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.
We’ll cover the essential education requirements, licensing process, job prospects, average salaries, immigration pathways for international graduates, and tips for developing the necessary skills.
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 and maxillofacial region. 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?
For Canadians seeking to become dentists, there are two main educational routes:
Undergraduate Dental Program Pathway
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.
Graduating from an accredited dental program is mandatory to practice dentistry in Canada. 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 completing a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program. These degrees provide clinical experience and foundational knowledge to become a licensed dentist. Students earn their dental degree upon graduation, marking a significant milestone toward entering the profession.
Bridging Programs for Internationally Trained Dentists
Internationally trained dentists seeking to practice in Canada can enroll in a bridging program to transition into the Canadian dental system.
The first step in this process is passing the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam, administered by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB). Achieving a high score, particularly above 90%, significantly enhances the chances of acceptance into a bridging program.
Once the AFK is completed, candidates can apply for a university bridging program. These intensive two-year programs integrate internationally trained dentists into the final years of a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program.
They provide calibration training in Canadian dental practices to ensure graduates meet national standards. Institutions such as the University of Toronto, Western University, and the University of Alberta offer these bridging programs.
Upon completing the program, graduates earn a DDS or DMD degree, making them eligible to proceed with the NDEB licensing process required to practice dentistry in Canada. However, these programs can be costly, with tuition and fees reaching CAD 90,000. Despite the expense, they provide a structured and efficient pathway for internationally trained dentists to establish careers in Canada.
What is the Licensing and Certification Process for Dentists in Canada?
To legally practice dentistry in Canada, candidates must complete the following certification process:
National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB)
The National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) oversees the certification process for dentists seeking to practice in Canada. To qualify, candidates must pass rigorous exams to assess clinical competency and knowledge in dentistry.
The key examinations administered by the NDEB include the National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence™ (NDECC™), the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), and written exams covering restorative dentistry, oral health, and ethical considerations. These assessments ensure that candidates meet Canadian dental standards and are prepared to provide safe and effective patient care.
Upon successfully passing the required exams, candidates receive a Certificate of Qualification. This credential allows them to apply for provincial licensure, which is necessary to practice dentistry in Canada legally.
Provincial Licensing Authorities
Obtaining a provincial or territorial license is mandatory to practice dentistry in Canada. Each region has its own regulatory body responsible for licensing qualified dentists. For example, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) regulates dental professionals in Ontario.
At the same time, the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia (CDSBC) oversees licensing in British Columbia. Dentists must be licensed in Quebec by the Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ).
In addition to meeting the general licensing requirements, some regulatory bodies may require candidates to complete additional examinations and interviews or provide further documentation before granting licensure.
Once licensed, Canadian dentists must renew their certification annually by fulfilling continuing education requirements set by their respective regulatory bodies. This ensures that dental professionals stay updated with advancements in the field and continue to provide high-quality care.
What are the Salary and Job Market Trends for Dentists in Canada?
The high demand for dentists in Canada makes it a promising career path. Here are the key salary and job market highlights:
Dentist Salary Overview
As of 2025, the average Dentist Salary in Canada is CAD 182,838, based on self-reported data from 493 dentists nationwide. However, salaries can vary significantly, ranging from CAD 142,300 to CAD 418,700 per year.
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 |
Dentist Job Market Outlook
How has the dental industry in Canada changed in recent years? Let’s look at the main trends shaping the future of dentistry.
- 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.
- Aging Population: As baby boomers age, the demand for regular dental care, tooth restoration, and oral surgeries is growing.
- 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.
- Public Health: More Canadian dentists are involved in community programs, improving access to care and promoting oral health literacy.
Several factors contribute to this employment growth, including increased government investment in public dental programs, which has expanded access to dental care. Additionally, a shortage of professionals due to an aging workforce has created more opportunities for new dentists entering the field. Population growth and the ongoing need for regular dental care further drive demand, ensuring dentistry remains a stable and rewarding career choice in Canada.
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).
Applicants must have at least six months of continuous work experience as a dentist within the past three years to be eligible. The selection process is based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points for factors such as education, language proficiency, and work experience. Higher scores improve a candidate’s chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Additionally, the Canadian government frequently conducts targeted draws, prioritizing dentists for immigration to help address labour shortages in the healthcare sector.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Ontario (OINP), British Columbia (BC PNP), and Alberta (AINP) provide expedited pathways for dentists seeking permanent residency in Canada. These programs prioritize candidates with job offers, in-demand occupations, or strong ties to the province.
Securing a nomination through a PNP significantly speeds up the immigration process, as nominees receive priority processing for their permanent residency applications. This makes PNPs an attractive option for dentists looking to establish their careers in Canada more quickly.
What are the Differences: Canadian vs. International Dentist Pathway Comparison
Becoming a dentist in Canada requires a substantial financial investment. Domestic students’ tuition for a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program ranges from $50,000 to $200,000 CAD, depending on the university and additional student fees.
The National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) equivalency process costs approximately CAD 50,000, covering exams, licensing, and study materials. Internationally trained dentists enrolling in bridging programs can expect to pay around CAD 90,000, which includes tuition, non-academic fees, and application costs.
Tuition for international students in Canada for a DDS/DMD program can reach up to $360,000 CAD. However, financial aid options such as scholarships, bursaries, and student loans can help offset these expenses.
Here is a comparison of the key differences in pathways for domestic and foreign-trained dentists:
| Criteria | Canadian Dental Graduates | Internationally Trained Dentists |
| Education | DDS/DMD from accredited school | Foreign dental degree + equivalency exams/bridging program |
| Licensing Process | Direct NDEB certification | NDEB equivalency process or bridging program |
| Time to Practice | 4–6 years | 2–4 years after degree completion |
| Cost | $50,000–$200,000 CAD | $90,000–$360,000 CAD |
Source: https://ca.prepdoctors.com/how-to-become-a-dentist-in-canada-ndeb
Key Tips for Aspiring Dentists in Canada
If you’re pursuing dentistry as a career, here are some top tips:
- Start early: Begin shadowing dentists and researching education requirements in high school.
- Get experience: Volunteer or work in dental offices to gain practical skills and reaffirm your career choice.
- Prepare for costs: Finance your education through savings, student loans, lines of credit, and RESPs.
- Develop soft skills: Improve communication, empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Research licensing: Understand national and provincial licensing processes before graduating.
- Consider specialization: Weigh the costs and benefits of specializing in orthodontics or oral surgery.
- Explore immigration: For foreign-trained dentists, research express entry and PNPs years in advance.
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 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
Here are the FAQs that You need to know before becoming a dentist in Canada.
What are the education requirements to become a dentist in Canada?
To become a dentist in Canada, the minimum education requirements are: > Completing at least 3 years of an undergraduate degree, typically a bachelor's degree focused on science prerequisites. > Achieving competitive scores on the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) > Graduating from an accredited 4-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program > Passing the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) examinations > Obtaining licensure from a provincial regulatory body.
How long does it take to become a dentist in Canada?
The typical timeline to become a licensed dentist in Canada is: > 2-4 years for undergraduate prerequisites: At least 3 years for a bachelor's degree is required. Many complete a 4-year undergraduate program. > 4 years for dental school: DDS/DMD programs are 4 years in length. > 1 year for licensing: The NDEB process and provincial licensing takes approximately 12 months post-graduation. Therefore, the minimum total time is 7 years (3 years undergraduate + 4 years dental school). With a 4-year bachelor's, the total is commonly 8 years.
What is the cost of dental school in Canada?
The cost of dental school in Canada for domestic students is generally $50,000 to $200,000 CAD for a 4-year DDS/DMD program. However, costs vary among universities. For international students, tuition fees for Canadian dental schools can range from $250,000 to $360,000 CAD in total for the 4-year program. These costs include both academic fees and additional costs like instruments, equipment, supplies, and clinics.
How much do dentists earn in Canada?
The average salary for dentists in Canada is: > Median National Salary: $118,394 per year > Entry-level: $30,128 per year > Senior-level: Up to $344,374 per year (potential top salary) Salaries vary considerably by province, experience level, specialty, and practice type (private vs. public).
What is the job outlook for dentists in Canada?
The job outlook for dentists in Canada is very strong. According to government labour projections, 13,500 job openings for dentists are expected nationally between 2022-2031. However, only 10,500 newly certified dentists will be available, creating a shortage. The prospects are best in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, rated as "very good". Other provinces also show above average outlooks.