FAQ's (Dental Hygiene)

Frequently Asked Questions - Dental Hygiene

If you have any questions, please contact Monica Coggin at (807) 475-6260, or [email protected].

What does the designation R.D.H. stand for?

Registered Dental Hygienist-this designation is awarded to all successful graduates from an accredited school who have successfully completed the National Dental Hygiene Board examination and registered with the appropriate provincial licensing authority. In Ontario it is the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario.

What is accreditation and what does it mean to me?

Accreditation simply means that the program has been heavily scrutinized by the Commission for Dental Accreditation of Canada, and has met all requirements. Graduating from an accredited program allows the graduate to write the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board Examination.

Do we work on “real” people?

Yes, initially all techniques are learned on a mannequin head (preclinical) and then the student will begin to work on the public. We have a 24-chair dental clinic on campus and students see clients in a “real” environment.

Can I wear my own uniforms in the clinic?

Yes. Each student must purchase two white lab jackets, with long cuffed sleeves, two uniforms with short sleeves, v-neck, high-waisted pants. White shoes and socks. The uniforms may be any colour you wish.

Do we have to buy all of our instruments at Confederation College?

Yes, the Confederation College Dental Hygiene programs will supply an instrument kit that will be available for purchase. Students must not purchase used instrument kits.

What’s the workload like?

The workload is demanding, and it is recommended that students limit part-time employment.

Where will I get my patient’s from?

The college clinic provides a client database which will be available to the students. Students will be responsible for developing their own client base and will be required to recruit one new client each semester.

Is it advisable to have some computer skills before I come to college?

Computer skills are an asset, however during the process of education a student will develop a variety of technological skills required for successful completion of the program.

What CPR/FIRST AID course do I take?

The Canadian Red Cross and St. John’s Ambulance both offer CPR and First Aid courses. We require a Standard First Aid course, as well as a CPR Basic Life Support/Health Care Provider (BLS/HCP). The course must have a hands-on component. This information must be submitted by August 28, 2023, prior to commencement of classes. Information may be dropped off at the Health Sciences offices, faxed (807) 473-3706, or mailed to:

Confederation College
1450 Nakina Drive
Thunder Bay, ON Canada P7B 0E5
Attention: Alison Macmillan

Why/When do I need a Criminal Record Check?

First year Dental Hygiene students do not require a Criminal Record Check. Students in second and third years will require a Criminal Record Check. Students will be required to go on placement in long-term care facilities, schools and dental offices. These placements require a Criminal Record Check. This information must be submitted by August 28, 2023. Information may be dropped off at the Health and Community Services office, faxed (807) 473-3706 or mailed to:

Confederation College
1450 Nakina Drive
Thunder Bay, ON Canada P7B 0E5
Attention: Alison MacMillan

If this information is not submitted by the above date, it may impede the students ability to complete clinical and field placements.

To be eligible for participation in field placement a student must not have been convicted of any criminal offense for which the student has not yet been pardoned. An unpardoned criminal record will result in the student not being able to participate in the field placement courses and therefore prevent the student from graduating. A recent and valid Criminal Reference Check (CRC) Level 2: Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) is therefore required to enable the student to progress through this program.

Note: Procedures and regulations for obtaining criminal record search documents are controlled by the RCMP and the Government of Canada. These procedures and regulations may change at any time without notification. Confederation College will endeavour to notify students of any changes when they come to our attention.

Note: Any costs associated with acquiring a Criminal Reference Check (CRC) will be the responsibility of the student applicant.

How will I know what to expect when I arrive?

Students will be sent a package of information about the first two days. It is highly recommended that students participate in these sessions as vital information for success at Confederation College will be shared. We are excited about the fall semester and look forward to meeting you!