Final answer:
Dental hygienists in Ontario are governed by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Dental Hygiene Act, 1991. The College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario is responsible for maintaining professional standards and ensuring compliance with the legal statutes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dental hygienists in Ontario are governed by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Dental Hygiene Act, 1991, which outline the legal statutes and regulations for their practice. These laws specify the scope of practice for dental hygienists, their authorized acts, and the requirements for licensure and professional conduct. For example, dental hygienists in Ontario are allowed to perform dental hygiene procedures, take and analyze dental X-rays, administer local anesthesia, and provide preventive dental care. Additionally, the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO) is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring dental hygienists' compliance with these laws and maintaining professional standards. The CDHO sets the standards for entry into the profession, investigates complaints against dental hygienists, and takes disciplinary actions if necessary. It's important for dental hygienists in Ontario to stay informed about any updates or changes in the legal statutes and regulations governing their practice to ensure they provide safe and quality care to their patients.