OTTAWA–The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) says the recent federal budget lacks leadership on oral health issues. A widening income gap in Canada, an increasing rate of early childhood caries and a reduction in retirees’ dental benefits are some of the factors supporting the need for the federal government to take a more proactive role.
Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Ontario have implemented legislation that enables hygienists to establish hygiene practices separate from dental practices. This improved access allows hygienists to provide service in long-term care facilities, community health centres and mobile services in rural and remote areas.
