Dentistry is a fulfilling and rewarding career that allows you to improve people’s oral health and quality of life. With Canada’s aging population and increased demand for dental services, the outlook for dentists is auspicious. So, our guide here provides aspiring dentists with everything they need to know about succeeding in this field in Canada.
Whether you’re a student exploring your options or an internationally trained dentist looking to practice in Canada, this guide will help you navigate the steps to becoming a dentist in Canada.
Who is a Dentist in Canada?
A dentist is a regulated healthcare professional specializing in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases, injuries, and disorders affecting the oral cavity. Their primary role is caring for patients’ overall oral health through services like fillings, cleanings, extractions, crowns, dental implants, and more.
Canadian dentists complete at least seven years of post-secondary education and clinical training to obtain the expertise needed to safely and effectively provide these treatments. They must also pass rigorous board examinations and be licensed by provincial dental regulators.
Most Canadian dentists operate private practices, while some work in partnerships or associateships with established dentists. Others are employed in hospitals, community health clinics, universities, and public health settings.
How to Become a Dentist in Canada?
Becoming a licensed dentist in Canada involves two primary pathways, depending on whether the candidate is a domestic student or an internationally trained dentist.
For Canadian-Educated Dentists
The most direct pathway to becoming a dentist in Canada begins with earning an undergraduate degree.
Aspiring dental students must complete at least three years of university studies, typically earning a bachelor’s degree. Required coursework includes biology, general and organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology, and English.
The next step is taking the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). This standardized test assesses academic ability, perceptual skills, reading comprehension, and manual dexterity, all essential for dental school success. A high DAT score significantly improves the chances of acceptance into a dental program.
You must graduate from one of Canada’s 10 accredited dental schools with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. These four-year programs provide the foundational knowledge and intensive clinical experience required for practice.
Currently, there are 10 accredited dental schools in the country, including:
- University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry
- McGill University Faculty of Dentistry
- University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry
- Dalhousie University Faculty of Dentistry
- Western University Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
- Université de Montréal Faculté de médecine dentaire
- Université Laval Faculté de médecine dentaire
- University of Alberta School of Dentistry
- University of Saskatchewan College of Dentistry
- University of Manitoba Faculty of Dentistry
The final step is that all candidates must pass the certification examinations administered by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB). These final board exams (Written & OSCE) are the last step before you can apply for a license to practice from a provincial regulatory body.
For Internationally Trained Dentists
Graduates of dental schools not accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) must complete an equivalency process through the NDEB. The first step is to apply to the NDEB Equivalency Process, during which credentials are verified before beginning the examination sequence.
Candidates must then pass the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK), a multiple-choice exam designed to evaluate foundational knowledge in dentistry. After passing the AFK, two different options are available.
Complete the NDEB Equivalency Process
This pathway involves completing a series of challenging exams to demonstrate that a candidate’s skills are equivalent to those of a Canadian dental school graduate.
- Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ)
This exam evaluates a candidate’s ability to diagnose and formulate treatment plans for clinical cases. Candidates are allowed three attempts to pass.
- National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence™ (NDECC™)
This is a two-day practical exam where candidates perform dental procedures on simulated patients (manikins). It tests both clinical skills and situational judgement. As of 2022, candidates have been permitted unlimited attempts within a five-year timeframe.
- Obtain NDEB Certification
Upon successfully passing the NDECC™, the candidate must then pass the same final NDEB certification exams (Written & OSCE) that Canadian graduates take to become certified.
Apply to a University Bridging Program
This pathway allows for integration into a Canadian dental school to complete training.
With a high AFK score (a score of 90% or more is highly recommended), candidates can apply to a university’s advanced standing or “bridging” program. These are highly competitive.
In addition to a high AFK score, universities typically require:
- Canadian citizenship or permanent residency status.
- A strong GPA from the previous dental program.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL).
- Success in a university-specific interview and/or bench test.
If accepted, the candidate will enroll directly into the third year of a four-year DDS/DMD program. This takes approximately 2 to 2.5 years to complete.
Upon graduating with a Canadian DDS/DMD degree, the candidate will then take the final NDEB certification exams (Written & OSCE) to become certified.
What is the Salary for Dentists in Canada?
As of 2025, the average Dentist Salary in Canada is $191,734 per year, based on self-reported data from 485 dentists nationwide.
Below is a summary of the dentists’ earnings in the highest-paying provinces in Canada:
| Province | Median Salary (CAD per year) | High Salary (CAD per year) |
| Alberta | 120,000 | 270,000 |
| British Columbia | 84,000 | 214,000 |
| Ontario | 104,000 | 210,000 |
What is the Dentist Job Market Outlook in Canada?
The dental profession in Canada is undergoing significant change, shaped by demographic shifts, evolving services, and public health initiatives.
- High Demand for Dentists: Canada is expected to need 13,500 dentists between 2022 and 2031, but will only have 10,500 new qualified graduates, leading to a shortage of 3,000 dentists.
- Impact of an Aging Population: With the baby boomer generation entering older age, the need for ongoing dental care, restorative treatments, and surgical procedures continues to increase.
- Expanded Services: Canadian dentists now provide services beyond general dentistry, including cosmetic procedures like veneers, complex surgeries like dental implants, and specialized fields like orthodontics.
- Growing Role in Public Health: Dentists are playing a larger role in community health programs, helping to expand access to care and promote oral health awareness.
- Employment Growth Drivers: A shortage of professionals due to an aging workforce has created more opportunities for new dentists entering the field.
Together, these forces ensure that dentistry remains a stable, high-demand, and rewarding career path in Canada.
Source: Record numbers – Oral Health Group
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist?
Being a dentist is an inspiring career, and you may wonder how to become one as an immigrant. The good news is that Canada actively recruits foreign-trained dentists to meet the high demand across provinces. There are two main pathways:
Express Entry System
Under the Express Entry system, dentists can qualify for permanent residency in Canada through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and those with high scores receive invitations to apply. Dentistry is often a highly sought-after occupation.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Ontario (OINP), British Columbia (BC PNP), and Alberta (AINP) have streams designed to nominate healthcare professionals, including dentists, for permanent residency. A provincial nomination greatly enhances the strength of an Express Entry profile.
What are the Differences: Canadian vs. International Dentist Pathway Comparison
The process of becoming a licensed dentist in Canada differs depending on where the initial dental education was completed. Each pathway has unique examinations, timelines, and financial considerations.
The table below compares the route for Canadian dental graduates with the two main options for internationally trained dentists after successfully passing the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam.
| Criteria | Canadian Dental Graduates | Internationally Trained Dentists (Equivalency Pathway) | Internationally Trained Dentists (Bridging Program Pathway) |
| Educational Requirement | Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from an accredited Canadian university. | Foreign dental degree from a non-accredited university. | Foreign dental degree from a non-accredited university. |
| Key Examinations | • Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) for admission. • Final NDEB Certification Exams (Written & OSCE) post-graduation. | • AFK • Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ) • National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence (NDECC™) • Final NDEB Certification Exams (Written & OSCE). | • AFK for admission • University-specific bench test and/or interview • Final NDEB Certification Exams (Written & OSCE) post-graduation. |
| Estimated Timeline | 7-8 years total post-secondary: • 3-4 years undergraduate degree • 4 years DDS/DMD program | 2-4+ years post-foreign degree (varies with exam preparation and attempts). | 2.5-3+ years post-foreign degree: • ~6 months AFK prep and application • 2-2.5 years bridging program |
| Estimated Cost (CAD) | $50,000 – $200,000 (total domestic tuition for 4-year DDS/DMD program). | ~$50,000+ (NDEB exam fees, materials, prep courses; higher if retakes required). | Up to $90,000 (bridging program tuition + AFK & NDEB fees). |
International students enrolling directly in a Canadian 4-year DDS/DMD program may face tuition costs of up to $360,000 CAD.
Although the financial investment is high across all routes, support may be available through scholarships, bursaries, and student loans to help manage expenses.
Source: How to Become a Dentist in Canada – Prepdoctors
Key Tips for Aspiring Dentists in Canada
Pursuing a career in dentistry requires thorough academic and professional preparation. The following seven strategies can help guide aspiring dentists on their path to success:
- Begin shadowing dentists and researching education requirements in high school.
- Volunteer or work in dental offices to gain practical skills and reaffirm your career choice.
- Finance your education through savings, student loans, lines of credit, and RESPs.
- Improve communication, empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Understand national and provincial licensing processes before graduating.
- Consider the advantages and disadvantages of specializing in orthodontics versus oral surgery.
- For foreign-trained dentists, research Express Entry and PNPs years in advance.
By following these tips and the steps outlined in this guide, you can fulfill the requirements to become a licensed, practicing dentist in Canada.
Learn more about other professions in Canada here:
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Becoming a Veterinarian in Canada
Becoming An Electrician in Canada
Becoming a Pharmacist in Canada
The Bottom Line
Becoming a dentist in Canada involves significant investments of time, effort, and finances. However, the demand for dental professionals is rising steadily. With proper planning and preparation, dentists can enjoy rewarding, financially stable careers that allow them to make positive impacts through oral healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming A Dentist in Canada
What are the education requirements to become a dentist in Canada?
Canadian dental schools require a bachelor's degree with specific prerequisites: two years of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, plus English and often biochemistry. After acceptance, students complete 4-year DDS/DMD programs followed by NDEB examinations and provincial licensing requirements.
What is the job outlook for dentists in Canada?
Strong demand exists with 2-3% annual growth, creating 500-800 new positions yearly. Urban markets face saturation, while rural areas offer immediate opportunities with $150,000-$200,000 salaries plus incentives. Canada's aging population and 400,000+ annual immigrants ensure sustained demand through 2035.
What is the cost of dental school in Canada?
New graduates earn $90,000-$120,000 as urban associates or $150,000-$200,000 in rural positions. After 3-5 years, practice owners average $200,000-$400,000, depending on location and business management. Specialists earn 20-50% more after additional training.
How many years does it take to become a dentist in Canada?
Traditional Canadian students need 8-9 years minimum: four years for an undergraduate degree, another four years in dental school (DDS/DMD), plus 3-6 months for licensing exams. Internationally trained dentists can qualify in 2-5 years through equivalency exams or bridging programs, depending on their pathway and exam success.
Can a foreign dentist work in Canada?
Yes, foreign-trained dentists can practice in Canada through two main pathways: completing the NDEB equivalency process (AFK, ACJ, NDECC, plus Written/OSCE exams) or enrolling in 2-3 year bridging programs at Canadian dental schools. Both routes lead to full licensure after meeting provincial requirements.
Is it hard to get into dentistry in Canada?
Extremely competitive Canadian dental schools accept less than 10% of applicants. Successful candidates typically have GPAs above 3.7, DAT scores of 21+, extensive volunteering, and dental shadowing experience. International students face additional barriers with limited seats and higher tuition requirements.
What is the fastest you can become a dentist?
The absolute fastest route is 7 years for exceptional Canadian students using accelerated 3-year undergraduate programs. For internationally trained dentists, the quickest path is 18-24 months through NDEB equivalency exams, assuming first-attempt passes on all examinations.
Is becoming a dentist harder than becoming a doctor?
Both professions require similar academic excellence and time commitments. Dental school admission is statistically more competitive due to fewer programs (10 dental vs 17 medical schools in Canada). However, medical residencies add 2-7 years post-graduation, making the total physician training longer.
Do I need to speak French to practice dentistry in Quebec?
Yes, Quebec requires French proficiency through the OQLF examination for permanent practice permits. Temporary permits allow limited English practice in specific settings. Other provinces don't have language requirements beyond English proficiency for international applicants.
Becoming a dentist after being a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists receive advanced standing consideration at some schools but must still complete standard prerequisites and full dental programs. Previous clinical experience strengthens applications, but no accelerated pathways exist specifically for hygienists, except for the standard 8-year timeline.
