Dental hygienists are enjoying stable careers and great pay as independent practices grow in Canada. Sault Ste. Marie providers are embracing this model, offering flexible scheduling and personalized care. These professionals are not just fixing dental issues but also educating patients on prevention. Catherine Tulloch, a local registered dental hygienist, emphasizes their role in oral health promotion. She runs Lake Superior Dental Hygiene, assessing patients' oral health, removing toxins and plaque, and educating them on plaque formation and proper brushing techniques. The profession requires a two- to three-year diploma or advanced diploma program at community colleges like Sudbury's Cambrian College or North Bay's Canadore College. Graduates must pass an exam and obtain a license from the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario. The pay is attractive, with an average salary of $54.85 per hour in 2025. However, the profession faces a challenge: over a quarter of dental hygienists plan to leave within five years, primarily due to retirement. Tulloch, who has been a dental hygienist for over 30 years, shares her journey. She was inspired by a shop teacher's advice, leading her to a rewarding career. The establishment of independent clinics in 2007 further enhanced the profession's appeal, allowing hygienists like Tulloch, Julie Premo, and Shannon Chevis to set their schedules and provide personalized care. This trend is reflected in the growing number of independent dental hygiene practices across the country. What makes this profession particularly fascinating is the ability to combine a stable career with a passion for health care and patient education. In my opinion, dental hygienists play a crucial role in promoting oral health and should be recognized for their valuable contributions to the healthcare system.
