The CRDHA is now operating as the ACDH. Some documents may still contain the CRDHA name and logo.
Guidelines are dynamic and intended to reflect current best practices in relation to specific areas of dental hygiene. The College’s Guidelines do not describe how to perform dental hygiene services, but rather assist dental hygienists in meeting the Standards of Practice. Guidelines are intended to complement professional decision-making and should be used in conjunction with a dental hygienist's professional judgment.
In some cases, Guidelines have the same force and effect as Standards of Practice and must be complied with. Guidelines that use terminology such as “must” or similar wording mean that compliance with the Guideline is mandatory.
Dental hygienists may engage in advertising activities or have others advertise on their behalf. These guidelines assist dental hygienists in meeting requirements in the Health Professions Act, the Advertising Standard of Practice and the Code of Ethics.
These guidelines help dental hygienists understand their role in providing and assisting with continuity of care for their patients.
Dental hygienists utilize drugs and natural health products in their practice. These guidelines assist dental hygienists in meeting the College’s Standards of Practice while administering, recommending, selling, or providing drugs and natural health products.
Every dental hygienist has the duty to report in certain circumstances. These guidelines outline the different circumstances and identify the steps that dental hygienists must consider.
Dental hygienists are responsible for ensuring they bill accurately and fairly. The College cannot provide guidance on setting fees, but these guidelines provide information for billing ethically.
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Guidelines have been developed as a collaboration between the Alberta College of Dental Hygienists, the College of Alberta Dental Assistants, the College of Alberta Denturists, and the College of Dental Technicians of Alberta and have been approved by the Councils of all four Colleges.
The IPC Guidelines went into effect June 1, 2022. Registrants of all the involved colleges are expected to understand and adhere to the guidelines.
IPC Frequently Asked Questions
These guidelines apply to dental hygienists who are authorized to provide nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation. Information detailing monitoring, facilities, equipment, documentation, and personnel requirements enable authorized dental hygienists to safely provide nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation while delivering dental hygiene services.
Guidelines for Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Conscious Sedation
These guidelines build on the information provided in Guidelines for Drugs and Natural Health Products to assist dental hygienists who are authorized to prescribe Schedule 1 drugs to meet the College’s Standards of Practice.
The Health Professions Act defines sexual abuse of and sexual misconduct towards patients and sets penalties for health professionals who participate in this unprofessional conduct. This guideline explores how dental hygienists can conduct themselves in accordance with the Health Professions Act, including listing considerations for interacting with patients and identifying whether dental hygienists can provide care to their spouse or partner.
Guidelines for Preventing Sexual Abuse of and Sexual Misconduct Towards Patients
Dental hygienists create professional and therapeutic relationships with their patients by maintaining professional boundaries. These guidelines discuss the dental hygienist/patient relationship and identify situations that may compromise professional boundaries.