Dental hygienists provide dental hygiene assessment/treatment and information related to the prevention of diseases and disorders of the teeth and mouth. They may take dental impressions, remove stains/deposits from teeth, take and develop X-rays, clean and stimulate the gums, and apply fluoride treatment.

Dental therapists carry out limited dental services related to the prevention and treatment of diseases/disorders of the teeth and mouth. They may remove stains and deposits from teeth, take dental impressions and X-rays, fill cavities, extract teeth, and replace portions of tooth crowns.

To be a dental hygienist or dental therapist, you need to complete a one- to three-year college program or approved training.

To be a dental hygienist, you need a one- to three-year college or university program or another approved program in dental hygiene recognized by the governing board within your province or territory.

You must obtain a licence in the province/territory where you'll work.

Most recent entrants have a trade/vocational certificate or community college diploma, and almost 3 in 10 have an undergraduate university degree.