In Canada, dental hygienists must successfully complete a dental hygiene diploma or bachelor program. The curriculum focuses on oral and clinical science, with an emphasis on health promotion and preventive, motivational and communication strategies. To be able to practice, dental hygienists must be registered or licensed by the dental hygiene regulatory authority in their provincial or territorial jurisdiction.

There are two accredited dental hygiene schools in the Maritimes. Dalhousie University located in Halifax, Nova Scotia offers both a diploma and a Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene and Oulton College in Moncton, New Brunswick offers a diploma in Dental Hygiene.

For a complete listing of dental hygiene programs, please go to the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) homepage www.cdha.ca and click on Education and then follow the link dental hygiene programs.