CDAA | Our Strategy

Serving as the leading organization for dental assistants across Canada, focused on Standardization, Sustainability, and Communication, the CDAA has defined outcomes that will contribute to long-term growth and high performance of the profession.

Two women in consultation one with a binder taking notes

Standardization

Canadians are assured that Dental Assistants provide the same high quality care across the country. We will be successful when we have achieved the following outcomes:

There is a minimum qualification standard for employment upheld in every province and territory.
How will we know when this has been realized?
1. Every province and territory has licensing requirements for dental assistants.
2. Legislation requires dentists to hire only licensed dental assistants for chairside care.
3. All Dental Assisting education programs are accredited.
Dental Assistants have professional portability throughout Canada.
What are the indicators of success?
1. There is a uniform scope of practice across the country.
2. Licensing requirements are consistent in all provinces and territories.

Communication

The CDAA is committed to transparent and open communication with its members, partners, and the general public. We will be successful when we have achieved the following outcomes:

The CDAA is the recognized and well respected national voice for the profession.
How will we know when this has been realized?
1. Members are well informed and engaged.
2. Member organizations are aligned.
3. Political and industry decision-makers seek our counsel.
The general public will recognize, understand, and value dental assistants.
What are the indicators of success?
1. Interest in dental assisting exceeds enrolment capability.
2. All chair side dental assistants are trained and tested to a national standard.
3. Corporations are seeking partnership with the CDAA.

Group of diverse people in office space at table chatting

Sustainability

Keeping members at the forefront of our association will secure long-term sustainability. We will be successful when we have achieved the following outcomes:

CDAA Membership is robust and growing.
How will we know when this has been realized?
1. Dental Assistants from all provinces and territories are represented.
2. Members play an active role in the Association.
3. There are vital dental assisting associations in all jurisdictions.
4. We have formal associate memberships.
Annual revenues exceed $1 000 000.00
What are the indicators of success?
1. More than 20 000 dental assistants have CDAA membership.
2. Affinity partnerships add significant value to the organization.