Key Takeaway
- Independent dental hygienists and dentists have different scopes of practice.
- Depending on the treatment you need, an independent dental hygienist may need to refer you to a dentist.
- Both independent dental hygienists and dentists are required to complete an assessment and/or diagnosis before providing dental care. Your dental plan may not reimburse you for both assessments.
On this page
You may be interested in getting dental care from one of many independent dental hygiene clinics opening across Ontario. Before booking your appointment, it’s important to understand the differences and potential outcomes when visiting an independent dental hygiene clinic versus a dental practice.
What is an independent dental hygiene clinic?
In an independent clinic, a dental hygienist must limit their assessment of your condition and develop a treatment plan within their scope of practice. They can provide a wide range of dental services—including cleanings, polishings, and fluoride treatments—and can assess the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. However, dental hygienists cannot communicate a formal diagnosis; only a dentist can diagnose dental diseases or disorders.
A dental hygienist’s assessment may result in a care plan requiring a referral to a dentist and/or dental specialist. For example, if your dental hygienist spots a crack in your tooth, they will refer you to a dentist to get it formally diagnosed and treated. A dentist’s scope of practice is broader, so their assessment is often more comprehensive. (View the controlled acts section for more details on the different scopes of practice for dental hygienists and dentists.)
How do dental plans handle reimbursement?
When you get care from an independent dental hygienist, know what and how much your dental plan will reimburse you for an assessment. Almost all dental plans limit the number of examinations and/or assessments you’re covered for. Independent dental hygienists and dentists must perform an assessment before providing any treatment, and both will likely charge you a fee for that. When an assessment is performed by an independent dental hygienist and a second assessment (or examination) by a dentist is required, many dental plans will only cover the first assessment and may not reimburse you for both.
What “controlled acts” are dental hygienists and dentists allowed to perform?
It is important that you understand the different scopes of practice offered by an independent dental hygienist and a dentist. You can choose your oral health care provider; just ensure you make an informed decision.
The Dental Hygiene Act and the Dentistry Act set out which “controlled acts” dental hygienists and dentists, respectively, are authorized to perform in Ontario.
Dental hygienists are authorized to perform three specific controlled acts:
- Scaling teeth and root planing, including curetting surrounding tissue, e.g., removing plaque, tartar and stains from tooth services above and below the gum line
- Orthodontic and restorative procedures
- Prescribing, dispensing, compounding (mixing) or selling a drug designated in the regulations.
Dentists are authorized to perform a wide range of controlled acts, including but not limited to:
- Diagnosing oral disease or disorders
- Performing surgical procedures on the teeth, gums, and other oral tissues
- Prescribing medications
- Administering anesthesia
- Providing and/or fitting dental devices, like braces, dentures or mouthguards, to protect teeth and improve their function
Visiting a dental office
When you visit a dental practice, you’ll meet a team of oral health professionals who work together to give you comprehensive care and treatment.