Professional Development Justification Toolkit

Are you seeking to enhance your skills, knowledge, and professional judgment, stay up-to-date, and improve your client care?

Whether you're planning to attend a CDHA in-person event or register for an online learning opportunity, advocating for employer support can be a powerful step in your career. Use this information to self-advocate for employer support for professional development today!

Why It Matters

Investing in professional development benefits you and your employer. CDHA understands that professional development is vital—and that dental hygienists deserve the opportunity to request financial support for learning.

How to Ask

Even if your employer hasn’t subsidized professional development before, start the conversation. Show how your learning benefits your team, clients, and clinical practice.

FREE Resources

Green checkmark icon Request Letter Template: Customize to request support from your employer.

Green checkmark icon Cost Analysis Worksheet: Create a clear budget for expenses and savings.

Green checkmark icon Tips & Talking Points: Confidently discuss the value of professional development.

Green checkmark icon Demonstrate Value: Explain how you’ll contribute to the practice.

Cost-Saving Ideas

  • Subscribe to airline offers like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter for travel discounts.
  • Allocate part of your tax refund for registration fees or travel expenses.
  • Share accommodations with a friend or carpool if you live locally.
  • Create a budget and set aside money monthly.
  • Maintain CDHA membership for registration discounts.

Membership Benefits

CDHA members enjoy early bird pricing, unlimited free webinars, virtual events, podcasts, and discounts on conferences and courses.

Presenting a well-reasoned case shows commitment to growth, offers value to your employer, and increases your chance of gaining support. CDHA believes in workplaces that recognize dental hygienists’ expertise and support professional development.