• LEGISLATION

The Dental Disciplines Act governs six of the regulated dental professions in Saskatchewan: dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental assistants, dental technicians and denturists. The Act has provisions that prescribe authorized practices for each of these professions.

You must have a practical understanding of the laws and rules that are relevant to your practice and be able to apply that knowledge.

You should have a working knowledge of the laws and rules. For example, how/where to access them, the topics they cover, and how to use them.

DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS

As a self-regulated profession, the College of Dental Assistants of Saskatchewan has the responsibility and authority to investigate any complaints that are lodged relative to Registered Dental Assistants. The complaint must be in writing and signed. The dental assistant is advised of the complaint and asked to respond. Once the necessary documentation is acquired, the complaint is referred to a Professional Conduct Committee who interview the complainant, the dental assistant and other individuals as required. If there is sufficient evidence to warrant a hearing, the Discipline Committee is requested to convene a hearing. Rulings of the committee will be posted in accordance with the CDAS Regulatory Bylaws.

Position Statement

Tobacco And Oral Health

There is little doubt about the risks associated with tobacco usage. Smoking is associated with tooth loss associated with periodontal disease and many kinds of cancer. As oral health professionals, dental assistants have the responsibility to inform our patients about the risks associated with tobacco usage and the support available to those who seek to quit.

Free Sugar

Free sugar is defined by the World Health Organization and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in multiple reports as “all monosaccharides and disaccharides added to foods by the manufacturer, cook, or consumer, plus sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, and fruit juices”.