The Ontario Dental Assistants Association or ODAA (then the ODN & AA) was formed by Marion Edwards in 1927—just two years before women got the vote! A woman well before her time, Marion saw the value in developing an organization that recognized the power of dental assistants networking, bonding and uniting.
Up until 1960, dental assistants learned on the job. They were not formally educated, and their skills and abilities were only as good as the person who was training them.
In 1960, a committee of dental assistants, spearheaded by the late June Cook—a member of our organization since 1946—made a presentation to the Royal College of Dental Surgeons (RCDS) outlining the need for formal training for Ontario dental assistants.
Why is certification important?
The RCDS agreed and it was decided that the ODAA be the certifying body for the curriculum. The Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Toronto Academy of Dentistry helped the committee to prepare an outline of the curriculum for certification. Evening classes started, and the Certification Program for dental assistants was born! From the first presentation of Certification Certificates in November 1961 to present day, the education and status of the dental assistant have been elevated to a new high.
How to become a certified dental assistant.
Dental assistants in Ontario are not yet recognized as “Regulated Health Professionals” under the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA). This means that untrained staff may be hired to work as dental assistants. This is of concern because dental assistants are responsible for infection control in the dental office. Formally educated dental assistants have been extensively trained in the disinfection of operatories, sterilization of instruments and management of infectious and hazardous waste.
The ODAA is aggressively working with the Ontario government to have dental assisting become a regulated profession. We believe that regulation is the best way to protect the public with regard to infection control issues, and ensure that all people working in a dental office are trained, licensed and committed to their profession. See regulation status.
In 2009, the Ontario Dental Assistants Association marked its 75th anniversary of incorporation. This significant milestone represents 75 years of support, but also of pride and determination among our members. Backed by a solid history, we stand proud - poised to shape our own future.
For more information on joining the ODAA, see Join Today or Contact Us.