Message from the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

National Dental Hygienists Week

April 8-14, 2012

Health Canada is proud to join dental hygienists across the country in celebrating National Dental Hygienists Week. Held in conjunction with Oral Health Month, this special week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work of dental hygienists.  

Dental hygienists provide oral health care services that help Canadians maintain healthy gums, teeth and mouth which, in turn, contribute to good health overall.

The most recent results from the Oral Health Component of the Canadian Health Measures Survey demonstrate that overall, Canadians have very good oral health. In fact, three out of every four Canadians visit a dental professional every year, and of those who do, two out of three don't need any other dental treatment. That is a testament to the value of the work of dental hygienists.

In recognition of National Dental Hygienists Week, I hope you will join the Government of Canada and dental professionals in recognizing dental hygienists and their contribution to the health of Canadians.

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

For further information on good oral health practices, please visit Health Canada's Oral Health website.  

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada