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This section contains a series of guidelines that are intended to explain aspects of the Dental Hygienists Regulation and Scope of Practice. The College recognizes that some contain language previously used under the former regulation and a review is currently underway. These guidelines remain in place at this time; however, they need to be applied in the context of the new Dental Hygienists Regulation and the Bylaws.
Readers are welcome to contact us if they have questions about the application of these Interpretation Guidelines in the interim time.
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for dental hygienists on antibiotic premedication for clients with specific cardiac conditions.
Current medical practice indicates that dental clients who are at risk for infective endocarditis (IE) should have prophylactic antibiotic premedication prior to specific dental procedures, including procedures regularly performed by dental hygienists during the assessment, implementation and evaluation phases of clinical client care. Regimens updated and published by the American Heart Association (2021) and the American College of Cardiology Foundation (2020) are adopted as the standard for prophylactic antibiotic premedication within this interpretation guideline.
Registrants are encouraged to visit the following websites for current guidelines on antibiotic premedication:
The American Heart Association: www.americanheart.org
The American College of Cardiology: www.acc.org
The Canadian Dental Association: www.cda-adc.ca
The American Dental Association: www.ada.org
Following consideration of a client’s medical status and any co-morbidities that may increase their risk of infection, a client’s cardiologist, physician, or dentist may prescribe prophylactic antibiotic premedication for clients with heart conditions prior to specific dental procedures.
Current indications for prophylactic antibiotics, prior to dental/dental hygiene procedures that involve manipulation of gingival tissue or the periapical region of teeth, and/or perforation of the oral mucosa, are for clients with a history of any of the following:1-5
| Antibiotic Prophylactic Indications:1-5 | |
| Indications: | Indications Examples: |
| Prosthetic cardiac valves | Including transcatheter-implanted prostheses |
| Prosthetic material used for cardiac valve repair | Such as annuloplasty, rings, and clips |
| Left ventricular assist devices or implantable heart | |
| Previous, relapse, or recurrent infective endocarditis | |
| Cardiac transplant recipients who develop cardiac valvulopathy | |
| Specific congenital (present from birth) heart conditions: |
(*Prophylaxis is reasonable because endothelialization of prosthetic material occurs within 6 months after the complete repair of a congenital heart defect.) |
Current contra-indications for prophylactic antibiotics include a client with a history of:
When prophylactic antibiotics are recommended, the following dental hygiene procedures are considered to have the greatest potential to produce a bacteremia (i.e., procedures which manipulate the gingival tissues and which may cause bleeding and the presence of viable bacteria in the blood):
Prophylactic antibiotics are not recommended for the following dental hygiene procedures:
Timing of Antibiotic Administration
An antibiotic for prophylaxis of a cardiac condition should be administered in a single dose before the procedure. If the dosage of antibiotic is inadvertently not administered before the procedure, the dosage may be administered up to 2 hours after the procedure. However, administration of the dosage after the procedure should be considered only when the client did not receive the pre-procedure dose.2 Therefore, this protocol should be reserved for extenuating situations and should not be used simply for the convenience of the office or the dental hygienist. In addition, it is recommended that there be at least 10 days between appointments for those clients who require prophylactic antibiotics to decrease the risk of antibiotic resistance. 2, 6
Clients Already Receiving Antibiotics
The 2007 and 2021 guidelines state that if the client is already taking an antibiotic that is recommended for IE for another reason, rather than increasing the dose, an antibiotic from a different class should be prescribed.2, 4
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POLICY
In order to meet BCCOHP Practice Standards, dental hygienists are required to use current knowledge in their practice and to assess the client to determine whether special precautions are necessary. Ideally dental hygienists will consult with the client’s cardiologist to determine the need for antibiotic prophylaxis prior to invasive dental hygiene procedures. If the dental hygienist is unable to consult with the cardiologist, a collaborative approach with the client’s physician or dentist should take place to determine the client’s need. Should the physician or dentist elect to take responsibility for making this determination, the direction provided must be clearly documented in the client’s chart.
If a determination recommending antibiotic prophylaxis is made in a dental office setting, it is recommended that a letter be provided to the client to take to their treating physician informing them of the prophylactic coverage and directions that were provided.
It is recommended that the dental hygiene professional encourage clients who are at high risk for developing infective endocarditis to maintain optimal oral health to prevent bacterial seeding. This is through oral hygiene instruction to ensure effective home oral self-care and through regular professional dental hygiene maintenance appointments. Dental hygiene appointments must also ensure strict infection prevention and control measures are upheld.
REFERENCES
Added to Handbook: February 2010
Updated: November 2022
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
PURPOSE
To provide guidelines on the use of chlorhexidine by dental hygienists.
Chlorhexidine has been shown to be an effective anti-plaque and anti‑gingivitis chemotherapeutic agent. Topical oral preparations of therapeutic chlorhexidine and chlorhexidine salts are listed on the federal Food and Drugs Act Prescription Drug List. The federal Act is enacted through provincial legislation. The BC legislation is the Drug Schedules Regulation to the Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act of British Columbia, which lists chlorhexidine as a “Schedule I – Prescription” drug.
Schedule I drugs require a prescription for sale and are provided to the public by a pharmacist following the diagnosis and professional intervention of a “practitioner”. Specific practitioners who may prescribe a Schedule I drug for sale are defined by provincial legislation. This includes dentists and physicians.
Chlorhexidine is routinely used in dental settings as a pre-procedural rinse, for irrigation, and/or for topical application. Chlorhexidine oral rinses may be provided by a dental office to a client for home use as a mouth rinse or for site specific irrigation. Chlorhexidine oral rinses may also be purchased by clients for home use.
A written prescription by a dentist or physician is required for the sale of chlorhexidine to a client by a pharmacy. A prescription note must be recorded in the client’s record.
In-office use of chlorhexidine by dental hygienists must be supported by a prescription or annotation documented in the client’s chart by the prescriber. Documentation for the prescribed use of chlorhexidine should specify whether it is intended for a single appointment or for ongoing appointments (e.g. as a pre-procedural rinse). Following a prescription, the use of chlorhexidine products in-office by a dental hygienist must be documented in the client’s chart including product, concentration, and volume. Any chlorhexidine preparations given to a client for home use must also follow a documented prescription.
If the ability to obtain a prescription for in-office use of chlorhexidine poses a barrier, dental hygienists should select appropriate alternative products that are supported by evidence of effectiveness.
Dental hygienists are expected to provide client-centered care based on each client’s individual needs. Client-centered care includes planning interventions and selecting products for use that are evidence-based.
REFERENCES
Government of British Columbia. Drug Schedules Regulation To The Pharmacy Operations And Drug Scheduling Act Of British Columbia. Victoria: Ministry of Health; 2013. Available from: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/9_98
Government of Canada. Food and Drugs Act. Ottawa: Justice Laws Website; 2013. Available from: http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-27/page-1.html
Government of Canada. Prescription Drug List. Ottawa: Health Canada; 2013 Dec 19. Available from: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodpharma/pdl-ord/index-eng.php
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: May 2019
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on consent of minors to dental hygiene treatment.
Dental hygiene falls within the definition of “health care” in s. 17 of the Infants Act, RSBC 1996, c. 223 which encompasses “anything that is done for a therapeutic, preventive, palliative, diagnostic, cosmetic or other health related purpose”. There is no statutory minimum age limit for child or youth clients to be able to consent to dental hygiene care in B.C.. Under section 17 of the Infants Act, a child under the age of 19 may consent directly to health care treatment, without parental/guardian consent, if:
the health care provider has made reasonable efforts to determine and has concluded that the proposed treatment is in the minor’s best interest, and
the health care provider has explained to the minor and is satisfied that the minor understands the nature and consequences and the reasonably foreseeable benefits and risks of the health care proposed.
While minors are a vulnerable group in society, some may be more vulnerable than others, particularly those who have experienced childhood trauma or abuse or whose family members have experienced historic abuse or trauma (e.g. residential school survivors). Minors who have had such experiences or have family members who have had such experiences may find it difficult to trust health care providers. When determining a minor’s capacity to provide consent to treatment, it is important to be aware of and sensitive to these issues and to consider whether the minor has any heightened anxiety which may adversely affect their ability to provide consent. The dental hygienist can demonstrate sensitivity in these circumstances by speaking gently, showing concern for their anxiety, allowing time for discussion and questions from the minor, and conveying that they are welcome to bring a family member or support person to appointments.
When obtaining consent from a minor, the dental hygienist should discuss the proposed treatment using plain language at a level that the client can understand. The dental hygienist should clearly explain the nature of the proposed treatment, the associated risks and benefits, and any reasonably foreseeable potential consequences of not proceeding with the proposed treatment. Dental hygienists must use their professional judgment in assessing whether a minor is capable of consenting to care while having regard for such factors as their level of maturity, ability to ask questions and understand answers, and comfort with making treatment decisions.
The dental hygienist should record a summary of the discussion with the minor regarding consent in the clinical record and include the following information:
the proposed treatment was determined to be in the minor’s best interest
the proposed treatment was explained at a level that the client could understand
the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment, and any reasonably foreseeable consequences associated with the treatment options were discussed
If any of these criteria are not met, and if the proposed treatment is not an emergency, health care cannot be provided without parental/guardian consent.
Government of British Columbia. Infants act. Victoria: Queen’s Printer; 2013. Available from: http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/00_96223_01
BCCOHP Code of Ethics (for Dental Hygienists). Victoria: British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: May 2019
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To clarify the dental hygienist’s role in initiating consultations or client referrals to dentists, dental specialists, and other health professionals.
The BCCOHP Practice Standards indicate the registrant’s responsibility for professional collaboration, when appropriate, throughout the process of dental hygiene care. Practice Standard 5.2 discusses referrals in relation to the planning phase of care: “when indicated, dental hygienists must consult with the client’s dentist, and may consult with other applicable health care providers, in order to integrate the plan for dental hygiene services into the client’s total health care plan.” Practice Standard 7.2 incorporates referrals based on the evaluation phase of dental hygiene care: “dental hygienists must, if indicated, recommend referral to dental and other applicable health professional(s).”
There are many situations in which a dental hygienist needs to collaborate with other health professionals and initiate consultations and referrals for client care. These may include concerns about a client’s systemic health, for example:
consulting with a client’s cardiologist regarding antibiotic prophylaxis,
referring to a dietitian for nutritional counseling,
referring to a physician regarding high blood pressure or management of diabetes
referring Indigenous clients to Indigenous health service providers.
Other reasons for referral may relate to other medical-dental concerns (e.g., extra-oral or intra-oral pathologies, suspected caries, or progression of periodontal disease).
In British Columbia, it is the responsibility of a dental hygienist to develop and implement a process for consultation and/or referral with other health professionals in order to ensure the provision of safe and ethical dental hygiene care to the public. Best practice is for any consultations or referrals initiated by dental hygienists to be conveyed to the client and/or the other health professional in writing. Additionally, client informed consent needs to be obtained and any consultations or referrals initiated need to be documented in the client’s chart, as part of the legal record of care.
In order to act in the client’s best interest, the dental hygienist should establish a collaborative approach with the client’s dentist to mutually assess the need for further care from an appropriate dental specialist or other health care professional(s). Dental hygienists are encouraged to consider continuing competency courses on the identification of oral pathologies, so that they can communicate in a knowledgeable and collegial manner.
Bowen D, Pieren, J. Darby and Walsh. Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice. 5th ed. Maryland Heights: Elsevier; 2020.
Practice Standards and Practice Standard Policies (for Dental Hygienists). Victoria: British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals; 2021.
Scope of Practice (for Dental Hygienists). Victoria: British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals; 2021.
Added to Interpretation Guidelines: June 2005
Updated: October 2021
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on the use of controlled-release chemotherapeutic agents by dental hygienists.
The aim of incorporating locally delivered antimicrobial agents is to control gingivitis and periodontitis by decreasing the bacterial load and pathogenic potential. The use of dentifrices, mouth rinses and irrigation for the treatment of periodontitis is impaired by the inability of these delivery systems to reach the base of periodontal pockets and/or maintain agents for sufficient duration at requisite concentrations, which is why locally delivered agents were introduced. Chemotherapeutics alone are unlikely to be effective in the presence of subgingival calculus, underscoring the importance of subgingival mechanical debridement.
The only clinically efficacious means of administering antimicrobial agents for the treatment of periodontal disease are by systemic administration and controlled release devices. The local delivery of controlled release antimicrobials provides a means of professionally administering chemotherapeutic agents directly into the periodontal pocket in order to provide slow release of the drug. With the direct placement of the drug in the periodontal pocket, the chance of drug resistance is decreased. The goal of chemotherapy is to alter the periodontal flora or inhibit the host response in such a way that the periodontal status improves. Doxycycline hyclate gel (Atridox®), Minocycline HCl microspheres (Arestin®), and Chlorhexidine gluconate chip (PerioChip®) are examples of such devices.
Results of present studies suggest that most local delivery systems used in conjunction with subgingival debridement appear to be capable of reducing probing depths and achieving modest gains in clinical attachment.
The delivery of subgingival, controlled-release chemotherapeutic delivery systems is within the dental hygiene scope of practice, provided that appropriate education is obtained, along with consideration for case selection and precautions and contraindications related to the product being used. For all products, the manufacturer’s directions need to be followed.
The prescription of a chemotherapeutic agent is not within the dental hygiene scope of practice. Documentation of the prescription from the client’s dentist must be included in the client’s chart.
The dental hygienist’s decision to use locally delivered antimicrobials should be based upon consideration of the client’s medical and dental history, clinical assessment findings, scientific evidence, and client preferences.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2005
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To enhance awareness of cultural safety and humility, and assist dental hygienists in applying these concepts in their practice settings.
It is respectfully acknowledged that prior to the European settlement in and colonization of the territory now known as Canada, populations known as Indigenous were thriving and living autonomously under their own governance, having lived on this land since time immemorial. Section 35 of the Constitution Act of Canada 1982 defines an “Aboriginal” (Indigenous) person in Canada as identifying with one or more of three distinct cultural groups: First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. It is recognized that Canada’s history of colonization continues to have profound impacts on Indigenous peoples and their communities and has created vulnerabilities in social determinants of health that have spanned generations. It is also acknowledged that Indigenous individuals and communities are disproportionately subject to discrimination and trauma in various ways, and societal efforts towards reconciliation are ongoing.
In March 2017 the “Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility in the Regulation of Health Professionals Serving First Nations and Aboriginal People in BC” was signed by the BC Ministry of Health, the First Nations Health Authority and the 23 provincial health regulators. This declaration pledged a commitment to advancing cultural safety and humility among all regulated health professionals in BC.
Cultural humility focuses on delivering care in a culturally safe manner that respects Indigenous clients’ role as decision makers regarding their own care. [2] By virtue of their education and training, health care providers are generally in a position of power relative to their clients in terms of knowledge of the discipline and the delivery of care. While this power imbalance broadly exists between health care providers and clients, some groups are more vulnerable than others. A particularly unjust power imbalance can exist between a health care provider and a client of Indigenous ancestry based on differences in cultural values and experiences, as well as the impacts of colonization. Historic and ongoing social determinants of health caused by colonization and ongoing colonialism can make it further difficult for Indigenous populations to access healthcare services in equity to non-Indigenous Canadians. The practice of cultural humility and safety in health care positively contributes to reducing unjust power imbalances and ensuring that each client receives health care free from indirect or unintentional discrimination.
Cultural safety includes but is not limited to awareness of the different world views between cultures and sensitivity to how cultural differences are perceived.[1] It has been identified by the First Nations Health Authority as “an outcome based on respectful engagement that recognizes and strives to address power imbalances inherent in the healthcare system”. [1] In addition to addressing power imbalances, providing culturally safe care “results in an environment free of racism and discrimination, where people feel safe when receiving health care”.[1] Key elements of cultural safety identified by the First Nations Health Authority include [2]:
Cultural humility focuses on delivering care in a culturally safe manner that respects Indigenous clients’ role as decision makers regarding their own care.[2] Cultural humility has been identified by the First Nations Health Authority as “a process of self-reflection to understand personal and systemic conditioned biases, and to develop and maintain respectful processes and relationships based on mutual trust. Cultural humility involves humbly acknowledging oneself as a life-long learner when it comes to understanding another’s experience”.
It is important to recognize that some Indigenous people and communities have suffered past traumatic experiences specifically in conjunction with the delivery of health services, which may adversely impact their ability to form trusting relationships with health professionals.
Dental hygienists can foster cultural safety in their practices by engaging in respectful dialogue with clients and taking the time to listen and learn about their clients’ backgrounds in order to understand how it may potentially impact care delivery. For some clients it may be appropriate to ask whether they would like to involve a family member, community support person, or another trusted health professional in discussions about their dental hygiene diagnosis, proposed care, consent (or informed refusal to consent), and/or referrals.
Dental hygienists have an ethical responsibility to practice in a manner that is culturally safe for the diverse clients in their care. This is underpinned in a number of principles contained in the BCCOHP Code of Ethics, including that dental hygienists shall:
Examples of ways in which dental hygienists can enhance their knowledge and practice of cultural safety and humility include:
The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals gratefully acknowledges the First Nations Health Authority for reviewing this Interpretation Guideline while it was being developed.
* At the time of their existence hospitals in the segregated system were referred to as “Indian hospitals”.
1. Cultural safety and humility: key drivers and ideas for change. Coast Salish Territory – West Vancouver: First Nations Health Authority. Available from:
https://www.fnha.ca/
2. FNHA’s policy statement on cultural safety and humility. Coast Salish Territory – West Vancouver: First Nations Health Authority. Available from:
https://www.fnha.ca/
Added to Interpretation Guidelines: May 2019
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To assist dental hygienists in applying the concept of dental hygiene diagnosis in their practice settings.
A dental hygiene diagnosis clarifies the actual or potential conditions or concerns of a client that can be treated within the dental hygiene scope of practice. These conditions or concerns are identified through an interpretation of the assessment data, and should take the client’s needs, values and beliefs into consideration.
Other terms commonly used for “dental hygiene diagnosis” include “assessment interpretations” and “assessment findings” and would include, but are not limited to, “periodontal status statements” or “caries risk statement” in clinical settings.
There are several practice standards that relate to the dental hygiene diagnosis. These include Practice Standard Policies 4.1, 8.2 and 8.4.
Practice Standard Policy 4.1 requires the dental hygienist to analyze the assessment information and make a dental hygiene diagnosis. This includes interpreting the dental hygiene assessment findings and discussing the implications of the findings with the client or the client’s representative.
Practice Standard Policy 8.2 requires that dental hygienists record accurate details of all dental hygiene care provided including an interpretation of dental hygiene assessment findings or a dental hygiene diagnostic statement using any one of the models described in credible dental hygiene literature.
Practice Standard Policy 8.4 requires dental hygienists to document discussions around pertinent conversations including those related to the client being informed of the dental hygiene diagnosis.
The dental hygienist will analyze and interpret the dental hygiene assessment data in order to formulate a dental hygiene diagnosis. The nature of the dental hygiene diagnosis may vary between practice settings.
In direct clinical practice settings, the dental hygienist would:
In indirect clinical dental hygiene practice settings, the dental hygienist would:
Dental hygienists can only diagnose conditions that are within the dental hygiene scope of practice to treat. Concerns may be identified during the assessment phase that require an appropriate referral, be it to a dentist, dental specialist, physician, or other health care provider. Referrals are not part of the dental hygiene diagnosis but rather are part of the dental hygiene treatment plan. Further information can be found in the Interpretation Guideline titled “Referrals by Dental Hygienists”.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
Note: This policy was developed by the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC.
This policy has been developed to:
Disease transmission from infected health-care workers to clients during exposure-prone procedures (EPPs) has been demonstrated in the literature. While the chance of transmission appears to be small, it is also recognized that dental hygienists perform invasive “exposure-prone procedures” that present the opportunity for the client to be exposed to the health care worker’s blood. The risk of such transmission is diminished substantially through the strict use of Routine Practices for infection prevention and control.
Health Canada’s definition of exposure-prone procedures (EPP) are those during which transmission of HBV, HCV, or HIV from a health care worker (HCW) to client is most likely to occur and include the following:
A registrant who is infected with a BBV:
Should a client be exposed to blood or bodily fluids of the infected registrant, the registrant must:
Requirements for registrants infected with HBV, HCV or HIV are as follows:
A registrant infected with Hepatitis B
If performing non-EPPs an infected registrant can practice so long as they:
If performing EPPs an infected registrant:
If at any time a REGISTRANT’s HBV plasma DNA is above 2000 IU/mL, they must:
If a REGISTRANTS’s HBV plasma DNA is below 2000 IU/mL they must:
A registrant infected with Hepatitis C
If performing non-EPPs an infected REGISTRANT can practice so long as they:
If performing EPPs an infected REGISTRANT:
If at any time an infected REGISTRANT is HCV RNA positive, they must:
When the REGISTRANT has a sustained virologic response (SVR) defined as HCV RNA negativity in serum or plasma following completion of therapy, they may:
A registrant infected with the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
If performing non-EPPs procedures an infected registrant can practice so long as they:
If performing EPPs an infected REGISTRANT:
Dental hygienists are required to protect the health and safety of their clients and this obligation includes preventing the transmission of blood-borne viruses (BBVs) from themselves to their clients. Dental hygienists who perform exposure-prone procedures should be encouraged and supported to undergo testing for BBVs; however the maintenance of confidentiality for registrants must also be respected. Any recommendations for the modification of a registrant’s dental hygiene practice are based on an independent assessment of a registrant and consideration of context, pathogen, viral load, adherence to precautions, and experience and types of procedures provided by the registrant. This policy is intended to balance the rights of clients to be free from the danger of infection and the rights of an infected registrant to privacy and freedom from discrimination.
Portions of this policy have been adapted from the dentist/CDA/dental therapist version of the Blood-Borne Pathogen Policy.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Revised January 2014
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for dental hygienists dismissing clients.
As part of the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of British Columbia (CDHBC) Practice Standards and Code of Ethics, dental hygienists have a responsibility to render competent, appropriate and safe dental hygiene care to clients. However, dental hygienists may encounter situations where their ability to meet practice standards and provide appropriate and competent care is compromised. It may be in the best interest of both parties for the dental hygienist to dismiss the client from their care and refer to another dental health professional. This may be related to the continued non-compliance of the client to recommended treatment, a conflict of personalities, or threatening or inappropriate behavior by a client. In situations like this, the collaborative relationship with the client may break down.
If the dental hygienist determines that appropriate and competent care is not possible due to circumstances beyond their control, they have a duty to inform the client that treatment is not possible, and that alternative services can be arranged. Under the BC Human Rights Code, treatment of a client cannot be terminated on discriminatory grounds such as age, gender, sexual orientation, and religion, to name a few.
It is important for the dental hygienist to ensure that the client’s oral health is not jeopardized in the dismissal process. When possible, and if the client is not refusing treatment, any dental hygiene procedures that are partially complete should be finished.
When a client is dismissed, the dental hygienist must provide the client with a letter outlining:
The dental hygienist should also record the dismissal and reason for it in the client chart and maintain a copy of the dismissal letter. It is optional to provide names of other dental hygiene professionals who may take over care.
It may not always be necessary to formally dismiss a client if it is possible to have another dental hygienist in the same practice assume care with the client’s consent.
As guided through the legacy CDHBC documentation practice standards, it is important to keep accurate and detailed records including any communication and correspondence with the client.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Last updated: January 2014
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidance on the responsibilities of dental hygienists to provide services and care in a culturally safe, humble and non-discriminatory manner.
Section 8 of the British Columbia Human Rights Code, RSBC 1996, c. 210 provides that: “A person must not, without a bona fide and reasonable justification,
deny a person or class of persons any accommodation, service or facility customarily available to the public, or
discriminate against a person or class of persons regarding any accommodation, service or facility customarily available to the public because of the race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or age of that person or class of persons”.
Although the term discrimination is not defined in the Human Rights Code, it has been interpreted by courts to mean “a distinction which, whether intentional or not but based on grounds relating to personal characteristics of the individual or group, has an effect which imposes disadvantages not imposed upon others or which withholds or limits access to advantages available to other members of society. Distinctions based on personal characteristics attributed to an individual solely on the basis of association with a group will rarely escape the charge of discrimination, while those based on an individual’s merits and capacities will rarely be so classed”.[1]
The legacy College of Dental Hygienists of British Columbia (CDHBC) Code of Ethics requires that dental hygienists shall:
Treat clients with respect for their individual needs and values;
The dental hygienist acknowledges the diverse needs of clients and uses a consultative approach to dental hygiene services. The dental hygienist is sensitive to but not prejudiced by factors such as the client’s race, religion, gender, age, ethnic origin, social or marital status, sexual orientation, or health status.
Uphold the principle that the public should have fair and equitable access to dental hygiene services;
The dental hygienist promotes oral health care and access to dental hygiene services for all individuals. The dental hygienist avoids discriminatory practices and behaviours.
Practice the principle of confidentiality;
The dental hygienist provides dental hygiene services with consideration for the privacy of the client and maintains confidentiality of client records. The dental hygienist obtains the permission of the client to consult or confer with other health care professionals.
Dental hygienists have an ethical responsibility to practice in a manner that is culturally safe for the diverse clients in their care. Additional information on this can be found in the Interpretation Guideline titled “Cultural Safety and Humility”.
Dental hygienists are legally and ethically required to provide necessary dental hygiene treatment to all members of the public in a non-discriminatory manner. This means that a dental hygienist may not refuse to provide treatment, or discriminate in the way that they provide treatment, to clients on the basis of any of the protected grounds under s. 8 of the Human Rights Code (i.e. race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or age).
There should be no denial of, or discrimination in relation to, services provided to clients who have dental coverage or benefits through provincial social assistance or other third-party sources.
Dental hygienists should work in collaboration with other professionals such as interpreters and other health care providers, when appropriate, to provide optimal care for the client.
Dental hygienists have a legal and ethical obligation to ensure they have appropriate education and knowledge to safely and effectively care for clients presenting with special needs and/or complex medical conditions. If a dental hygienist does not have the appropriate knowledge to safely care for a client presenting with more complex care needs, they should ensure that the client is provided with a referral to an appropriate oral health care provider. If a referral is required, clear and effective communication is essential to ensure that the client (or their caregiver) understands the nature of the concern necessitating the referral and the reasons for it.
[1] Andrews v. Law Society of British Columbia, [1989] 1 S.C.R. 143
Legacy CDHBC Code of Ethics (for Dental Hygienists). Victoria: Legacy College of Dental Hygienists of British Columbia; 2013.
Government of British Columbia. Human rights Code. Victoria: Queen’s Printer Website; 2013. Available from: http://www.bclaws.ca/Recon/document/ID/freeside/00_96210_01
Added to Handbook: June 2004
Updated: May 2019
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for registrants regarding conditions that may impact their fitness to practice dental hygiene in a competent, safe, and ethical manner.
Fitness to practice refers to a measure of health and wellness as it relates to one’s ability to work as a professional. To be fit to practice means that a registrant is physically and mentally well enough to provide safe, competent, and ethical client care.1
For dental hygiene practice, fitness to practice includes having the consistent ability to:2
meet the physical demands required in the practice setting (e.g. ergonomic considerations),
think critically,
exercise appropriate judgment,
sustain concentration and focus while practicing dental hygiene,
communicate effectively, and
perform skills appropriate to the practice setting (e.g. fine motor skills, use of instruments or equipment, perform calculations such as the maximum dosages for local anaesthetic),
Dental hygienists may not be fit to practice if their capacity to perform these functions is impaired.
Examples of conditions that may impair a dental hygienist’s ability to provide dental hygiene care in a safe and competent manner may include, but are not limited to:
physical injuries (e.g. broken arm/wrist/finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injury)
physical acute and/or chronic medical conditions (e.g. stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, cancer)
physical disabilities (e.g. vision or hearing impairment, mobility impairment)
mental illnesses (e.g. depression, schizophrenia, dementia)
substance abuse (e.g. alcohol, non-prescription drugs)
effects from medication regimes (e.g. narcotic pain control)
Each circumstance is different. Having one of these conditions does not necessarily mean that a dental hygienist will be considered unfit to practice.2 The assessment must be based on such factors as the interplay between the actual condition, the type of work that the dental hygienist is engaged in, the work environment and any duty to accommodate the limitations arising from the condition.3 When a registrant self-discloses a potential fitness issue, this enables the BCCOHP to work with the registrant to determine whether there is any risk to the public and to identify appropriate accommodations and options if necessary.2
If a registrant is unsure whether they are unfit to practice, the registrant should contact the BCCOHP before returning to work. In some circumstances, it may be necessary to provide medical clearance that the registrant is fit to return to dental hygiene practice. However, BCCOHP will work with the registrant to ensure that the transition back to practice takes place as quickly and as safely as possible.
Like all health care professionals, dental hygienists have a responsibility to:1
maintain their health and wellness in order to practice their profession safely, competently and ethically;
regularly assess their own health in the context of their professional responsibilities;
seek appropriate medical help and/or make adjustments to their practice if health difficulties are affecting their ability to perform their professional services;
refrain from practice if a condition is impairing their ability to practice in a safe and competent manner;
advise the College if there are fitness to practice issues which are impairing their ability to practice safely and competently.
BCCOHP recognizes that there may be times when dental hygienists are unable to recognize that they are not fit to practice because of the effects of physical or mental health conditions or addictions. If there is a concern that a dental hygienist has a condition that is likely to impair fitness to practice, this should be reported to the BCCOHP so that appropriate steps can be taken to assess the situation and then work with the registrant.
Additionally, if there is a concern that another regulated health professional might constitute a danger to the public, there is a mandatory duty for registrants to report this risk to the applicable regulatory college under s. 32.2 of the Health Professions Act. Members of the public are also encouraged to report any fitness to practice concerns to the appropriate College.
* Portions of this Interpretation Guideline have been developed by adapting content from other Canadian health regulators. BCCOHP gratefully acknowledges the related guidelines published by the BC College of Nursing Professionals, the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba, and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.
BC College of Nursing Professionals. Fitness to Practice. 2019. Available from: https://www.bccnm.ca/RPN/learning/professional/Pages/fitness_to_practice_selfcare.aspx
College of Licensed Practice Nurses of Manitoba. Practice Direction: Fitness to Practice. September 2017. Available from: https://www.clpnm.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/PD-Fitness-to-Practice.pdf
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta. Assessment and Monitoring of Medical Conditions. June 2014. Available from: https://cpsa.ca/physicians/competence/physician-health-monitoring-program/assessment-and-monitoring-of-medical-conditions/
Added to Interpretation Guidelines: February 2019
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on fluoride application for the prevention of dental caries.
The legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s stance on fluorides, for the prevention of caries, aligns with the current research provided by the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), Health Canada, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Dental Federation (FDI).
The College recognizes the application of fluoride as part of the Dental Hygiene Scope of Practice as defined within the Dental Hygienists Regulation. The regulation states that registrants of the legacy CDHBC may “assess the status of teeth and adjacent tissues and provide preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene care for teeth and adjacent tissues“.
As part of the ADPIE process of care, the dental hygienist should complete a caries risk assessment. This caries risk assessment will assist the registrant in planning the appropriate caries management strategies based on the individual clients’ needs. Caries intervention strategies should align with current literature and involve collaboration with the client’s dentist when appropriate.
The legacy CDHBC recommendations regarding fluoride align with the professional organizations’ guidelines found in the reference list.
Health Canada recommendations for fluoride in drinking water are as follows:
According to the CDA, fluoride supplements should only be considered for high-risk clients who have no exposure to topical or systemic fluoride. Total daily fluoride intake should not exceed 0.05-0.07mg/kg of body weight in order to reduce the risk of fluorosis. The use of supplements before the eruption of the first permanent tooth is generally not recommended.
The supports the use of professionally applied topical fluorides (gels and varnishes) as a preventative measure for clients posing a moderate to high caries risk. The decision for the use of PATFs should be based on the individual client’s caries risk.
The efficacies of in-office one or two-part professionally applied fluoride rinses have not been scientifically proven to reduce caries and therefore their use is not endorsed by the legacy CDHBC.
The use of fluoride foam is not supported by the clinical evidence as being effective in those with a high caries risk; however, there is limited evidence to support the use of fluoride foam in primary teeth and newly erupted first molars. The research indicates that the application time for fluoride foam is more effective when applied for four minutes; therefore one minute applications are not endorsed.
It is the dental hygienists’ responsibility to remain current with the evidence-based research related to PATFs and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines during professional application.
The use of fluoridated mouth rinses in community dental public health school programs should be considered for high-risk populations aged 6 years and over. Recommendations currently indicate 10 ml of 0.2% sodium fluoride (NaF) administered weekly or biweekly.
The recommendation of self-applied fluoride rinses should be considered for home use for those clients who present with a high caries risk. For example, the daily use of 0.05% NaF for those client over 6 years of age.
The use of self-applied fluoride gels, in addition to fluoride dentifrice, is indicated only if warranted after completion of a caries risk assessment. Professional knowledge and judgment is required when choosing a self-applied fluoride gel for a client. This relates to the appropriateness of the fluoride product for the given needs and risk factors of the client, along with consideration of undesirable side effects such as staining, metallic taste, and etching of tooth coloured restorations due to acidity.
Self-applied 0.4% SnF should not be used in children under 6 years of age. The use of a 1.1% NaF gel for children under the age of 6 years should be done only on the direction of a dental hygienist or dentist and supervised by an adult at home in order to minimize the risk of ingestion.
The following guidelines are proposed by the CDA, Health Canada and the FDI for children who use fluoridated dentifrice:
Dental hygienists should follow a client-centered approach and incorporate strategies for oral disease prevention to decrease the caries risk in British Columbia’s aging population. The need for caries prevention and control in this population is required as teeth are being retained for much longer than in previous generations. Consideration must be given to factors affecting the caries rate such as, diet changes, limited dexterity, social factors, decreased salivary flow, and increased risk of root caries.
| Protocol for 1-2 Years Old | |
|---|---|
| Risk Level | Fluoride |
| Low Risk |
|
| Moderate risk |
|
| High risk |
|
| Protocol for 3-5 Years Old | |
|---|---|
| Risk Level | Fluoride |
| Low Risk |
|
| Moderate risk |
|
| High risk |
|
| Protocol for >6 Years and Older | |
|---|---|
| Risk Level | Fluoride |
| Low Risk |
|
| Moderate Risk |
|
| High Risk |
|
| Extreme Risk (high risk plus dry mouth) |
|
Adapted from: American Academy of Paediatric Dentistry: Guidelines on Caries Risk Assessment, 2011 the Journal of Dental Hygiene: The Role of Dental Hygiene in Caries Management: A New Paradigm 2010, and the Canadian Dental Association Position on Use of Fluorides in Caries Prevention 2012.
It is the responsibility of the dental hygienist to promote caries prevention by completing an appropriate caries risk assessment for each client and incorporating appropriate evidence based strategies. Consideration should be given to the most appropriate fluoride delivery system for each client’s needs, along with complementary education relating to diet, oral self care, salivary substitutes and frequent follow up for the prevention and control of dental caries.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: January 2014
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide current guidelines for dental hygiene clients with implanted cardiac devices: cardiac resynchronization therapy devices (CRTs and/or pacemakers) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).
In recent years there have been advances in the technology and the function of implanted cardiac devices. These devices are being implanted to improve the function of the heart, thus improving the quality of life for those suffering with heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony. Those with heart failure may be treated with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) or cardiac resynchronization therapy devices (CRTs). ICD and CRT devices are small computers or microprocessors implanted subcutaneously, most commonly near the clavicle in adults. However, in children the device may also be implanted in the abdomen. Often, one or more of these implanted device’s features can be present in a single or combination type device.
A CRT is a pacemaker that re-synchronizes the heart’s contractions caused by arrhythmias, by essentially “re-tuning” the heart’s electrical conduction. They are most commonly used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate). The pacemaker sends low energy electrical impulses to the heart, via a small insulated lead/wire. This ensures that the heart beats at the appropriate rate so that adequate blood and oxygen are delivered to the brain and other parts of the body.
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are used to treat tachyarrhythmia (abnormally high heart rate). The ICD will continuously monitor the heart rhythm and deliver a low energy electrical pulse if an abnormal heart rate is detected. If this does not restore normal rhythm, newer generation ICD combination units, will then defibrillate the heart by sending higher energy life-saving electrical pulses to stimulate a normal heart rate.
Pacemakers and ICDs are sensitive to strong electromagnetic signals that may temporarily interfere with their function. Most devices are designed with safeguards that include electronic filters or insulators to ensure proper operation and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). The terms shielded or non-shielded are no longer referred to when discussing safeguards incorporated in the implanted devices. ICD’s and pacemakers use the terminology and technology referring to unipolar or bipolar devices. ICDs on the market today are bipolar, whereas pacemakers may be either unipolar or bipolar. ICD’s and pacemakers that are bipolar provide improved protection and filtering against EMI. Unipolar pacemakers provide less safeguards or filtering against EMI.
Most dental hygiene/dental procedures do not involve strong electromagnetic signals and therefore are unlikely to interfere with a pacemaker or ICD. This includes dental radiographs, dental handpieces, ultrasonic instruments (including piezoelectric, magnetostrictive, and sonic), curing lights and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators (TENS), provided the equipment is not placed directly over the implant site.
St. Jude Medical, Biotronik and Metronic are manufactures of commonly implanted pacemakers and ICD’s in North America. Each company states on their respective website that there are no adverse effects when using newer ultrasonic instruments on clients who have the newer bipolar implanted cardiac devices. Older ferromagnetic ultrasonic scalers may cause single beat inhibition on unipolar pacemakers. Information provided from St. Jude Medical and Boston Scientific indicates that this inhibition is not considered clinically significant. However, Boston Scientific recommends caution when using ultrasonic scalers, and discontinuing use in the event that a client with an implanted cardiac device feels lightheaded or experiences an irregular heartbeat.
It was formerly thought that additional protection for a client with a pacemaker or ICD could be achieved by covering the client with a lead apron, such as an apron used for protection when exposing radiographs. However, while consulting with Boston Scientific, information provided clarified the fact that covering pacemakers and ICD’s with a lead apron offers protection from ionizing radiation only and will not provide protection against EMI.
Dentsply, the manufacturer of the Cavitron® magnetostrictive power scaler, provides warnings in each service manual that accompanies all Cavitron® units. Examples of this are the Dentsply Cavitron® SPS™ and the Cavitron® Jet Plus™. Warnings indicate that the unit cords should be kept 6-9 inches away from the implanted cardiac device and the device leads.
Clients are often provided with a device identification card. This card identifies the model number, manufacturer of the device, date the device was implanted and medical contacts. This information will assist in identifying any contraindications for proceeding with dental hygiene treatment.
If a client reports having a pacemaker, or any other implanted cardiac device, dental hygienists need to recognize that the presence of this device indicates a medically compromised heart condition that could require treatment modifications, including stress reduction protocols. A thorough health history should be completed to obtain information provided on the ICD identification card along with the reason for the placement of the ICD. This will assist in informing the dental hygiene process of care.
Magnetostrictive ultrasonic instruments are not contraindicated for use on clients with an ICD or bipolar pacemaker. However, caution should always be given to ensure ultrasonic
cords are kept a minimum of 6 inches away from the implanted device. If interference with the implanted device occurs, use of the ultrasonic unit should be discontinued. Once use is discontinued the implanted device should return to normal function. Additionally, covering unshielded pacemakers with a lead apron will not offer additional protection from EMI.
Magnetostrictive (Cavitron®) instruments may affect unipolar pacemakers, thus contraindicating their use. If the use of a magnetostrictive ultrasonic is prohibited, a sonic or piezoelectric instrument may be used as an adjunct to hand debridement. If uncertain of any contradictions when using an ultrasonic scaler, the manufacturer of the implanted cardiac device should be contacted to determine compatibility or possible contraindications.
Antibiotic prophylaxis is NOT recommended for cardiac pacemakers (intravascular and epicardial) or implanted cardioverter defibrillators.
In the event of a cardiovascular emergency, for a client with an ICD or CRT, there may be the possibility that the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) may be required. The following considerations should be kept in mind:
New technologies and the rate of replacement (every 6-9 years for some ICD’s and CRT) suggest frequent review of the implanted cardiac devices.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on informed refusal to consent to dental hygiene care or aspects of dental hygiene care.
Section 6 of the Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act states that specific criteria should exist in order for a client to give informed consent or refusal to treatment as follows:
The Health Care (Consent) and Care Faculty (Admission) Act provides further information on the client’s rights to decline proposed treatments. Section 4 of the Act states that:
The law upholds an individual’s right to refuse treatment except when the choice goes against provincial law or threatens the well-being of others. In addition to the criteria above, the following points should be considered:
Refusal to consent to a particular treatment should be reviewed periodically in a friendly and helpful manner. This information should be documented in the client’s record, dated, and initialed by the dental hygienist.
The legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s Code of Ethics and Practice Standards (for Dental Hygienists) state that dental hygienists must respect the client’s right to informed refusal for a proposed procedure and subsequently must document this informed refusal to consent in the client’s record. Informed refusal to consent follows the ethical principle of a client’s right to autonomy as it is ultimately the client’s decision to make an informed choice on any treatments or procedures related to their oral healthcare options.
If a client refuses to consent to any aspects of clinical dental hygiene care, the dental hygienist must ensure that the client or their representative fully understands the treatment or process being recommended and the likely consequences of refusing the treatment at this time, and over time.
All client questions must be answered. The dental hygienist must document the specific refusal and date in the client’s record, and initial the entry. An interpreter must be used if there is any chance that the client may not fully understand the choice they are making. Refusal to consent should be reviewed regularly; the record entry should include the dental hygienists initials and the date.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for laser use in periodontal therapy by dental hygienists.
Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
Some specific dental lasers, such as the diode laser and Nd:YAG are being used in North America, where legislation permits, by dental hygienists. These lasers are being used in non-surgical periodontal treatment regimens by removing diseased epithelial lining of the periodontal pocket and reducing the intrasulcular bacterial population. Removal of the diseased epithelial lining, otherwise known as gingival curettage, whether completed using a debridement instrument or a laser is not within the scope of practice for dental hygienists in BC.
Dental hygienists should be aware that the diode laser and Nd:YAG are also used as soft tissue surgical lasers. It is important to note that lasers have the potential to cause permanent thermal damage to bone and tooth structures if used inappropriately.
There is limited research supporting the use of lasers to decrease subgingival bacterial loads in comparison to traditional non-surgical periodontal therapy. Additional studies are required to compare the effectiveness of laser pocket disinfection as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) as compared to SRP alone.
Lasers are showing potential for the removal of calculus from a diseased root surface, however, there is potential for damage to the root surface. Further research is required to determine effectiveness of lasers for SRP.
The Canadian Academy of Periodontology (CAP) does not support the use of lasers in the treatment of periodontal disease due to the lack of long-term comparative studies. Further to this, the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) re-affirms that there is insufficient or conflicting evidence to support the use of lasers for pocket disinfection, curettage and SRP. Further research is required in these areas to determine effectiveness and safety.
Dental hygienists who have undertaken appropriate education may use a diode laser as an adjunct for periodontal therapy. “Appropriate education” as defined in the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s (CDHBC) Scope of Practice Statement states that the preferred “appropriate education” for laser use in periodontal therapy is formal theoretical and clinical instruction.
Dental hygienists using a diode laser must ensure the tip is not initiated. An initiated tip leads to ablating or cutting of the soft tissues, otherwise known as gingival curettage, which is not within the dental hygiene scope of practice.
Additionally, the Nd:YAG laser would not be appropriate for use by a dental hygienist for SRP, as the thermal heat generated can lead to irreversible pulpal changes within the tooth. As well, the ND:YAG is not appropriate for dental hygienists to use for the purpose of pocket disinfection as it ablates the tissues in order to destroy pathogenic bacteria.
It is not within the legacy CDHBC Scope of Practice for dental hygienists to use lasers for the purpose of SRP or gingival curettage.
Legacy CDHBC advised dental hygienists that there is insufficient evidence to support the use of lasers in removing calculus from diseased root surfaces or in the reduction of subgingival bacterial loads. Registrants need to consider the risks and benefits of the use of lasers in adjunctive periodontal therapy, along with current indications for their use based on scientific evidence-based resources.
Legacy CDHBC recommended that a laser safety program be implemented prior to the use of lasers within the dental hygiene practice setting. This is to ensure the safety of the client and the clinician.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
Refer to section 15.03 (page 134) in the BCCOHP Bylaws for more information about marketing standards.
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To clarify the dental hygiene scope of practice as it relates to nitrous oxide sedation.
The legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s Scope of Practice Statement indicates that the dental hygienist may manage client pain, anxiety and fears. Inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide has proven to be an extremely effective and safe technique for the reduction of stress in the apprehensive or medically compromised client.
A dental hygienist may provide dental hygiene care to clients who are sedated by nitrous oxide/oxygen gases. However, appropriate education is required. “Appropriate education” is defined in the Scope of Practice Statement. The preferred “appropriate education” for dental hygienists treating clients who are receiving nitrous oxide sedation is formal theoretical and clinical instruction.
The following definitions have been developed to clarify the policy statement:
The “delivery” of nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation gases is within the dental hygiene scope of practice, with appropriate education.
The “administration” of nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation gases is not within the dental hygiene scope of practice.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on the administration of orofacial myofunctional therapies by dental hygienists.
As stated in the Scope of Practice Statement (for Dental Hygienists)“dental hygienists may assess the status of teeth and adjacent tissues and provide preventative and therapeutic dental hygiene care for teeth and adjacent tissues.”
Appropriate Education is defined in the Scope of Practice Statement and applies to the acquisition of knowledge and skills required to incorporate Orofacial Myfunctional Therapies (OMT) within the dental hygiene care. The ethical obligation to maintain competence in a skill in order to continue to incorporate it within dental hygiene care also applies to OMT.
Provided that a dental hygienist follows the full Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADPIE) process of care, OMT may be incorporated as an adjunct to dental hygiene care. The focus of ADPIE must remain on the muscles of the lips and tongue along with how they interact with those muscles associated with the face. Interventions provided must focus on the exercises related to soft tissues in the oral cavity proper relating to resting position and functional patterns of these muscles and those related in the face. No therapies may be provided past the oral cavity proper in the oropharyngeal region. For example: it would not be appropriate for a dental hygienist to provide pharyngeal muscle stimulation. Interventions in this region are restricted activities that do not fall within the dental hygiene scope of practice.
The Dental Hygienists Regulation does not require supervision for the provision of OMT. However, the dental hygiene scope of practice does not include a diagnostic-level decision making component for Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders; therefore a diagnosis would be required by a health care professional such as an orthodontist, dentist or physician.
Dental hygiene professionals who have received the appropriate education and certification in OMT and maintain currency may incorporate OMT into their dental hygiene practice. OMT may be used as an adjunct therapy supported through the Dental Hygiene ADPIE Process of Care.
Any diagnosis of an orofacial disease and/or disorders must be made by a dentist or appropriate health professional and not by the dental hygienist. Appropriate referrals are required when care is required not relating to soft tissues of the oral cavity or when deemed appropriate. OMT therapies should be completed in collaboration with other health care professionals involved in the client’s care when appropriate.
Dental hygienists must remain within the dental hygiene scope of practice when providing OMT. Therefore, treatment provided beyond the oral cavity proper into the pharyngeal region is not permitted as this is considered a restricted activity that is reserved for other health professionals such as: speech language pathologists, physicians and dentists.
In conjunction with upholding Continuing Competency expectations required by the BCCOHP, a registrant practicing OMT must maintain competence by upholding appropriate continuing education specific to OMT practice.
Added to Handbook: April 2013
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on the provision of orthodontic and prosthodontic services by dental hygienists.
As stated in the Clinical Therapy section of the Scope of Practice Statement , the dental hygienist may place and remove temporary restorations and perform “orthodontic procedures”, provided that appropriate education has been obtained.
“Appropriate education” has been defined as “acquisition of the knowledge and skills required to provide specific dental hygiene services at an entry-level standard of competence.”
At the February 2001 legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC Board meeting, the Board resolved that formal education is considered the appropriate education for dental hygienists providing orthodontic and prosthodontic services.
The Dental Hygienists Regulation does not require supervision for the provision of prosthodontic or orthodontic services. However, because the dental hygiene scope of practice does not include orthodontic or prosthodontic diagnostic-level decision making, most services will be provided in collaboration with a dentist.
The diagnosis and treatment related to orthodontic conditions is a restricted activity for dentists that does not fall within the dental hygiene scope of practice. Therefore, collaboration with a dentist is required when performing orthodontic procedures. As such, directions for orthodontic procedures must come to the dental hygienist after the dentist completes his/her diagnosis and treatment plan.
With regard to prosthodontic services, dental hygienists are allowed to place and remove temporary restorations and crowns utilizing temporary cements. Supervision is not required for these procedures. However, dental hygienists should work in collaboration with the dentist when possible to align care with the dentist’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
Dental hygienists providing orthodontic and prosthodontic services will have obtained education in their basic dental hygiene program or through a post-diploma formal education course.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on the provision of preventative resins by dental hygienists.
As stated in the Scope of Practice Statement, dental hygienists may apply preventative resin materials. The resins used for preventative resins are of a similar composition to the composite resins used for pit and fissure sealants. The management and application techniques of both materials are similar.
However, tooth preparations for fissure sealants and preventative resins differ. To prepare a tooth surface for a sealant, the surface is cleaned and an acid etchant is applied to create retentive micropores. When the dentist prepares a tooth surface for a preventative resin, a preparation is cut into the tooth surface using a bur or an aluminum oxide air abrasion system. As stated in the Sealant interpretation guideline, aluminum oxide air abrasives cut hard tissue, which is outside the dental hygiene scope of practice.
Registrants may apply preventative resins on a tooth surface that has been prepared by a dentist, provided that appropriate education has been completed. It is not within the dental hygiene scope of practice to diagnose or remove decay, as both of these are restricted activities that fall within the scope of practice that applies to dentists.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To clarify the scope and provision of athletic mouthguards by dental hygienists.
Custom-fitted mouthguards prevent sports injuries to the skull and dentition. Following appropriate training and through use of proper equipment, dental hygienists can assess clients’ needs and fabricate custom-fitted athletic mouthguards. Dental hygienists can evaluate the condition of mouthguards at dental hygiene visits for wear, tears, deterioration or unsatisfactory retention and provide intervention and education on the use of athletic mouthguards.
In providing athletic mouthguards dental hygienists can work together with other health professionals to deliver health education, injury prevention, and mouthguard promotion campaigns. This may be undertaken on either a one-to-one basis or with groups of clients, parents, athletes, athletic teams, sports coaches and officials, gym teachers or others. Dental hygienists may provide athletic mouthguards as an isolated service apart from comprehensive dental hygiene care (e.g. mobile or team setting). It is recommended that dental hygienists follow the standard protocol for obtaining informed consent.
Dental hygienists can provide custom-fitted athletic mouthguards to their clients after obtaining the appropriate education. A dental hygienist must incorporate a process of care (ADPIE) during the provision of athletic mouthguards and follow-up, and retain appropriate documentation.
Added to Handbook: October 2007
Updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines around the Radiation Protection Program for dental hygienists who own their own radiography equipment.
Radiography equipment and the exposure of dental x-rays poses a small but inherent safety risk to both the client and the operator. As such, the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s Practice Standard 2 states that “a dental hygienist must practice safely.” Policy 2.2 further states, “Dental hygienists must use potentially hazardous materials (such as radiation and disinfectants) safely, according to manufacturer’s recommendations and government guidelines…” Policy 2.5 states, “When dental hygienists are responsible for radiography equipment, dental hygienists must comply with all aspects of the Radiation Protection Program.”
The owner of dental x-ray equipment is responsible for ensuring that ionizing radiation is kept As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA). As part of the Radiation Protection Program, any registrant who owns radiation-emitting equipment is required to comply with federal and provincial safety regulations as outlined in the following documents:
Federal regulations outline the standard for the construction and function of all dental x-ray equipment. Provincial regulations outline the requirements for room design, protection of clients, and protection of workers, including quality assurance related to ionizing radiation.
Any registrant who owns dental x-ray equipment is ultimately responsible for being familiar with all regulations pertaining to radiation safety. As well, the registrant who owns the x-ray equipment is responsible for implementing and maintaining radiation safety within their practice. This relates to radiation safety for staff and clients.
To ensure compliance with safety regulations, a dental hygienist must have radiographic equipment inspected upon initial installation and at regular intervals by an appropriate government agency.* This is to ensure that: radiography equipment is installed appropriately; a quality assurance radiation program has been implemented and is being maintained; and radiographic equipment is functioning properly.
Monitoring radiation exposure is considered a component of radiation safety. Safety Code 30 provides general information on personal dosimeter monitoring. In BC, regulations for personal monitoring fall within the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. WorkSafe BC has published guidelines for wearing personal dosimeters.** It is important to be familiar with these requirements. If questions arise related to these guidelines, they should be directed to WorkSafe BC.
Any registrant who owns their own dental x-ray equipment must ensure they understand and implement a Radiation Protection Program within their practice setting. This includes complying with all federal and provincial regulations.
Registrants who own their own dental x-ray equipment must:
*The BCCDC-appointed dental radiation equipment surveyor is contracted to Innovative Biomedical Engineering: 1-250-898-9089
**Information on how and where to obtain a dosimeter can be found at Health Canada National Dosimetry Services. Additionally the BC Centre for Disease Control has a list of approved dosimetry service providers.
Legacy CDHBC Practice Standards and Practice Standard Policies. Victoria: Legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC. Available from: https://oralhealthbc.ca/practice-resources/practice-standards-guidance/hygienist/practice-standards-policies-dh/
Government of Canada. Radiation Emitting Devices Act. Minister of Justice; 2004. Available from: http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/PDF/R-1.pdf
Health Canada. Health Canada Radiation Protection in Dentistry Recommended Safety Procedures for the Use of Dental X-ray Equipment Safety Code 30. 2000. Available from: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/alt_formats/hecs-sesc/pdf/pubs/radiation/99ehd-dhm177/99ehd-dhm177-eng.pdf
Health Canada. Food and Drug Act R.S.C., 1985, c. F-27. Available from: https://lois-laws.justice.gc.
Healthlink BC. Dental Fact Sheet [Internet]. 2012. Available from: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/tests-treatments-medications/medical-tests/dental-x-rays
WorkSafe BC. Occupational Health and Safety Regulations – Radiation exposure. 2004. Available from: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/law-policy/occupational-health-safety/searchable-ohs-regulation/ohs-regulation/part-07-noise-vibration-radiation-and-temperature#SectionNumber:7.17
Added to Handbook: November 2015
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on registrants’ responsibility to report suspected child or vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
CHILD ABUSE
Under section 14 of the Child, Family and Community Service Act (CFCS Act), a person who has reason to believe a child has been, or is likely to be, physically harmed, sexually abused or exploited, neglected, or in need of protection, has a legal duty to promptly report the matter. The duty to report applies even if the information is privileged or confidential.
Failure to report is an offence under section 14(6) of the CFCS Act, and could result in a fine and/or imprisonment.
Registrants, who suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, are required by law to promptly report their suspicions to the Ministry for Children and Families. The free, province-wide telephone number to report suspected child abuse is 310‑1234 (no area code required). If a child is felt to be in immediate danger, the local police department should be contacted.
Where possible, documentation should be completed in the client’s chart.
VULNERABLE ADULT ABUSE
A vulnerable adult is defined by the Adult Guardianship Act and The Canadian Academy of Health Science as someone 19 years of age or older who may have reduced capacities as an individual (whether these are physical, cognitive, educational, financial or other). This may include (but is not limited to) populations such as seniors or individuals with diminished intellectual or cognitive capacity. Vulnerable adult abuse is commonly identified as a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to a person, and identifies that such abuse can also result from unintentional or intentional neglect. The harm associated with abuse of vulnerable adults can manifest in a number of ways, including physical, financial, psychological, and sexual abuse.
The Canadian population is retaining their dentition for longer than in previous generations and adults are seen regularly for dental hygiene care including head, neck, and intraoral examinations. Dental hygienists are ideally positioned to recognize the signs of abuse due to the nature of dental hygienists’ relationships with clients and the regularity of care.
There is no mandatory reporting requirement for members of the general public in cases of suspected abuse of vulnerable persons in BC. However, health professionals such as dental hygienists have an ethical obligation to act in the best interests of their clients as outlined in the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC’s Code of Ethics (for Dental Hygienists) with specific attention given to statement 10:
“Report to their licensing body or other appropriate agencies any illegal or unethical professional decisions or practices by dental hygienists, or others. The dental hygienist is committed to safe and ethical care for clients…..A dental hygienist who believes the behaviour by another is not in the best interest of the client or public will report it to the appropriate agency. It is required by law to report cases of suspected child abuse.”
If an adult is not of sound decision making capacity or is unable to seek assistance due to a physical handicap or physical restraint, the provisions of the Adult Guardianship Act indicate that any person may notify a “designated agency” of the suspected abuse or neglect. This Act encompasses abuse that may take place in a vulnerable adult’s personal residence, a relative’s home, a care facility, or in a public place. The “designated agencies” to which such cases may be reported are:
Island Health has resource pages for Abuse and Neglect and Getting Help and Who to Call which would be helpful to keep on hand in the event of suspected abuse.
Beyond the provisions of the Adult Guardianship Act, additional legislation that may be applicable to cases of abuse includes the following:
If an emergency situation is suspected whereby a vulnerable adult’s life or safety is at immediate risk, the dental hygienist should contact the police at 911. In a non-emergency situation, the dental hygienist should determine whether the vulnerable person is of sound decision making capacity to consent or refuse consent to having their circumstances reported to an outside agency or organization. The dental hygienist should also consider whether the provisions of the Adult Guardianship Act, the Community Care and Assisted Living Act, or the Health Professions Act are applicable to the situation.
If a vulnerable adult of sound decision making capacity refuses to allow the dental hygienist to disclose their circumstances and the provisions of these Acts are not applicable, then the dental hygienist can offer supportive resources and information. This may include the provision of contact information for the office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (1-800-663-7867 or mail@trustee.bc.ca) which provides assistance to adults in need of support for personal and financial decision making. Alternately, the local Community Response Network (bccrns.ca) is a localized BC organization that provides a coordinated community response to cases of vulnerable adult abuse and neglect.
For further information on the detection and reporting of abuse of vulnerable adults please consult the Spring 2012 edition of Access titled “Elder Abuse: Detection and Reporting”; the expanded version of “Elder Abuse: Detection and Reporting” includes further information, along with a list of references and resources. In addition, please contact us if you wish to discuss your particular scenario regarding suspicion of vulnerable adult abuse and possible next steps.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Last updated: Feb 2015
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for the assessment and preparation of teeth for pit and fissure sealants by dental hygienists.
Dental sealants act as physical barriers and therefore prevent the colonization of caries-producing bacteria in the pits and fissures of teeth. The Scope of Practice Statement (for Dental Hygienists) describes the dental hygiene scope of practice, which includes the placement of pit and fissure sealants within the implementation phase of dental hygiene care and ongoing evaluation thereafter.
In order to meet the client’s oral health needs comprehensively, it is considered best practice for the dental hygienist to collaborate with the client’s dentist when treatment planning pit and fissure sealants. In practical terms, a consultation between the dentist and hygienist regarding the selection of teeth for fissure sealants can occur easily in a dental office setting. In dental hygiene practices that are outside the dental office setting, however, such consultation may be more challenging.
A dental hygienist may apply pit and fissure sealants provided that the full ADPIE process of care is followed. This would include a caries risk assessment for the client, as well as an evaluation of the continuous vs. episodic dental care accessed by the client. When possible, treatment planning for pit and fissure sealants should be done in collaboration with the dentist.
Consideration for sealant placement should be based on the best available evidence related to the effectiveness of the intervention and on the knowledge of the risk factors and patterns of caries.
There are a variety of sealant materials available and the dental hygienist should use professional judgment when determining which material to use. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimum sealant placement and retention.
Dental hygienists may use Prophy-Jet type air abrasion systems to prepare tooth surfaces. However, air abrasion systems that use aluminum oxide may not be used. Cutting hard or soft tissues is considered a reserved act that falls outside of the dental hygiene scope of practice. Air abrasive systems that use aluminum oxide have the ability to cut hard tissue, even at low p.s.i.’s, and therefore should not be used by dental hygienists.
Added to Handbook: Prior to June 2004
Last updated: September 2013
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines on the use of social media by dental hygienists.
The term “social media” refers to web and mobile technologies and practices that people use to search for and share content, opinions, insights, experiences, and perspectives online. It includes blogs, online forums, podcasts, and commonly recognized networking platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
The use of social media is expanding rapidly, blurring the boundaries between public and private space. Anything posted on social media lives in a virtual space and may end up in the public domain permanently, irrespective of the intent at the time of posting. Confidentiality can never be guaranteed.
Expectations of professional and ethical conduct are the same whether dental hygienists are interacting in person, or online through social media. Dental hygienists should be vigilant in avoiding online situations that may be harmful to clients and detrimental to their own credibility and reputation.
Dental hygienists should generally refrain from establishing personal connections with clients online. In some instances it may be acceptable to create an online connection with clients for professional purposes only. In these instances dental hygienists should establish a professional account that accurately conveys their credentials, and is used separately from their personal account in order to maintain appropriate boundaries. While use of a professional account may be acceptable for certain purposes, such as sharing educational resources or general information, dental hygienists are cautioned against providing clinical advice to any one individual via social media or in a public domain.
Any marketing carried out using social media must comply with the College’s marketing bylaws. Additionally, dental hygienists are expected to declare conflicts of interest when using social media where applicable (e.g. corporate affiliations or sponsorships).
From a legal standpoint, dental hygienists should consider whether the content they publish violates defamation, privacy and/or plagiarism laws. From an ethical and professional standpoint, they should also consider whether client privacy expectations and confidentiality may be overtly or unintentionally compromised. Additionally, while it is not appropriate to regulate and discipline all conduct that occurs outside a dental hygienist’s practice, if there is off duty conduct that threatens the public, or the public’s perception of the profession, the College is justified in investigating. Under the Health Professions Act, dental hygienists also have a duty to report any illegal or unethical conduct by other licensed health professionals to the appropriate regulatory college.
Dental hygienists should exercise caution when posting personal information on social media platforms. Clear professional boundaries must be maintained, which is facilitated by use of professional accounts that are separate from personal accounts. Additionally, posting content that could be viewed as unprofessional, or that puts public trust in the profession at risk, should be avoided.
Dental hygienists must always maintain the confidentiality of client information and never post identifiable client information or images to social media – even in a closed or private online forum.
Dental hygienists should read, understand, and apply the strictest privacy settings to maintain control over access to their personal information. At the same time, it should be recognized that privacy settings are imperfect and can be compromised.
The privacy of clients, colleagues and co-workers must be respected. Dental hygienists must respect others’ privacy by carefully managing information acquired from social media. Dental hygienists must also avoid searching online sources for private client information that has no relevance to the client’s dental hygiene care.
Dental hygienists must be familiar with the practice standards that govern their practice, as well as applicable laws. Defamatory statements published online may result in allegations of libel or slander. Plagiarism and copyright infringement can also lead to legal action. For this reason, dental hygienists should provide credit and links when sharing information from other original sources.
Dental hygienists should represent their credentials accurately when used with social media for professional purposes. They should ensure that the content they post aligns with the dental hygiene scope of practice, practice standards, and code of ethics, and reflects information that is evidence-based or from legitimate sources. Dental hygienists should also declare conflicts of interest where applicable.
The BC College of Oral Health Professionals gratefully acknowledges the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia and the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals for granting permission to adopt content from existing practice guidelines on social media.
Added to Handbook: October 2018
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for antibiotic premedication for clients with an orthopaedic joint replacement.
Historically, antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental treatment was routinely prescribed to those who had a prosthetic joint replacement. The rationale was related to the risk of bacteremia-associated hematogenous seeding of bacteria onto joint implants following invasive dental/dental hygiene treatment causing potential prosthetic joint infection (PJI) and failure.
Invasive dental/dental hygiene treatment has been defined as “procedures that involve manipulation of oral soft tissues, manipulation of the periapical area of teeth, or oral mucosa perforation”.1,2 These would include, but are not limited to the following dental hygiene procedures: scaling, root planning, probing, polishing teeth (where bleeding is anticipated), initial placement of orthodontic bands, intraligamentary anesthesia injections, subgingival placement of antibiotic fibers or strips and suture removal.
Throughout the years, there have been many changes to the recommendations for prophylactic antibiotic coverage for clients with prosthetic joints who are seeking dental/dental hygiene treatment. In recent years there has been increased concern about antimicrobial resistance.1,2,4-7 With overexposure, infectious organisms have adapted and are not being killed by antibiotics that were previously effective. With this there has been a recent advocacy for antimicrobial stewardship, with a focus on “appropriate selection, dosing, route and duration of antimicrobial therapy.” 3,6-7 This has led to a critical investigation on the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotic coverage for those with prosthetic joints.
The following provides a brief history of decisions by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Dental Association (ADA) since 2003:
In addition to the recent changes as noted above, in the summer of 2016, the Canadian Orthopedic Association (COA), the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) and the Association of Medical Microbiology and Infections Disease (AMMI) Canada also reviewed current evidence and have posted their consensus statement related to joint replacement and dental care on the CDA website.3 These conclusions and recommendations align closely with those clinical recommendations made by the ADA CSA in 2015. The Consensus Statement and Recommendations of these Canadian organizations are as follows:3
Further to this, the October 21, 2016 CDA Oasis identifies the need to consider the client’s overarching medical status when considering prophylactic antibiotic.13
The AAOS/ADA’s 2016 Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) for the Prevention of Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Patients Undergoing Dental Procedures defines high-risk as those clients who are immunocompromised and/or have glycemic control concerns. The dental hygienist plays an important role in completing a thorough medical history and medication review to screen for conditions that require medical clearance for care and/or a determination to be made about antibiotic coverage. Table 1 summarizes the high risk conditions that have been identified by the AAOS and ADA.
| Table 1: Adapted from the AAOS/ADA 2016 published Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) for the Prevention of Orthopaedic Implant Infection in Patients Undergoing Dental Procedures12 | ||
| Clinical situations for which a client with a prosthetic joint needs to be referred to the orthopedic surgeon or primary care physician due to a high risk or immunocompromised status when planning dental procedures that involve: manipulation of gingival tissue or the periapical region of teeth or perforation of the oral mucosa.12 | ||
| Client Profile | Status | Consultation/Referral |
| Immunocompromised Status/Conditions: |
| Refer to orthopedic surgeon for determination of prophylactic antibiotic coverage needs |
| Diabetic Glycemic Control: |
| Delay treatment until consultation with the primary care physician for an HbA1c or blood glucose test |
| In addition to any of the above: |
| Refer to orthopedic surgeon for determination of prophylactic antibiotic coverage needs |
| For more detailed information see the AAOS Ortho Guidelines : http://www.orthoguidelines.org/go/auc/default.cfm?auc_id=224995&actionxm=Terms | ||
For circumstances where antibiotic prophylaxis is warranted, the AAOS has adopted the American Heart Association (AHA) 2007 prophylactic antibiotic regimen as published in the Circulation 2007 article titled Prevention of Endocarditis.12 The AAOS has made a minor revision by removing Clindamycin and Cefazolin as antibiotic options to reflect current medical practice, as outlined in Table 2:
| Table 2: Prophylactic Regimen:12 | ||
| Situation | Agent | Regimen – Single Dose 30-60 minutes before procedure |
| Oral | Amoxicillin | Adults: 2.0 g Children: 50 mg/kg orally, 1 hour before procedure |
| Unable to take oral medications | Ampicillin or ceftriaxone | Adults: 2.0 g IM or IV* (ampicillin )1.0 g IM or IV (ceftriaxone) Children: 50 mg/kg, 1M or IV within 30 minutes of procedure |
Allergy to oral penicillins or ampicillin | Cephalexin** † | Adults: 2.0 g Children: 50 mg/kg orally, 1 hour before procedure |
| Azithromycin or clarithromycin | Adults: 500 mg Children: 15 mg/kg orally, 1 hour before procedure | |
| Allergic to Penicillin or ampicillin and unable to take oral medications | Ceftriaxone † | Adults: 1.0 g IM or IV Children: 50 mg/kg IM or IV, within 30 minutes of procedure |
| Azithromycin or clarithromycin | Adults: Equivalent Dose 500mg IV Children: Equivalent Dose IM or IV within 30 minutes of procedure | |
| IM indicates intramuscular; IV, intravenous *Intramuscular injections should be avoided in persons receiving anticoagulants **Or other first or second generation oral cephalosporin in equivalent adult or pediatric dosages † Cephalosporins should not be used with individuals with a history of anaphylaxix, angioedema or uticaria, to penicillins or ampicillin. | ||
| From: American Academy of Orthopeadic Surgeons. Appropriate Use Criteria: AP Drugs From AHA Statement. 2012 Available from: https://aaos.webauthor.com/go/auc/terms.cfm?auc_id=224965&actionxm=Terms | ||
Timing of Antibiotic Administration
In conversations with the AAOS, it was confirmed that there is insufficient research on the effectiveness of post-operative antibiotic dosing in the event that a client, who has a prosthetic joint, inadvertently forgets to take the antibiotic prophylaxis. Until further research has been conducted the AAOS has adopted the 2007 AHA post-operative dosing recommendations.14
The AHA recommendation is as follows: an antibiotic for prophylaxis should be administered in a single dose before invasive dental/dental hygiene procedure. If the dosage of antibiotic is inadvertently not administered before the procedure, the dosage may be administered up to 2 hours after the procedure. This protocol should be reserved for emergency situations and may not be used simply for the convenience of the office or the dental hygienist.
Registrants are encouraged to visit the following websites for the most current information on antibiotic premedication for clients with prosthetic joints:
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: www.aaos.org
The American Dental Association: www.ada.org
The Canadian Dental Association: www.cda-adc.ca
POLICY
As outlined in the legacy College of Dental Hygienists of BC (CDHBC) Code of Ethics Statements the dental hygienist is responsible for ensuring the health and welfare of the client and that dental hygiene services are provided in a safe environment using current knowledge and skills.15 As well, dental hygienists must ensure that assessments, implementation strategies and documentation align with the legacy CDHBC Practice Standards. A thorough review and analysis of the health history and medication profile information are required. This is necessary in order to screen for the presence of any risk factors or conditions that would require any modifications, considerations or referrals for a client with a prosthetic joint, prior to providing dental hygiene care.
The routine use of antibiotic prophylaxis is not required for most clients with a prosthetic joint replacement prior to dental hygiene procedures. If such a client presents with one or more risk factors such as an immunocompromised condition and/or poor or unknown glycemic control (as outlined in Table 1), the dental hygienist should consult with the orthopedic surgeon for a determination about appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis.4 Ideally, the orthopaedic surgeon should be consulted for a prescription, however if this is not possible, another health care provider with prescribing rights may be engaged to provide an appropriate prescription (e.g. physician or dentist). A collaborative approach with the client’s physician or dentist is recommended. The decision for antibiotic prophylaxis coverage, and any directions provided must be clearly documented in the client’s chart.
It has been shown that asymptomatic transient bacteremia can occur after common oral activities such as tooth brushing, chewing gum, or using dental floss.2,9,16 As such, dental hygienists should educate and encourage clients, who have had a prosthetic joint, in the effective daily removal of oral biofilm to maintain a healthy oral cavity.11 It is also recommended that prior to having a prosthetic joint, the client should be in optimal oral health and maintain this post-surgery.3,9
REFERENCES
Added to Handbook: February 2010
Updated: January 2017
A PDF version of this document can be found here.
To provide guidelines for the provision of bleaching trays and the removal of stain by vital tooth whitening.
Health Canada considers tooth whitening to be a cosmetic procedure and in BC vital tooth whitening is not considered a restricted activity. Dental hygienists, in accordance with section 4 of the Dental Hygienists Regulation, may “assess the status of teeth and adjacent tissues and provide preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene care for teeth and adjacent tissues”. The dental hygiene scope of practice includes removing stain using various methods. Stain removal is therapeutic in that it contributes to the client’s emotional well-being and is a motivational factor for oral hygiene practices.
There are numerous in-office and at-home whitening products available to remove stain, including solutions that are activated with heat or light, and others that are activated chemically. Dental hygienists are educated to perform all steps of the various methods including the manufacturing and placement of bleaching trays. The only exception is the use of lasers for the purpose of whitening.
Section 6(1)(c) of the Dental Hygienists Regulation states that dental hygiene services are provided in accordance with any instructions that may be given by a dentist. Effects of tooth whitening may impact dental treatment. Registrants considering tooth whitening for their clients should consult with the client’s dentist to ensure that the procedure fits with the overall treatment plan and is in the best interest of the client.
It is a legal and professional responsibility to follow the BCCOHP Regulations and Practice Standard Polices (for Dental Hygienists). These policies outline the ADPIE process of care and apply to the process of vital tooth whitening. Professional judgment is used to determine the appropriate assessments required to develop a dental hygiene care plan. The care plan should incorporate appropriate referrals, along with informing the client of the risks associated with the whitening procedure, obtaining informed consent, and evaluating the results of the procedure.
Dental hygienists are educated to perform the various steps for vital tooth whitening with the exception of the use of lasers. Taking impressions and fitting bleaching trays are not considered restricted activities in BC. As such, these services may be completed by dental hygienists provided that the appropriate ADPIE process of care is followed and that appropriate education related to the whitening process has been completed. “Appropriate education” is defined in the Scope of Practice Statement (for Dental Hygienists) and for vital tooth whitening would consist of self-study, formal or continuing education sessions.
Dental hygienists may remove stain using tooth whitening products provided they adhere to the manufacturer’s directions for the products and ensure the proper use of equipment involved in the whitening process. Whitening gels may be provided to clients for use in custom-fitted bleaching trays. Appropriate instructions must be provided that align with the manufacturer’s directions.
It is recommended that registrants considering tooth whitening for their clients consult with the client’s dentist to ensure the procedure fits with the overall treatment plan for the client.
Added to Handbook: July 2008
Updated: September 2013