CHICAGO, April 17, 2025 — The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) have issued a joint statement urging that only qualified and licensed professionals deliver dental hygiene care.
The statement, titled “Qualified Dental Hygiene Providers,” was released in response to recent U.S. legislation that allows individuals without proper education or credentials to perform dental hygiene services. Both organizations warn that this trend could put patient safety at risk.
According to the joint statement, dental hygienists play a key role in preventing disease and providing essential oral care.
To practice, licensed dental hygienists typically complete 84 to 120 credit hours through accredited programs before becoming eligible to enter the profession.
Jill Rethman, RDH, BA, President of the IFDH, said the dental hygiene profession is facing global challenges to its autonomy and standards.
“Across the globe, the dental hygiene profession is at a crossroads,” Rethman said. “Disguised as solutions to workforce shortages, these quick fixes do not address the real causes and could put the public at risk by allowing untrained individuals to provide care. The IFDH stands with the ADHA in opposing any efforts that weaken the integrity of our profession.”
Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS, President of the ADHA, echoed that message, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong professional standards.
“As the largest dental hygiene association in the United States, we are proud to partner with the IFDH to uphold excellence in education and care,” Haley-Hitz said. “Together, we are working to ensure that dental hygienists around the world can continue to deliver the highest quality of service.”
Rather than lowering standards, both organizations advocate for solutions that strengthen the profession. These include improving recruitment and addressing workplace conditions to ensure more people enter and remain in the field.
The statement reinforces the ADHA and IFDH’s shared commitment to protecting public health through qualified, well-trained dental hygiene professionals.
