Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.
Skip to main content

Skills, Education, and Experience

Skills

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Well organized and detail oriented
  • Ability to solve problems and make decisions
  • Should have a strong back, good eyesight and a high degree of manual dexterity
  • Enjoy working with people and as part of a team

Education and Experience

To work as a dental hygienist in BC you require:

  • completion of an accredited diploma or bachelor-level degree program in dental hygiene
  • registration with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals [BCCOHP]

Qualifications

This occupation is regulated in British Columbia.

You must be registered with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals [BCCOHP] in order to work as a Dental Hygienist in BC.  

In order to register you require:

  • Graduation from a Dental Hygiene Program recognized by the College
  • Completion of the National Dental Hygiene Certification Exam
  • Demonstration of current Continuing Competency (CC) credits
  • Completion of the Jurisprudence Education Module
  • Possession of professional negligence insurance
  • Demonstration of good standing in every jurisdiction in which you are currently or previously registered to practice dental hygiene
  • Demonstration of good character
  • Authorization for a criminal record
  • Submission of a complete registration application form and the applicable fees.

For more information see:

Useful Website Description

General Information

Useful Website Description

Registered Dental Hygienists Registration Requirements

Useful Website Description

National Dental Hygiene Certification Exam

Useful Website Description

General Information

Internationally Trained Dental Hygienist

In order to be eligible for registration in BC, foreign-trained dental hygienists and recent graduates of programs not approved by the BC College of Oral Health Professionals must also successfully complete the Canadian Performance Exam in Dental Hygiene (CPEDH) offered by the Federation of Dental Hygiene Regulators of Canada. This approved exam determines your competence and readiness to practice.

For more information: