1961: Dental Mechanics Act
The Alberta Government passed the Dental Mechanics Act in 1961, legalizing the profession of Dental Mechanics in Alberta and the Certified Dental Mechanics Society.
At that time, dental mechanics were allowed to provide complete denture treatments directly to the public.
Under the Dental Mechanics Act, dental mechanics were regulated by The Board of Examiners for Certified Dental Mechanics. This regulatory body was administered through various Alberta Government departments.
Over the years, amendments to the Dental Mechanics Act occurred, such as the inclusion of partial denture treatments and the title of denturist.
1998: Health Professions Act (HPA)
In 1998, the Alberta Government passed the legislation of the Health Professions Act, which is projected to regulate every health profession in the province by 2007. The HPA requires all health professional colleges to follow common rules to investigate complaints and set educational and practice standards for registered members.
2002: Denturist Profession Regulation and Establishment of the College of Alberta Denturists
On September 1, 2002 the Denturist Profession Regulation was proclaimed, establishing the College of Alberta Denturists to regulate the profession in Alberta. Thus began the self-governing of the Denturist Profession in Alberta.
The College ensures public protection through:
- Registration of members
- Maintenance of the memberships
- Approving courses of training and education
- Conducting entry to practice examinations
- Administering the requirements as indicated in the Health Professions Act and the Denturist Regulation with respect to registration and the complaint resolution process
You can only provide denturist services and call yourself a denturist if you are registered with the College and have been issued a practice permit.