Message from Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

National Dental Hygienists Week

April 19-25, 2009

National Dental Hygienists Week is an excellent opportunity to promote the important role dental hygienists play in good oral health, which is directly linked to the overall health of Canadians.

Current research shows that poor oral health contributes to diseases and conditions in other parts of the body. This makes the role of a dental hygienist even more significant in terms of improving the health of Canadians.

I would like to recognize the stellar work that dental hygienists and other dedicated dental professionals in Canada are doing to provide the public with high-quality, accessible oral health services.

Along with performing their regular tasks to promote healthy gums, mouths, and teeth at the dental office, many dental hygienists also work in schools, long-term care facilities and other community locations to help families, students, teachers and healthcare professionals apply good oral health care.

Our Government incorporates oral health in our broader health promotion, disease prevention, and health surveillance activities. For example, over the past two years we have been involved in a national survey to find out more about the oral health of Canadians. In 2010, we expect to release the Canadian Oral Health Report Card, which will reveal, for the first time in over 30 years, how well Canadians look after their teeth, gums and mouth.

Health Canada 's Office of the Chief Dental Officer plays a key role in increasing awareness about prevention of oral diseases and provides evidence-based advice on oral health policy and program development. Our Government also works with partners in oral health to prevent and control oral and associated diseases.

I encourage all Canadian families to develop good oral health habits to maintain their quality of life.

For further information on National Dental Hygienists Week and on dental hygienists in Canada , please visit the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association's website.

For information on the possible connection between oral health and overall health, please visit the Its Your Health Web site.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada