Dental Hygienist

Description and Responsibilities

Drawing from general curriculum, dental hygienists establish specific educational and preventive programs. They help with the prevention of diseases of the teeth and gums by educating patients on proper hygiene care to maintain good oral health. Dental hygienists also clean and polish teeth. They may as well assist dentists in their work.

Source: Comité patronal de négociation du secteur de la santé et des services sociaux  (in French only)

Education and Training Requirements

Dental hygiene training programs are offered in most regions of Québec.

Dental hygienists must be members of the Ordre des hygiénistes dentaires du Québec (in French only).

Required Interests, Skills and Personality Type

• Must be a good communicator and listener
• Must be thorough and detail-oriented
• Must enjoy working in a team with colleagues and other professionals
• Must have excellent initiative and be able to work autonomously
• Must know how to observe and analyze situations

Personality Type (RIASEC)

IAR

• I - Prefers studying, understanding and solving problems
• A - Prefers completing creative tasks
• R - Prefers practical work and handling tools

Work Environment

Dental hygienists work in healthcare facilities, university hospital centres and academic institutions (in French only), as well as in local community services centres (CLSCs) (in French only).

Useful Links

• Canadian Dental Hygienists Association 
• Ordre des hygiénistes dentaires du Québec  (in French only)