March 25, 2025 | British Columbia

When you sit in a dental chair, two professionals are likely caring for you: a dental hygienist and a dental assistant. Though their roles may seem similar, their responsibilities, education paths, and career trajectories are worlds apart.

For Canadians considering a career in oral healthcare or patients curious about who’s behind their care this guide breaks down the key differences between these vital roles, explores accredited training programs, and helps you decide which path aligns with your goals. 

Understanding the Backbone of Dental Care 

Dental hygienists and dental assistants are essential to every dental clinic, working together to ensure patients receive comprehensive care, however, their day-to-day tasks, educational requirements, and scopes of practice vary significantly.  
 
In Canada, demand for these professions is rising steadily, fueled by an aging population and a growing emphasis on preventive dentistry. Whether you're exploring a career in oral healthcare or simply curious about the professionals behind your care, understanding the differences between these roles is essential. For students, this knowledge helps clarify career paths; for patients, it fosters confidence in the expertise supporting their smiles. 

The Role of Dental Hygienist: The Preventive Care Expert 

Dental hygienists are licensed professionals focused on preventive oral care and patient education. In traditional dental offices, they work closely with dentists but often operate with greater autonomy, in all provinces, legislation allows dental hygienists to provide dental hygiene care without the presence of a dentist. It also allows them to own and operate their own businesses or to contract out their services.  

As business owners, independent dental hygienists may employ or share space with other dental hygienists, dentists, denturists, dental assistants, physiotherapists, and massage therapists to meet their clients’ needs. 
 

Key Responsibilities: 
 

• Perform dental cleanings (scaling, root planning). 
• Conduct oral health assessments (e.g., gum disease screenings, oral cancer checks). 
• Apply preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants. 
• Educate patients on brushing, flossing, and nutrition. 
• Take and develop dental X-rays. 
• Administer local anesthesia (in most provinces). 

Education and Certification 

To become a dental hygienist in Canada: 
 

Complete an Accredited Program: Dental hygienists must successfully complete a dental hygiene diploma or bachelor program, approved by Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC). The curriculum focuses on oral and clinical science, with an emphasis on health promotion and preventive, motivational and communication strategies. 
 

Pass National and Provincial Exams: Clear the National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE) exam, some may need provincial jurisprudence exams. 
 

Provincial or Territorial Registration: Examples in British Columbia, you would register with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP), in Alberta, you must register with the Alberta College of Dental Hygienists (ACDH).  

Career Outlook and Salary 
 

• Demand: Over the next three years from 2024 with Job Bank Canada predicting "Moderate" to "good" opportunities nationwide. 
• Salary: Median wage is $43.00/hour* in Canada, up to $57.50/hour*.  
• Work Settings: Private clinics, public health agencies, schools, remote communities or independent practices. 

The Role of Dental Assistant: The Clinic Support Specialist 

Dental assistants are versatile team players who handle both clinical and administrative tasks. They work under the direct supervision of dentists and hygienists, ensuring smooth clinic operations. 
 

Key Responsibilities: 
 

• Prepare treatment rooms and sterilize instruments. 
• Assist dentists during procedures (e.g., passing tools, suctioning). 
• Take and process dental X-rays. 
• Manage patient records and appointments. 
• Educate patients on post-treatment care. 

Bonus Read: What Does a Dental Assistant Do? 

 
Education and Certification 

To become a certified dental assistant (CDA) in Canada: 
 

Complete an Accredited Diploma Program: Enroll in a 55-week Dental Assisting Diploma Program certified by the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP), such as the one offered at CDI College. These programs blend classroom learning with 615 hours of clinical practice, including hands-on training and real-world placements. 
 

Curriculum highlights: Chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, and office administration. 
 

Pass the NDAEB Exam: The National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam is mandatory for licensure. Since March 2022, CDI College’s Dental Assisting students in BC have achieved and maintained an incredible 99.7% pass rate on the NDAEB exam!** 
 

Provincial Registration: Register with your provincial regulatory body, e.g., BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) in British Columbia, or Ontario Dental Assistants Association (ODAA) in Ontario. Additional certifications may be required for intra-oral duties in some provinces. 

Career Outlook and Salary 
 

• Demand: High, with job bank Canada statistic showing Dental Assistants from “Moderate” to “Very Good” over next three years. 
• Salary: Median wage in Canada is $26.50/hour***, with opportunities for growth to $34.50/hour***. 

Key Difference: Dental Hygienists vs. Assistants 

Frequently Asked Questions 
 

1. Can a dental assistant become a hygienist? 
   Yes! Many assistants pursue bridging programs to become hygienists, though additional education is required. 
    
2. Which role has better job security? 
   Both are stable, but hygienists have an edge due to Canada’s growing focus on preventive care. 
    
3. Are there part-time opportunities? 
   Both roles offer flexibility, but assistants often find more entry-level part-time positions. 
    

Your Path to a Rewarding Career: Start as a Dental Assistant  

If you’re eager to launch your career quickly while keeping doors open for future growth, starting as a dental assistant offers a strategic entry point. Many professionals begin here to gain hands-on experience, build foundational skills, and later advance to roles like dental hygienist—or even clinic management. 

Bonus Read: How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Assistant? 

How to Start with Dental Assisting? 

Fast Entry: CDI College’s 55-week Dental Assistant Diploma allows you to enter the workforce in just over a year. 
 

Hands-On Training: The program includes 615 hours of clinical practice, ensuring you are job-ready upon graduation. 
 

Career Flexibility: Use your assistant role as a steppingstone while deciding if you want to specialize, advance, or explore other healthcare fields. 

Bonus Read: How Do I Become a Dental Assistant in Canada? 

Why Choose CDI College’s Dental Assistant Diploma? 

For Canadians in British Columbia and beyond, CDI College stands out as a top choice for launching a dental assisting career. Here’s why: 
 

Structured Timeline: Complete your diploma in 55 weeks, including clinical hours and NDAEB exam prep. 
 

Licensure: The program meets provincial requirements, preparing you for certification with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP). 
 

Comprehensive Training: Master radiography, sterilization, chairside assisting, and office administration. 
 

Job Placement Support: CDI’s career services team helps with resumes, interviews, and clinic partnerships.  

Whether you envision yourself as a preventive care leader or a clinic operations expert, Canada’s oral healthcare field offers pathways to suit your goals. Starting as a dental assistant especially through a reputable program like CDI College’s 55-week Diploma provides a practical, efficient way to enter the workforce while keeping future opportunities wide open. 
 

Your journey in oral healthcare starts now, you’ll play a vital role in keeping Canadians smiling! 

  
* Dental Hygienist in Canada | Wages - Job Bank 2024 
** NDAEB Exam Report, Feb 2025 
*** Dental Assistant in Canada | Wages - Job Bank 2024