Dentist fees are high in Alberta due to high overhead - net income isn't better- Alberta dentists are not making a killing as suggested by those who don't work in the profession. The hygiene training program in Alberta is at least TWICE  what is really needed, but the GOV'T doesn't step in and help private hygiene colleges (like they have in Ontario). The Alberta gov't imposed an extremely expensive sterilization protocol which is not applied in BC or Mexico. The Alberta Dental Association & College frowns on the advertising of 'free consultations' and 'senior appreciation (discount) days'...some dentists have been punished for doing charitable work. The advertising rules are strategically used against general dentists by groups of specialists who fear competition. The lawyers at the dental authority are charging dentists astronomical amounts for 'website violations' ...the Health Minister looks the other way stomping her feet for a lower fee guide that will INCREASE balances for most.