Charting a Course: Strengthening the Oral Health Workforce in Canada Dental Assistants The Canadian Dental Assistants’ Association (CDAA) described their own transformation as an organization. Leslie Ann Wirth, executive director of CDAA, mentioned that two years ago, the association’s membership was low with fewer than 5,000 members, which made it difficult for the association to pursue its mission. In the past 18 months, efforts have been made to reinvigorate the CDAA, to increase its effectiveness and attract more members. Wirth underscored the lack of a national database of basic information on dental assistants in Canada. In some parts of Canada, the dental assistant profession is unregulated. Further, she explained that although there is a perceived shortage of dental assistants, there isn’t enough evidence to understand its full magnitude or geographic distribution. The CDAA believes that focusing on the retention of dental assistants in the workforce should take precedence over creating more spaces for training new dental assistants. CDAA surveys have shown that some dental assistants feel undervalued, overworked, underpaid, and have no upward career mobility. CDAA has commissioned three workplace surveys and a literature review to better understandingworkplace-related issues for dental assistants. The CDAA remains committed to further exploring workplace issues and may repeat these efforts with a goal to create a strong baseline of information for comparison over time. CDAA is also rebuilding and creating a strategy map for the future. The association is committed to creating a national database for its membership, strategic direction for standardization in the next five years, and actively focusing on research and education. Denturists Mallory Potter, executive director of the Denturist Association of Canada (DAC), presented an outlook for denturism in Canada that emphasized current strengths and opportunities for growth. Representing approximately 2,400 denturists nationwide, the DAC is focused on navigating the evolving landscape of oral health care and is optimistic about the future of the profession. There is a rising demand for denturist services due to Canada’s aging population and increasing awareness about the importance of oral health. Survey data shows that 62% of denturists reported increased demand over the past five years, largely driven by demographic changes and greater public awareness. This trend positions denturism favourably, offering a promising future for those entering the field. However, to fully capitalize on these opportunities, the DAC recognizes the importance of addressing workforce challenges. Denturism is currently experiencing a period of transition, with one-third of denturists planning to retire within the next 5 years. This presents an opportunity for new professionals to step in and fill these roles, ensuring continuity of care and service to communities across the country. The DAC is proactive in its approach to building a robust workforce pipeline. It is advocating for more educational programs and greater government support to expand training opportunities for denturists. Currently, there are five educational programs in Canada, and the DAC sees potential for growth in this area. Many denturists believe there should be more hands-on training and a curriculum that reflects the latest trends in digital denturism, which is a significant area of growth for the profession. 26 | 2024 | Issue 5
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