We, the undersigned, oppose the proposal to allow internationally trained dentists (ITDs) to perform dental hygiene services, such as scaling, without completing an accredited dental hygiene program in Ontario.

Scaling teeth is a controlled act in Ontario, recognized for its potential impact on patient health and safety. Dental hygienists complete specialized education (2-4 yr. Degree programs), rigorous clinical training, and regulatory examinations to ensure they deliver safe, thorough, and evidence-based care to every client.

Allowing individuals without this dedicated training to perform dental hygiene services would:

 • Compromise patient safety and care standards.

 • Undermine the professionalism and integrity of the dental hygiene profession.

 • Erode public trust in the quality of oral healthcare services in Ontario.

We recognize and value the skills internationally trained dentists bring. However, all healthcare providers performing controlled acts must meet Ontario’s regulatory and educational standards — not bypass them.

This is about protecting public health, maintaining strong professional standards, and respecting the specialized role of dental hygienists as essential healthcare providers.

Dental hygienists already work under precarious conditions:

Unpaid downtime and patient cancellations

Unrealistic appointment times compromising patient care

Pressure to use broken or inadequate instruments.

Minimal vacation, no benefits, no job security

We are healthcare providers, not expendable labor.

We call on the Government of Ontario, the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO), and all regulatory bodies and Associations:

 • Reject any proposals that weaken training and certification standards for controlled acts.

 • Uphold patient safety by ensuring only fully qualified dental hygienists perform dental hygiene procedures.

 • Support dental hygienists in delivering the highest level of care to Ontarians.

Dental hygiene is not simply a task — it is a specialized healthcare profession built on skill, science, and trust.

We stand together to protect the future of dental hygiene