Empower Your Passion at CDHA’s 2026 National Conference!

November 12–14, 2026 | Halifax, Nova Scotia

Join us for three unforgettable days of inspiration, innovation, and connection at CDHA’s 2026 national conference! This premier event is designed exclusively for dental hygienists and offers top-tier professional development in a lively, collaborative, and empowering environment that celebrates the profession like no other event in Canada.

Immerse yourself in cutting-edge learning with renowned experts in oral health, research, academia, and industry. Spark meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, and explore new perspectives with colleagues over coffee, hors d’oeuvres, delicious meals, and lively events and plenary sessions.

Discover the future of dental hygiene in our vibrant exhibit hall, where you can experience the latest products, technologies, and equipment from top dental industry partners.

Whether you're looking to elevate your clinical practice, expand your professional network, or simply have fun with fellow dental hygienists, this is the event you won’t want to miss.

Mark your calendars now—registration opens spring 2026!

5 Reasons to Attend

15+ expert-led dental hygiene sessions!
Hear from renowned, leading subject matter experts and professionals from academia and industry.

Reignite your passion for dental hygiene.
Build meaningful relationships with your peers, mentors, and industry leaders who share your commitment to oral health.

Elevate your expertise.
Gain cutting-edge and evidence-informed strategies to enhance your clinical practice.

Celebrate your impact.
Leave feeling recognised, uplifted, and proud of the difference you make every day.

Swag and surprises!
You might need an extra suitcase for all the product samples distributed in the exhibit hall and the prizes you’re eligible to win.

What’s New in 2026?

Closing Keynote Plenary
This year, we’re ending the conference with a powerful keynote session you won’t want to miss. This energetic finale will motivate, inspire, and leave you with fresh perspectives to elevate your clinical practice! Join us for “Mental Skills Training” with TedX speaker Bryan Fader.

Exhibit Hall: Extended Hours!
We heard you loud and clear! Inspired by your voice, the exhibit hall is now open on Friday, November 13, and Saturday, November 14, giving you more time to get hands-on with the latest products, technologies, and equipment from leading dental industry partners.

More Education-Focussed Sessions
Although the peer-reviewed scientific program was a valuable part of previous conferences, this year we have decided to incorporate more traditional education-focussed sessions, providing you with more of the learning opportunities you have come to enjoy featuring renowned subject matter experts!

Lunch & Learning Labs
Enjoy your lunch, network with your peers, and learn about the topics that matter most to you! This informal learning and networking opportunity will encourage you to learn with and from each other.

Live! CJDH Between The Lines Video Podcast
Join us live and in person for our video podcast featuring Salme Lavigne, scientific editor of the Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene (CJDH), in conversation with an author of a recently published CJDH article with important implications for dental hygiene practice. This is your chance to watch the podcast in real time, ask questions, and connect directly with thought leaders shaping the future of dental hygiene.

Relaxation Station
Join us at the welcome reception on the tradeshow floor on Friday evening, November 13, for a moment of relaxation and a 10-minute massage!

Special Events & Featured Sessions

Preconference Workshop
Join your colleagues for an engaging, hands-on learning and networking event on Thursday, November 12. This full-day workshop takes place at Dalhousie University and includes a light breakfast and lunch.

Opening Keynote Plenary
Kick off your conference journey with an inspiring keynote presentation on Friday, November 13! This all-attendee session will leave you feeling inspired, recognized, and rejuvenated. Join us for “The Joy of the Career!” with motivational speaker and comedian Jody Urquhart.

Product Showcase: 10 for 10!
This session sells out every year, so we’ve increased the room capacity! Want to learn more about cutting-edge dental hygiene products and technologies? Then this interactive, fast-paced learning experience is for you!

Independent Practice Networking Breakfast
Do you own or are you interested in owning a dental hygiene practice? Join current and future independent dental hygienists to discuss issues and opportunities relevant to dental hygiene entrepreneurs.

Welcome Reception & Tradeshow
Network with colleagues and industry partners over refreshments and hors d'oeuvres on Friday evening, November 13, and while you’re there, stop by the relaxation station for a 10-minute massage!

Exhibit Hall Giveaways
Be one of the first 100 attendees through the door at the start of lunch on Friday, November 13, or Saturday, November 14, and receive a special exhibit hall opening giveaway!

Note: Check back often! Conference topics, speakers, and sponsors are subject to change, and new elements will be announced as they become available.

What Members had to say about our last conference:

“I highly recommend these conferences... if you ever feel that you need to be re-charged in your profession... this is exactly what you need! Connecting with old friends, making new ones, gathering information and ideas.... yes, and being silly at times too! Just block out the time in your appointment book and COME!!!!”

“The perfect mix of fun events and incredible learning opportunities. I loved meeting hygienists from all over the country and collaborating with those from all different dental hygiene backgrounds. Can’t wait for the next one!”

“Absolutely awesome! Fantastic speakers, beautiful location, great company! I wish conference was every year as I don't want to wait 2 years to do this all again!! Proud to be a CDHA RDH ❤️”