Community Testimonials
The Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries has been collaborating with The Four Villages Community Health Centre since 2009. Dental hygiene students, accompanied and supervised by a clinical instructor, provide dental screening and education for children ages 2 to 6 years and their parents/caregivers. The dental screening is a key component of the Healthy Child Screening, which includes assessments from nurses, dietitians, speech and language pathologists, social workers, settlement workers, optometrists, and hearing screeners from a variety of community agencies. Many families attending the screening are newcomers, have little knowledge of English, low-income, and may have limited access to health services including dental care. Students see first-hand the value of collaborating with other health professionals to improve both individual and community health. The Healthy Child Screening program enables students to give back to the community while benefiting the families in attendance. Students of The Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries are professional, reliable, punctual, approachable, and enthusiastic in dealing with staff and families alike.
Student Testimonials
I was a complete novice when I first entered this school. , not even knowing how to hold the instrument. Today, as I graduate, I realize how TCDHA has prepared me to confidently enter the market and pursue my career. Reflecting on my journey, I am amazed at how this school has polished me. Everyone told me the course would be intense, but with the guidance of experienced instructors who stood beside us every day in clinics for long hours, I thrived. The well-organized syllabus allowed us to complete the course in just 18 months, which is truly commendable.
I cannot overstate the value of the rad labs, dental labs, and clinics, all equipped with every minor necessity. It feels like you just jump into this pool, and TCDHA ensures you never sink.
The instructors at our Toronto dental hygiene college are exceptional. Their expertise and commitment enrich our academic experience profoundly. They teach with passion and precision, covering both foundational principles and cutting-edge clinical practices. Beyond the classroom, they mentor us with invaluable advice, nurturing our growth. Their dedication creates a thriving learning environment where aspirations flourish. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn from such inspiring educators who empower us to excel in dental hygiene profession.
My experience at TCDHA has been nothing short of exceptional! Thank you doesn’t adequately express my gratitude for the professors, clinical staff, and program directors during my time here. The rich engagement, knowledge and practices that are taught throughout the program are skills that will stick with me for the rest of my life. My academic journey has been incredibly rewarding and challenging; all the teachers are uplifting and accepting, which makes for a great learning environment. The school truly cares and invests into the success of their students by helping you achieve your professional goals. TCDHA has challenged and prepared me for the real world in the best way possible, I have to say it was one of the best experiences of my life and I’m incredibly grateful to study at a school that aligns with my passion for dentistry. The people I have met and the memories I have made here will have a special place in my heart forever.
Attending the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries was one of the best decisions of my life. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the program offered here was a perfect balance between didactic, clinical and group activities which helped me develop the skills required to become a successful dental professional. My experience here has helped me grow as a student and also as a person. The faculty are extremely inspiring and are very caring and want to see every student succeed. The facilities at the TCDHA were exemplary and allowed us students to practice in a professional and competent manner within the defined scope of practice. The relationships I’ve developed, the experiences I’ve had and the memories from TCDHA will last a lifetime and I will cherish these moments fondly.
My experience at TCDHA, and particularly in the Dental Hygiene Program has been invaluable. The program was both challenging and supportive. The faculty are very knowledgeable, encouraging, and willing to accommodate students in every way possible. My journey at TCDHA has truly been transformative. I learned to push myself beyond my limits, and I obtained skills and techniques which will provide a head start to an amazing career in dental hygiene. Lastly, I want to thank all my instructors and the staff members for providing a smooth and enjoyable environment for me at TCDHA.
My experience at TCDHA was very rewarding and stressful at the same time. I am grateful for the decision I made to chose to become a successful dental hygienist. I would like to thank all the faculty for their endless support and encouragement through the last 18 months. It has been a privilege to attend this school, and I will always be forever grateful!
My time at TCDHA has been life changing. With the incredible experiences volunteering in the community, in the clinic or even in the classrooms, I had the opportunity to grow as a professional. All the knowledge, skills and obstacles faced would have been impossible without the faculty at TCDHA and the friends I have made. Thank you for making this experience unforgettable!
Abby always said, “Live in the moment”. This approach led me through the Dental Hygiene program more smoothly than I ever expected. I was quite apprehensive to choose my profession in Canada as a newcomer, but I am grateful for the decision I made and to choose TCDHA as my first step in Canada. Thanks to my amazing and wonderful instructors, and all other staff for boosting my confidence and for giving me a push when I needed it. Cheers to a great dental hygiene career!
My experience at TCDHA was amazing, with lots of ups and downs throughout the 18 months, but having family and friends by my side made it a lot of fun and easy going. Always remember one thing – enjoy each and every moment that comes along in your life. This program is a big challenge in the beginning, but after a while it flies by. Always support each other in class, that is your family for 18 months. I would like to thank all my instructors, parents, god, and family for always being there.
My experience at TCDHA was thrilling, stressful and fulfilling all at the same time. The program drove me to reach my goals and brought out the best of me. Huge shout out to all instructors who helped us, encouraged us, and treated us like family especially since most of us are from out of province. To all students, enjoy and stay in the moment. “Your speed doesn’t matter, forward is forward”.
It was a privilege to attend TCDHA, the experience was both challenging and rewarding. Although the program had its obstacles, it was made easier with the help of the school’s dedicated faculty. The faculty both in clinic as well as lecture from the first to last semester ensures the students’ success. I am thankful for the skills and knowledge I have obtained at this program needed to be successful in the dental hygiene profession.
I want to thank all of the amazing staff at TCDHA for giving us an opportunity to grow by constantly pushing us. It’s been an amazing experience being able to meet so many great people.
TCDHA helped me to sharpen my knowledge and skills along with a positive attitude. Their program is world-class! The experience I gained here will truly be beneficial in my chosen field and I am forever thankful to the staff, instructors, friends and clients. I earned many things from them!
I was initially apprehensive about going back to school but I am so glad I did! My experience at TCDHA was nothing short of amazing! After a lot of hard work I can feel confident that I am ready for a career in the dental industry. I will forever cherish the peers and faculty who helped me get to this point.
My experience at TCDHA was altogether challenging yet highly rewarding because of the way it has completely changed me… It has allowed me to break away from comfort zone, shown me what I was capable of (especially in times of doubt) and improved my overall work ethic and for that, I will always be forever grateful!
My time at TCDHA was a very good experience. The faculty and instructors are very supportive. They take their time to instruct you and are always very professional. By the end of the program you will feel comfortable and confidently, so you can be successful as a dental hygienist.
My experience at TCDHA has been unforgettable since day one. I am glad I decided to pursue my career as a dental hygienist here at TCDHA. Through my experience, I came across many wonderful, amazing and inspiring individuals. The faculty goes above and beyond, every single step of the way to help us accomplish our goals and vision.
During the whole course of the program, we had the change to learn and enjoy every single moment, thanks to our amazing faculty members. We had the chance to learn something different from each different instructor. Now I have confidence in both my skills and knowledge to provide superior dental hygiene services to my future clients. Thank you everyone involved in TCDHA
My experience at TCDHA has been amazing, 18 months flew right by. Along the way I met life long friends and experienced the best time of my life along with it. Moving from Alberta to Toronto wasn’t the easiest decision but it was one decision I don’t regret. I have become a more independent individual and I can’t wait to leave this school as a working professional.
Lila always say, “Write from the heart.” My interpretation of this? Work from the heart. Love what you’re doing and you will be successful.
It was a great joy and pride that the 18 months of learning in a conducive environment of this school have also significantly contributed to the success I know rep…passing my current board exam. To our instructors who have patiently unearthed the hidden knowledge. The hardships, sacrifices and struggles that I had surpassed. Lastly the love and support of my family were my greatest inspiration in my journey towards achieving my goal. TCDHA had given me the much needed strengths to be more confident in my guest to finish the profession that I have endeavored to attain.
It’s been a wonderful and busy experience. The staff has made this journey successful and pleasant. Stay positive and work as a team, you will all make it to the end!
Looking back on the last 18 months of hard work here at TCDHA, I am happy to say that I made the best decision. I am so grateful for the opportunity the TCDHA has given me.
My experience at TCDHA was amazing, I am very happy that I chose this school to pursue my career in the dental hygiene field. This school is full of amazing friendly staff that help you every step of the way. At times I thought it was impossible to keep going but with the help of all the staffs, instructors and my fellow peers; I was able to pursue my dream as a dental hygienist.
This program taught me so much about myself on a personal, academic, and professional level. I met so many great people and I would love to thank all of faculty for helping me achieve and push me through all the way to the end!Will miss everyone especially Dr. Balter, my number 1 supporter.
My experience at TCDHA has been unforgettable. I have learned beyond what I thought I was capable of. The knowledge learned has given me confidence to face the real world. I am thankful for the opportunity to pursue what I love. Hard work yields a profit and as long as you have the will TCDHA has shows me that there is indeed a way. TCDHA… you will be missed!
I love all the faculty!
My experience at TCDHA was more than just amazing. TCDHA faculty members and instructors taught me a lot, not just about dental hygiene, but also about real life experiences. I felt like I was part of a big family!
I take pride in my time at TCDHA. Not because of what I had accomplished or because of the obstacles that I had endured, but because I know none of it would of been possible without the love and support of every single one of the instructors and staff. That alone will remain with me forever.
My success here at TCDHA was memorable. I had great instructors, faculty and friends who gave me support. I am now honoured to be leaving as a graduate, fulfilling my dream in the dental community and never forgetting where I’ve come from. Dental Assisting Level I was a high standard, and completing Dental Assisting Level II makes me want to go out and see new things.
As a TCDHA graduate, I have now begun my full-time wonderful journey.
Valedictorian Speech on October 2nd 2014
Good afternoon fellow graduates, friends, family, Dean of students, Dr. Pulec, Business director, Ms. Lidia DiNicolo, program coordinator, Mrs. Lila Mc Indoe and the faculty of TCDHA. It is a great honor to be here. These past 18 months have flown by and it is hard to believe that before we know it we will be out in the working environment.
Before I begin, I would like to take a moment to thank all of you sitting here today for giving me this opportunity to speak in front of you on this special occasion. When I first came to this school I was unsure I would even handle the workload let alone be standing here today as your valedictorian and I am extremely proud to represent the graduating class of 2014. I would also like to thank the faculty at TCDHA for giving us each a piece of something to take with us into the dental hygiene field.
As a class, we have been through more than we could have imagined in these past 18 months. Some more difficult to face than others. Especially those of us with children who know it’s not easy to do our homework when our kids are trying to color in our textbooks. Or study for a test when they are crying. At first I felt guilty not spending enough time with my son because of school, but I kept telling myself that sacrifice is only temporary, but I will be a college graduate forever. As I stand up here today and all my hard work has paid off, I know my son and family are so proud of me. As I am sure all of you are as proud of all your graduates sitting here today. Yet we are sitting here for a reason. We are here because of our goals and dreams that have pushed us to accomplish all things. Look into the stands and to others around you. Every single person sitting here today sees something in you and believes that you will do great things in your lives. It doesn't matter what your plans are, or what you consider to be "great things." Just remember that you can. You can try, you can fail, and you can try again.
Graduation is a new start with new opportunities and no matter what path you choose to follow as you progress into your future, you will be the best that you can be. Not only am I excited to see what lies ahead, I know that the people sitting here today and the people that support you feel the same way about you. Today we have the good feel factor that comes from knowing that we have done our best. We have achieved and qualified. We didn’t do it alone of course. All along the way we had the wonderful support of our families and the encouragement and help of our faculty. Today, though, as mature and newly qualified adults, we recognize that without that backup we could not have succeeded. So today I know my fellow students would like to join me in saying how much we appreciate all those who have helped make this day possible. Finally, I would like to wish my fellow graduates health and happiness in the future and the satisfaction of knowing that whatever they do they will do it well.
After all they are graduates of TCDHA and that is just another name for the college of excellence. Congratulations, Class of 2014. And thank you.
In 2013, I took a leap of faith to move to Toronto and pursue a career in Dental Hygiene.
During my 18 months at TCDHA, I gained an incredible amount of dental knowledge, career opportunities, and personal growth. I've had the joy of interacting with truly passionate staff & instructors who genuinely cared about the development and success of every student. They were also instrumental in making my move across the country a lot easier. Their enthusiasm and encouragement allowed me to not only become a competent dental hygienist, but also opened the doors for me to be a student leader with CDHA, and work with both Crest Oral-B and Colgate.
After graduating from TCDHA I am excited to now pursue my education further, working towards completing a degree in Health Administration: an opportunity available to me through TCDHA's articulation agreement with Athabasca University.
I want to thank the faculty and staff for believing in me when I did not believe in myself, to push me when I needed the extra encouragement and to comfort me when completing the program felt impossible. I strongly would recommend TCDHA to anyone who would like to begin their journey to a rewarding and wonderful career in Dental Hygiene.
It all started with a phone call to TCDHA. The Business Director, Ms Lidia DiNicolo was extremely warm and took the time to answer all of my questions about the Dental Assisting Level I & Office Administration Program. I knew that this was the exceptional learning institution for me and my future.
Ana Puntillo was responsible for the theoretical classroom learning and practical radiography. Ana understood the struggles I was facing with family health issues as I attempted this demanding program. You will never meet a more thorough, caring, and encouraging instructor to all of her students.
In addition, the mandatory and very valuable Co-Operative Education Student Placement hours I performed allowed me to obtain a contract position within the practice upon graduation.Very soon after that, I was able to secure a Chiropractor Admin Assistant Front Desk position. This 32 week program has definitely attributed to me being a successful candidate for dental or medical related positions.
I have truly grown as a person having attained great confidence and pride knowing that I help people achieve good health, as well as having improved my communication skills and self-motivation. Lastly, Julie Tye, Assistant to the Business Director, was extremely informative, kind, helpful, and very prompt in answering my many questions along the way, i.e., when dealing with OSAP, etc. The entire staff and students at TCDHA were extremely friendly and respectful.
While studying at Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries, I grew as an individual, learning to interact and talk to people from different backgrounds. I chose to study at Toronto College of Dental Hygiene because I wanted to study at the highest level and stretch my mind. During my studies, I felt that college environment was very friendly starting from the factually to students. I can not ignore the highly cooperative administration, business director and best instructor of the program. The staff at the college did not treat me like a number; they treated me like an individual and understanding student's needs. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone interested in pursuing a career in Dental Assisting.
As a student at Toronto College of Dental hygiene and Auxiliary, I always felt really good. The Instructor was not only very friendly, but also very professional and always promoted intellectual growth.
One of the most positive aspects of the program is the faculty. The various modules, and lectures, the instructor was always willing to help me, and simply to discuss things that interested me and other students as well.
I think that because the classes are relatively small, the relationship between instructor and students is able to flourish. I personally benefited a great deal from the relationship I formed with my instructor.
It was extremely valuable for me to have the opportunity to be in a small group. It enriched my experience enormously and I feel that I personally benefited from the size of the class and the individual attention from the instructor.
When I first decided to further my education in order to get my dental assisting, I didn't quite know where to go. I was looking for a prestigious program and colleges, one well known for having an outstanding faculty. It is exactly what I found in this program.
All the courses and the instructors are great. They are all knowledgeable of the subjects they teach and know how to keep the interest of the classes. I consider myself fortunate to have studied in this program. My instructor instructions and my participation as a dental assistant are some of the most invaluable experiences that I have gained in my studies.
This program provided me with the knowledge and confidence necessary to succeed in a dental field. I would recommend it to prospective students who want to learn about dental field from an experienced faculty. The graduate program for dental assisting at Toronto Collage of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliary played an integral role in my career.
As a graduate of dental assistant I received superior pedagogical instruction and guidance along with the requisite experience to be in a dental field. The courses helped to broaden my thinking and perspectives while providing me with a solid education in dental.
I couldn’t be happier picking any other career path than dental hygiene. I feel that I can make a big difference for my future clients and enhance their motivation for dental hygiene. I am very excited to start this new path in my life and feel confident in doing so. Thank you TCDHA for helping me achieve my goals.
My journey all started with a phone call to the school asking for information. I was greeted with warmth and offered to write the entrance exam that very week. From the moment I received my passing grade the adventure started. I have a background in languages and literature so the sciences were very foreign to me. During my first semester I found the courses extremely difficult as the majority were science based. One of the programs that made my journey possible was the peer mentor program. Students in good academic and clinical standings in their fourth (final) semester can apply to be mentors to those in first and second semester requiring a little extra help. From day one I knew that if I was to succeed I needed to take full advantage of any help I could get, so each week I signed up for help and I got better and better. By the time I got to 3rd semester I was sitting with an overall average over 90% and by fourth I felt very comfortable in all of my subjects. I applied to the peer mentor program to give back. I loved being part of the program as it gave me the opportunity to help fellow students as well as give me the possibility to reinforce techniques I may not have practiced in a while. The program as a whole is a challenge, but not impossible. It requires strength of mind, body and character at all times and perseverance to the end. My experience at TCDHA is one I have enjoyed and will hold dear to me forever.
When I was younger, I always knew that I wanted to be a health care professional. I had tried my hand at a few positions within a hospital environment but ultimately I decided that Dental Hygiene was for me. I remember making the initial call to the college. I had so many questions, concerns and fears but after speaking with the staff all my questions had been answered and my fears were erased. I had an immediate feeling that this was the school for me. It has taken a lot of hard work and determination to get to where I am today but it all paid off. I am now on the way to a bright future and it’s all thanks to the TCDHA.
I have built numerous lifelong relationships with the students, instructors and support staff. My 18 months with the college has been nothing less than amazing. With many of TCDHA students coming from across Canada it has been a hard journey with no family, friends and familiar places but we have come together as a family. We have all been there for one another and will never forget the love and support that we received at these times.
I personally believe that the faculty and support staff truly care about their students. I was able to turn to them, not only for advice about school, but whenever I needed some words of encouragement, support and guidance. Throughout my time at the college, I felt that the instructors made an effort to get to know me on a friendly basis in order to asses my needs as a student and support me in my endeavors. They were always there to lend a helping hand and give us a little extra push in order to challenge us to do our best, without them we wouldn't have made it this far. Thank you TCDHA
I earned my diploma from TCDHA in 2012, and have since been working as a registered dental hygienist in Ontario. This college has provided me with the necessary resources and tools to earn a diploma in Dental Hygiene, and successfully write the national dental hygiene board exam. Aside from the academic support, I was able to gain new insight into the dental field. I was able to utilize my newly acquired knowledge and skills in providing premium care and service to individuals inside the clinic, and to the community as a whole.
During my time in TCDHA, I worked with a diverse group of students and faculty coming from all walks of life. Together we learned how to work as a team to provide the best care for clients, while working towards our own personal /academic goals. The wonderful faculty at TCDHA always encouraged me to work to my potential, and trained me to be the best dental hygienist in all aspects of the profession. My hands-on experience in the clinical facility and practice labs helped me refine my skills, improve my dexterity, and enhance my technical ability. Professionalism is a big theme at the college, and one that I have been able to use to my advantage in applying for positions, communicating with colleagues and other health care professionals, and towards my own goals in regards to continuing education and entrepreneurship. TCDHA has a very demanding program, but it is also a very rewarding one. TCDHA has opened up new doors for me, and exposed me to countless opportunities in and out of the dental field.
I was in one of the founding TCDHA classes, and I credit the faculty and staff with fostering the educational building blocks that have allowed me to pursue a successful career in dental hygiene. Qualified, competent and driven to success, they provided me with the toolkit necessary to meet all the challenges I have faced in my professional career. TCDHA exemplifies innovation and success, as can be seen by its recent affiliation with Athabasca, Brock and other leading Canadian universities.
When I decided to broaden my dental career by pursuing a degree in Dental Surgery, the knowledge and skills I acquired at TCDHA have undoubtedly given me an edge over many of my classmates in dentistry who do not have such a rigorous educational background in dental sciences. I developed lifelong friendships at TCDHA, and would not substitute the experience for anything else. If you serious about pursuing a career in dental hygiene, don't look any further than TCDHA.