Your right to choose independent dental hygiene
You can choose where you receive dental hygiene care in Ontario, including an independent dental hygiene clinic.
How that choice developed
Ontario dental hygiene became a self-regulating profession in 1994. In September 2007, changes to the Dental Hygiene Act, 1991 allowed dental hygienists to initiate scaling and root planing without a dentist’s order when the applicable requirements were met. Independent practice gave people another way to access preventive oral care.
The rules today
In September 2023, the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO) removed its separate administrative authorization requirement for self-initiation. Active Registered Dental Hygienists can initiate scaling and root planing within their professional scope, subject to applicable legislation and contraindications.
A dental hygienist must assess your health history and needs. Some circumstances require medical or dental clearance before treatment. Independent dental hygiene also works alongside dentistry: dental concerns outside the hygienist’s scope need assessment by the appropriate dental professional.
What this means for your visit
You can contact Smart Dental Hygiene directly to discuss your hygiene care. Agnes will explain the assessment, available options and recommended next steps so you can make an informed choice.