Inside the mouth.

Lingual: Pertaining to or around the tongue; surface of the tooth directed toward the tongue; opposite of facial.

Malocclusion: Improper alignment of biting or chewing surfaces of upper and lower teeth.

Maxilla: The upper jaw.

Occlusal: Pertaining to the biting surfaces of the premolar and molar teeth or contacting surfaces of opposing teeth or opposing occlusion rims.

Occlusion: Any contact between biting or chewing surfaces of maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth.

Oral mucosa: The pink-red tissues that line the mouth.

Periodontal: Pertaining to the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth.

Periodontal abscess: An infection in the gum pocket that can destroy hard and soft tissues.

Periodontal disease: Inflammatory process of the gingival tissues and/or periodontal membrane of the teeth, resulting in an abnormally deep gingival sulcus, possibly producing periodontal pockets and loss of supporting alveolar bone.

Periodontal pocket: Pathologically deepened gingival sulcus; a feature of periodontal disease.

Periodontitis: Inflammation and loss of the connective tissue of the supporting or surrounding structure of teeth with loss of attachment.

Plaque: A soft, sticky substance composed largely of bacteria and bacterial derivatives which accumulates on teeth.

Premedication: The use of medications prior to dental procedures.

Prophylaxis: Scaling and polishing procedure performed to remove coronal plaque, calculus, and stains.

Root planing: A procedure designed to remove microbial flora, bacterial toxins, calculus, and diseased cementum or dentin on the root surfaces and in the pockets at depths greater than 4mm to ensure that root surfaces are clean and smooth. Root planing may also involve the removal of superficial tooth/root substance at any depth.

Scaling: Removal of plaque, calculus, and stain from teeth.

Sealants: Plastic resin placed on the biting surfaces of molars to prevent bacteria from attacking the enamel and causing caries.

Stomatitis: Inflammation of the membranes in the mouth.

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ): Abnormal functioning of temporomandibular joint (the connecting hinge mechanism between the base of the skull, or temporal bone, and the lower jaw, or mandible; also refers to symptoms arising in other areas secondary to the dysfunction.

For detailed definitions and information about many dental conditions, visit the American Dental Association’s Glossary of Dental Terms, the Dental Advice Index, the American Dental Association’s Oral Health Topics, or see above Associations/Other.

Clarifies the actual or potential conditions or concerns of a client that can be identified and treated according to the dental hygiene Scope of Practice. These conditions or concerns are identified through an interpretation of the assessment data. Other terms commonly used for "dental hygiene diagnosis" include "assessment interpretations," "assessment findings," and "periodontal status statements." The dental hygienist records an interpretation of the assessment data including a chart notation of the condition(s) found and the supporting evidence, or a formal dental hygiene diagnostic statement(s), using any one of the models described in current dental hygiene literature.

Interpretation of assessment data must be discussed with the client or the client's representative. The dental hygienist would state the abnormal or unhealthy condition(s) identified during interpretation of the assessment data; explain to the client or their representative the evidence supporting this interpretation; and state any conditions that require care or attention during the dental hygiene appointment.

Conditions diagnosed by the dental hygienist must be within the dental hygiene scope of practice. Conditions that would be treated by a dentist or referred to a dentist, dental specialist, physician, or other health care provider are identified as requiring referral. Referrals are not part of the dental hygiene diagnosis but are part of the dental hygiene treatment plan. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

In December 1994, government approved the Dental Hygienists Regulation (effective March 1, 1995). This law establishes the CDHBC and identifies the Scope of Practice, reserved acts, and limitations on practice. Reference: Registrant’s Handbook, Tab 3.

As stated in the CDHBC Practice Standards, a dental hygienist must document the dental hygiene care provided, following protocols of the practice setting. This includes labeling all client records with the client’s name and date, recording accurate details of care provided, recording details/copies of pertinent communications with the client and other health professionals, documentation of informed refusal to consent, etc. When the dental hygienist owns the client’s records, the information must be retained in a secure manner for no less than 10 years after the last appointment. Please refer to Practice Standard #8 for more information.

Dental waterlines have been proven to carry much higher levels of bacteria than tap water. Recent studies have demonstrated that dental waterlines carry a range of 10,000 to10,000,000 colony forming units per milliliter of water (cfu/ml). This compares to the national Canadian and U.S. drinking water standard of less than or equal to 500 cfu/ml.

Although there is disagreement among experts as to whether the high bacterial counts in dental waterlines constitute a public health risk, it is in the public's best interest to reduce contaminants. Clients who could be at risk are those with compromised immune systems.

There are numerous products and devices available to improve the water quality in dental waterlines. None have been proven to be completely effective; a combined approach is recommended. In order to reduce dental waterline contaminants and potential effects from dental waterline water, CDHBC recommends the following:

1. Avoid using heated dental unit waterlines or use equipment (e.g. air/water syringe) that has the heat source close to where the water exits.

2. Use sterile water or sterile saline solution in a hand syringe when irrigating open periodontal lesions, particularly for immuno-suppressed clients.

3. With attachments removed, flush waterlines for five to eight minutes at the beginning of each day, and for a shorter period between patients.

4. Follow manufacturer's instructions for daily and weekly maintenance of your water delivery system.

5. Provide drinking water from a source other than the air/water syringe.

6. Advise clients not to close their lips and form a seal around the suction tip unless tips are safety designed to avoid reverse flow.

7. If using a disinfectant regimen, or filtration system, follow the manufacturer's protocols for maintenance and replacement of filters, etc.

For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See Registrant’s Handbook, “Regulation and Bylaws.”

CDHBC is not able to answer questions regarding contracts, employment opportunities or other topics related to personal business and finance management. For more information go to BCDHA, the Employment Standards Act (BC), and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.

It is important to ensure that clients have the benefit of an overall dental examination to assess general oral health. As stated in the Dental Hygienists Regulation, no registrant may practice dental hygiene unless, prior to or during the appointment, the client is examined by a dentist; and, at the time of any subsequent appointment, the client has been examined by a dentist within the previous 365 days or within such shorter time as is necessary or appropriate in accordance with good dental hygiene practice. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines;” also see the 365-Day Rule.

Fee guides for dental hygiene services are not within the jurisdiction of CDHBC. For College fees, see the Registrant's Handbook, Tab 3, p.66: Schedule D.

CDHBC encourages its registrants to continue to assess patients on a case-by-case basis and to ensure that universal infection control protocols are followed in an effort to manage the spread of the H1N1 virus (swine flu). According to the evidence available, H1N1 has an incubation period of approximately seven days, and similar to other human influenzas, infected individuals may remain contagious for up to seven days.

The virus is spread via aerosols produced by coughing and sneezing, and through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Those at risk of severe infection include those with complicating medical factors and/or immunocompromising conditions, pregnant women and young children.

Symptoms of this virus include acute onset of respiratory illness with cough, with or without fever; gastrointestinal symptoms may also present. If there is shortness of breath or pain breathing, it is recommended to see a doctor immediately.

As primary oral health care providers, dental hygienists have a professional responsibility to continue to provide patient care in the face of infectious disease outbreaks. Maintaining optimal infection control standards will prevent transmission between patients and health care providers while ensuring that oral care needs are met. Despite careful prevention in the clinical setting, it is still possible to contract the H1N1 virus through a variety of daily activities outside of the dental office. Dental hygienists who present with the symptoms outlined above are encouraged to stay at home in order to further decrease transmission among the public.

Further information regarding vaccinations, anti-virals and H1N1 preparedness can be found at the following sites:

www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/index-eng.php

www.gov.bc.ca/h1n1/

If you become symptomatic or have questions regarding H1N1, please contact the H1N1 Flu Hotline at (800) 454-8302 or call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, 24 hours/7 days per week to speak directly with a nurse. For current, daily-updated information on this situation, please visit the Centre for Disease Control website: www.bccdc.ca. Also see the Fall 2009 issue of Access for more information.

The Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act confirms the right of adults (persons 19 years of age or older) to make their own health care decisions, either independently or with support from family and friends. The law formally recognizes the role of family and friends who support adults needing assistance with health care decision-making. In the event that an adult is unconscious, mentally incapable, or otherwise unable to give consent, the law sets out procedures to follow.

In 2004, the provincial government approved changes to the College's bylaws to allow dental hygienists to incorporate as health profession corporations for the purpose of providing dental hygiene services. Registrants may apply to the Board for approval of a Dental Hygiene Corporation Name and a Health Profession Corporation Permit. See also, Incorporation Application & Information.

The law that mandates self-regulation for certain health professions, including dental hygiene; each health profession develops its own regulation and bylaws, which must then be approved by government according to the Health Professions Act. The HPA describes the duties and responsibilities of the College and its Board and Committees, and it specifies how inspections, inquiries, and disciplinary actions are to be carried out, along with general direction on the requirements for registering members of the profession.

AIDS is a chronic debilitating disease which requires careful and meticulous care by health professionals. The use of universal precautions, i.e. proper barrier techniques, allows the dental team to treat all persons safely and effectively. Dental hygiene practitioners in British Columbia must not refuse treatment to patients who are HIV positive or have AIDS, solely due to this condition. Dental hygiene professionals have a moral and ethical responsibility to render necessary dental treatment to all members of the public. By ensuring that universal precautions are routinely carried out, dental hygiene treatment can and should be provided for HIV positive/AIDS patients in the dental office as part of routine care, unless medical complications or oral conditions are such that this would be inadvisable, and would further compromise the client’s health. Some HIV positive patients will require referrals for specialized treatment. These referrals should occur in a routine manner and should not occur solely because the patients are HIV positive. Clear and effective communication is essential to ensure that these patients understand the nature of the problem necessitating referral and the reasons for it. Reference: Registrant’s Handbook, “Practice Standards” and “Interpretation Guidelines.”

All registrants are encouraged to obtain vaccination against Hepatitis B (HBV) and to maintain an ongoing, thorough awareness of his/her personal health status. Dental hygienists perform invasive “exposure-prone procedures” that present the opportunity for clients to be exposed to the health care worker’s blood. Through the strict use of universal infection control precautions, however, the risk of transmission is virtually zero. A registrant who knows he/she is infected with a bloodborne pathogen (including HIV, Hepatitis B virus, and Hepatitis C virus) is obliged to contact the College for guidance with his/her practice of dental hygiene. This contact may be in-person or anonymous through an advocate or colleague; the identity of an infected registrant need not be known provided that the infected dental hygienist does not present a risk of harm to the client and is following all recommendations. If the registrant or liaison becomes aware that the dental hygienist is no longer able to consistently provide dental hygiene care with a high standard of infection control, or may otherwise be putting his/her clients at risk, the Registrar must be informed immediately. For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

Heart failure patients are commonly treated with permanent pacemakers, cardiac resynchronization therapy and devices (CRTs), implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), or hemodynamic monitors. A small computer or microprocessor is implanted under the skin, usually near the clavicle; often one or more of these features can be present in a single or “combined” device. Pacemakers and ICDs are sensitive to strong electromagnetic signals that may temporarily interfere with function. Clients are often provided with a device identification card, which identifies the model number, manufacturer of the device, and medical contacts; this information will assist in identifying any contraindications for proceeding with dental hygiene treatment.

Medical consultation may be needed prior to dental hygiene care. Most dental hygiene/dental procedures do not involve strong electromagnetic signals and therefore are unlikely to interfere with a shielded pacemaker or ICD; however, magnetostrictive (Cavitron) instruments may be contraindicated, in which case a sonic or piezoelectric instrument may be used. Covering unshielded pacemakers with a lead apron will offer protection from electrical interference. Care should be taken to avoid draping cords over the client; the transducer (working end) and cabling should be kept at least six inches away from the implanted cardiac device. The presence of a pacemaker or ICD indicates a medically compromised heart condition that could require treatment modifications or stress reduction protocols. Antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended for cardiac pacemakers (intravascular and epicardial) and implanted defibrillators. New technologies and the rate of replacement (every 4-6 years for some ICDs) suggest frequent review of the implanted cardiac devices. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

For a one-page summary of the incorporation process, download a copy of the College's Health Profession Corporation Name and Permit Information Sheet.

Subject to Part 4 - Health Profession Corporations of the Health Professions Act and Part 6 - Health Profession Corporations of the CDHBC bylaws, registrants may apply to the Board for approval of a Dental Hygiene Corporation Name and a Health Professions Corporation Permit.

A health profession corporation that holds a valid permit may not carry on any activities other than the provision of dental hygiene services or services that are directly associated with the provision of those services that would, for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), give rise to income from business.

In order to obtain a permit, you must:

1. OBTAIN APPROVAL FROM CDHBC FOR YOUR CORPORATE NAME.
To download a Dental Hygiene Corporation Name Approval Form, click here. Complete the form and return it to the College office. See Section 64, Part 6 of the College bylaws for information about naming your corporation.

2. RESERVE YOUR CORPORATE NAME.
Apply to the Registrar of Companies to reserve your proposed name.

3. REGISTER YOUR CORPORATION.
Apply to the Registrar of Companies to register your corporation under the B.C. Business Corporations Act. about how to structure your corporation. College staff members are not qualified to offer legal advice about tax matters or how to structure your corporation; you may wish to seek legal or accounting advice.

4. APPLY FOR A CORPORATION PERMIT.
Once you corporation has been registered under the B.C. Business Corporations Act, you may apply for a permit. To download a New Health Profession Corporation Permit Application Form (PDF), click here. Complete the form and return it to the College office along with the following additional documentation: a notarized copy of the certificate of incorporation and any change of name certificates from the Registrar of Companies, and $100 permit fee (cheque or money order, payable to CDHBC).

The permit is valid from the date issued by CDHBC until the following March 1.

5. PERMIT RENEWAL:
You must renew your permit ANNUALLY. The College sends out annual renewal forms. To maintain your permit, you must submit a renewal application form, completed accurately and fully, with a renewal fee of $25. To download a Health Profession Corporation Renewal Form, click here.

6. PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF CORPORATE STATUS:
A health profession corporation must disclose on all letterhead and business cards and in all other advertisements that the services of dental hygiene are being provided by a health profession corporation. See Section 66 of the College bylaws.

7. CHANGE OF CORPORATE NAME:
If you intend to change the name of your health profession corporation, you must apply to the College for a certificate that the College does not object to the intended name of the health profession corporation. See Section 65 of the College bylaws.

Legal literature states that, generally, eight criteria should exist in order for a client to give informed consent to treatment:

1) The client must be legally competent.

2) The client must possess the mental capacity to authorize care.

3) The client must receive a proper disclosure of information from the caregiver.

4) The authorization should be specific to the procedure to be performed.

5) The client should have an opportunity to ask questions and to receive understandable answers.

6) The authorization obtained should be free of undue influence and coercion.

7) The authorization obtained should be free of misrepresentation of material information.

8) The consent should be obtained by the treating professional or all of the professionals if the treatment involves a team of practitioners.

According to CDHBC Practice Standards, dental hygienists obtain client consent for clinical care and research. Informed refusal to consent is the logical converse of the same standard and should be fully documented. The law upholds an individual’s right to refuse treatment except when the choice goes against provincial law or threatens the well-being of others. If a client refuses to consent to any aspects of clinical dental hygiene care, the dental hygienist must ensure that the client or their representative fully understands the treatment or process being recommended and the likely consequences of refusing the treatment at this time, and over time.

Refusal to consent must be clearly documented in the client’s records and must include the specific refusal and date, and the dental hygienist’s initials. All client questions must be answered; an interpreter must be used if there is any chance that the client may not fully understand the choice they are making. Refusal to consent should be reviewed regularly. For more information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

Located in Tab 7 of the Registrant’s Handbook, these guidelines describe and explain pertinent aspects of the Dental Hygienists Regulation and Scope of Practice.

Jury duty is a legal obligation and a right of community members served by the justice system. The right to a trial by a jury of one’s peers is a cornerstone of our democratic society, and one of its oldest institutions; it exists to protect the individual’s rights and to involve the community in the administration of justice. The Health Professions Act does not allow for exemption from jury duty. However, exemption may be granted based on extraordinary circumstances (with proof through an application to the sheriff’s office), for circumstances including health issues, if it would cause extreme hardship (such as being a nursing mother or suffering damage to your business if self-employed), or if firm travel plans conflict with the jury selection or trial dates. For more information, refer to ACCESS, July 97, the Jury Act, or the Employment Standards Act (Part 6, sections 55/56).

Some dental lasers, such as the diode laser, can be used in dental hygiene treatment regimens by removing diseased epithelial lining of the periodontal pocket and reducing the intrasulcular bacterial population. However, lasers have the potential to cause permanent thermal damage to bone and tooth root structure if used inappropriately. Dental hygiene professionals who have received the appropriate education may use laser treatment for periodontal therapy, but the Canadian Academy of Periodontology (CAP) does not recommend or support the use of lasers in the treatment of periodontal disease because long-term comparative clinical studies have not determined the efficacy of this technique. CDHBC advises that lasers have not been proven effective in removing calculus from a diseased root surface or in producing a sterile field; dental hygienists also should be aware that gingival curettage is not within the Scope of Practice. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.” Research is available in a literature review article by the American Academy of Periodontology.

The Dental Hygienists Regulation states that no registrant may administer oral local anesthetic except where a dentist is on-site and immediately available, or in a facility if the oral local anesthetic has been authorized by a medical practitioner or dentist, and a person qualified to act in a medical emergency is immediately available. A dentist should be present at the time of administration and for 10 minutes thereafter; otherwise, a person other than the dental hygienist who is qualified to act in a medical emergency must be present during administration and for 10 minutes thereafter. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

In order to be registered with CDHBC or to challenge the Clinical Exam, a dental hygienist must have current coverage.

Providers:

Canadian Dental Hygienists Association
www.cdha.ca; (800) 267-5235 or (613) 224-5515

Canadian Dental Service Plans Incorporated
www.cdspi.com; (800) 561-9401 or (416) 296-9401

Research confirms that mouthguards can prevent orofacial injuries in sports. The majority of orofacial injuries affect the upper jaw, with maxillary central incisors accounting for 80 percent of all cases. The CDHBC has approved a guideline stating that dental hygienists can, following appropriate training, provide custom-fitted athletic mouthguards to their clients for the prevention of sports injuries to the skull and dentition. There is significant opportunity for dental hygienists to help protect the health and safety of children and adults in sports by supporting, providing and promoting custom-fabricated mouthguard use.

Many associations and organizations have adopted position statements that require mouthguards to be worn during sports participation. There are three basic types of sports mouthguards: stock, mouth-formed and custom-fabricated. A good mouthguards offers comfort, fit, durability and ability to breathe and speak. These qualities are found in the custom-fabricated mouthguards. Reference: Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.” Further information is also available from the Academy for Sports Dentistry.

As stated in the Clinical Therapy section of the Scope of Practice, a dental hygienist may manage client pain, anxiety, and fears. Inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide has proven to be an extremely effective and safe technique for the reduction of stress in the apprehensive or medically compromised client. The administration of nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation gases is not within the dental hygiene Scope of Practice, meaning the decision to initiate sedation and/or adjust the flow of gases. The delivery of nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation gases is within the dental hygiene Scope of Practice, with appropriate education, which may include experience in providing dental hygiene services to clients sedated by nitrous oxide/oxygen gases. However, the preferred “appropriate education” is formal theoretical and clinical instruction.

"Delivery" of nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation gases: performed by the person who follows the administration instructions.

CDHBC requires that all supporting materials for registration or Clinical Exam applications must be certified by a notary public to ensure that documents (including photos and proof of graduation) are not forged or falsified. Listings are available in your local phone book.

“Root of the Matter,” ACCESS Fall 08

BC Cancer Agency

The Oral Cancer Foundation

Dental hygienists providing orthodontic and prosthodontic services to their clients will have obtained education in their basic dental hygiene program or through a post-diploma formal education course for the services being provided. Based on client need, this may include placing and removing temporary restorations, including provisional prosthodontic restorations, and performing orthodontic procedures. The Dental Hygienists Regulation does not require supervision for the provision of these services; however, because the dental hygiene Scope of Practice does not include orthodontic or prosthodontic diagnosis, most services will be provided while working with a dentist. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

For more information, see Registrant’s Handbook, “Patient Relations Program.”

The delivery of subgingival, controlled-release chemotherapeutic delivery systems is within the dental hygiene Scope of Practice, with appropriate education and consideration for precautions and contraindications about the product being used. The prescription of a chemotherapeutic agent is not within the dental hygiene Scope of Practice, but the use of controlled-release chemotherapeutic agents by dental hygienists is authorized.

Chemotherapy involves treatment with a drug or chemical agent. Chemotherapeutics alone are unlikely to be effective in reducing the presence of subgingival calculus, underscoring the importance of subgingival mechanical debridement.

Mechanical and chemical antimicrobial intervention is the mainstay of preventive periodontal therapy. The only clinically efficacious means of administering antimicrobial agents for the treatment of periodontal disease are systemic administration and controlled release devices. Controlled release devices provide a means of administering antimicrobial agents directly into the periodontal pocket without the side effects associated with systemic drug administration.

The use of locally delivered antimicrobial agents to control gingivitis and periodontitis has been focused on control of plaque and gingivitis. The use of dentifrices, mouth rinses and irrigation for the treatment of periodontitis is impaired by the inability of these delivery systems to reach the base of periodontal pockets and/or maintain agents for sufficient duration at requisite concentrations.

The controlled-release system theoretically produces more constant, prolonged concentration profiles. The goal of chemotherapy is to alter the periodontal flora or inhibit the host response in such a way that the periodontal status improves. Doxycycline gel (Atridox) and chlorhexedine chip (perio chip) are examples of such devices.

Results of present studies suggest that most local delivery systems appear to be capable of reducing probing depths and achieving modest gains in clinical attachment. Local drug delivery, as an adjunct to conventional care, should be reserved for non-responding sites or patients with recurrent disease who need an alternative treatment approach. For more information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

The eight Practice Standards in Tab 5 of the Registrant’s Handbook are part of CDHBC’s bylaws. Dental hygienists have a legal and professional responsibility to be familiar with the Practice Standards and associated policies. By reviewing them regularly, dental hygienists may self-evaluate their practice and identify areas for continuing competency focus.

A dental hygienist must:

1. Obtain informed consent from the client or the client’s representative before initiating dental hygiene care.
2. Practice safely.
3. Assess the client’s needs.
4. Analyze the assessment information and make a dental hygiene diagnosis.
5. Plan for the dental hygiene care to be provided, based on the assessment data and dental hygiene diagnosis.
6. Implement the plan consented to or adjust the plan in consultation with the client or the client’s representative.
7. Evaluate while dental hygiene care is being provided, and at the completion of care, to determine if the desired outcome has been achieved.
8. Document the dental hygiene care provided, following protocols of the practice setting.

As stated in the Scope of Practice, dental hygienists may apply fissure sealants; the resins used for pit and fissure sealants are similar to the composite resins used for preventative resins. The management and application techniques of both materials are similar; therefore, registrants may apply preventative resins on prepared teeth.

Tooth preparations for fissure sealants and preventative resins differ. To prepare a tooth surface for a sealant, the surface is cleaned and an acid etchant is applied to create retentive micropores. When the dentist prepares a tooth surface for a preventative resin, a preparation is cut into the tooth surface using a bur or an aluminum oxide air abrasion system; as stated in the Sealant policy (“Interpretation Guidelines”), aluminum oxide air abrasives cut hard tissue, which is outside the dental hygiene Scope of Practice. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.” Updates will be provided via regular Handbook amendments and on this website’s News & Events page.

For more information, see Access, Fall 08

BOOKS
Blackburn, S., Being Good: A Short Introduction to Ethics, Oxford University Press.

Daniel, S.J. & Harfst, S.A. (Eds.). Mosby’s Dental Hygiene Concepts, Cases and Competencies, Second Edition. St. Louis: Mosby, Elsevier Sciences, 2008.

Darby, M.L. and Walsh, M.M., Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice, Third Edition. Saunders, 2010.

Gurenlian, J.R., Comprehensive Dental Hygiene Care, Mosby, 1993.

Kimbrough, V., Ethics, Jurisprudence and Practice Management in Dental Hygiene, Prentice Hall, 2006.

Mueller-Joseph, L. and Petersen, M., Dental Hygiene Process: Diagnosis and Care Planning, Delmar, 1995.

Wilkins, I., Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, Lea & Febiger, 1999.
 

OTHER PUBLICATIONS
Oral Health in America: A Report of the U.S. Surgeon General, 2000.

WEBSITES
American Academy of Dental Hygiene: Resources & Links

The Cochrane Collaboration

International Association for Dental Research

Medline

National Center for Dental Hygiene Research

World Health Organization: Health Topics listings

Other useful links: see Associations and Regulatory Organizations.

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See the Registration & Renewal section of this website.

Located in the Registrant’s Handbook, Tab 12, the Regulation Assessment is designed to ensure that registrants have knowledge and understanding of the legislative framework for dental hygiene practice in B.C. Applicants for registration must provide a completed Form 1 to verify completion and results of the Assessment. Results are not scrutinized and will not affect the registration application; however, it is recommended that registrants retain the original, completed Assessment for reference and audit purposes.

College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario

College of Registered Dental Hygienists of Alberta

Dental Association of PEI

Manitoba Dental Association

New Brunswick Dental Society

Northwest Territories Professional Licensing

Ordre des Hygienistes Dentaires du Quebec

British Columbia College of Chiropractors

College of Dental Technicians of B.C.

College of Dental Surgeons of B.C.

College of Licensed Practical Nurses of B.C.

College of Massage Therapists of B.C.

College of Occupational Therapists of B.C.

College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C.

College of Midwives of B.C.

College of Naturopathic Physicians of B.C.

College of Pharmacists of B.C.

College of Physical Therapists of B.C.

College of Psychologists of B.C.

College of Registered Nurses of B.C.

College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of B.C.

College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practicioners and Acupuncturists of B.C.

 

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

Residential Care Registration bylaws were approved by the government on February 19, 1999. These bylaws have allowed dental hygienists with additional qualifications to practice in a facility approved by the Board, providing services to clients who have not had a dentist’s examination within the previous year (see 365-Day Rule). The additional qualifications include 3500 hours of clinical practice experience. For further information, refer to Residential Care Regulation.

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

Under Section 14 of the Child, Family and Community Service Act (CFCS Act), a person who has reason to believe a child has been, or is likely to be, physically harmed, sexually abused, or exploited, or in need of protection, has a legal duty to promptly report the matter. The duty to report applies even if the information is privileged or confidential.

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See Access, Spring 08

Revised for 2010
For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Regulation and Bylaws.”

For information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Regulation and Bylaws.”

For B.C. programs, see above (Approved Dental Hygiene Schools).

Please note: Registrant's Handbook revisions are published once yearly. There may be changes to Schedule I that are not reflected in the most recent version. For example, the Canadian College of Dental Health was recently removed, and the Canadian National Institute of Health was recently added.
Current status should be verified by contacting the College directly.

The “Scope of Practice” (Registrant’s Handbook, Tab 6) describes the range of services that may be provided by dental hygienists in B.C., as outlined by Section 4 of the Dental Hygienists Regulation, which states: “Subject to the bylaws, a registrant may assess the status of teeth and adjacent tissues and provide preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene care for teeth and adjacent tissues.”

Under current regulation, dental hygienists may provide services within their scope of practice if a patient has been examined by a dentist within the past 365 days. Any specific and appropriate instructions which may be given by the dentist must be followed; however, if no instructions are given by the dentist regarding sealants, there is no limitation in regulation on the hygienist’s ability to provide them. In practical terms, a consultation between the dentist and hygienist regarding the selection of teeth for fissure sealants can occur easily in a dental office setting. In dental hygiene practices that are outside the dental office setting, however, such consultation is more difficult.

When assessing teeth for fissure sealant application, dental hygienists will use current guidelines including: a risk assessment of the individual for dental caries, a risk assessment of the teeth, and consideration of continuous vs. episodic dental care services. If instructions have not been given by the examining dentist, the dental hygienist should consult him/her to determine the best interests of the client.

The risk assessment for dental caries of the individual should include:

• caries experience (both primary and permanent teeth)
• previous dental care
• use of preventive practices
• family/medical histories
• changes in habits, life circumstances, health status, and medication use

The risk assessment of teeth should include:

• risk for developing dental caries
• level of caries activity
• pit and fissure morphology
• caries pattern
• life expectancy of primary teeth
• status of proximal surfaces
• eruption status
• ability to isolate the tooth
• tooth type and susceptibility

It is also important to consider:

• availability of dental care options
• utilization of dental care (continuous vs. episodic)

Registrants may use Prophy-Jet type air abrasion systems to prepare tooth surfaces. Air abrasion systems that use aluminum oxide may not be used due to their ability to cut hard or soft tissues, even at low p.s.i.’s; therefore, these systems should be avoided. For further information, refer to Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See Access, Fall 05

Refer to Registrant’s Handbook, “Practice Standards.”

College of New Caledonia

Kim Lung
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement

University of the Fraser Valley

Michelle Beattie 
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement

Vancouver Island University

Gnilane Ndiaye
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement

Christina Clint
First-year student with Highest Overall Achievement

Jasmine Jimento
First-year student with Highest Academic Achievement

Jessica Redlick
First-year student with Highest Clinical Proficiency


Camosun College

Kari Moore
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement

Lisa Mann
First-year student with Highest Clinical Proficiency

Rebecca Walsh
First-year student with Highest Academic Achievement

Ayeh Ghorani
First-year student with Highes Overall Achievement


Vancouver Community College

Henrietta Kew
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement


VCC/DHAC Program

Tracey-Ann Latchford
Graduating student with Highest Overall Achievement


UBC

Carrie Krekoski
Gold Medal  (Degree Completion)
 

CDHBC believes that study clubs are a valuable venue for continuing dental hygiene competence and professional development. Registrants can join a study club, or form their own, and receive continuing competency credits for attending sessions or seminars organized by a club. For details, please see: Study Club Information, Study Club Application 2010-2011.

Help Your Child Stay Smoke-Free

Mouth Diseases and Smoking

Smoking and Oral Health

Smoking and Your Body

University of Massachusetts: Basic Skills for Working with Smokers: online continuing education course

According to Section 4 of the Dental Hygienists Regulation, registrants of the CDHBC may “assess the status of teeth and adjacent tissues and provide preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene care….” This includes “removing stain using various methods”. Stain removal is therapeutic in that it contributes to the client's emotional well-being and is a motivational factor for oral hygiene practices.

In order to provide tooth whitening services, a dental hygienist must have “appropriate education” about the whitening process. Appropriate education for tooth whitening would consist of self-study, or formal or continuing education sessions. There are numerous in-office and at-home whitening products available to remove stain, some cured with heat or light and others cured chemically. Dental hygienists are educated to perform all steps of the various methods, except for using lasers.

Because the effects of tooth whitening may impact dental treatment, registrants considering tooth whitening for their clients should consult with the client’s dentist to ensure the procedure fits with the overall treatment plan for the client. Tooth whitening may result in an esthetic imbalance with existing tooth-coloured and porcelain restorations. Consulting with the dentist is in the client’s best interests. For further information, refer to the Registrant’s Handbook, “Interpretation Guidelines.”

See Radiography