The Dental Hygiene program prepares student to assume a position as a dental hygienist capable of providing preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services utilising the Dental Hygiene Process. In all rolls and practice settings, the dental hygienist works with the client and community using a problem - solving framework, basing all decisions, judgements, and interventions on all current dental hygiene research and theory. The program will prepare the students for the legal and ethical responsibilities of a dental hygienist and with a basic understanding of business practices related to self employment.

As a dental hygienist, graduates work independently, interdependently and collaboratively with health professionals in a variety of practice settings, including private dental practices, community clinics, public health programs, institutions and long tern care facilities. Graduates can choose to work as an employee or be self-employed.

Common Job Titles:

- Dental Hygienist

Employment for this occupation is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. The demand for Dental Hygienist depends on the number of people seeking dental care and the frequency of their visits. Population growth and greater retention of natural teeth by older people will increase demand for dental services. Many opportunities are for entry-level positions offering on-the-job training. An increased use of computers for recording and accessing patient information will lead to new computer training needs for dental assistants. The need for continuous learning will remain strong as new procedures, techniques and materials are introduced.

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma at or above the general level, or equivalent
• Grade 12 English
• Grade 12 Mathematics for technology
• Grade 12 Biology
• Grade 12 Chemistry

Immigration Prospects for Canada/USA

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