Provincial Licensure & Registration
After achieving NDEB Certification, dentists must secure a license from the Dental Regulatory Authority (DRA) in the province or territory where they intend to practice. While the core requirements are consistent nationwide, specific procedures and additional requirements may vary by region.
General Licensure Process
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Obtain NDEB Certification: Successfully complete the National Dental Examining Board of Canada examinations.
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Choose a Province or Territory: Decide where you wish to practice and familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of that region’s DRA.
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Submit Application: Complete and submit the licensure application to the respective DRA, along with the necessary documentation and fees.
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Complete Jurisprudence and Ethics Examination: Some provinces require candidates to pass an examination on local laws, ethics, and regulations.
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Obtain Licensure: Upon approval, receive your license and begin practicing dentistry in that province or territory.
Required Documentation
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Proof of NDEB Certification: Official certificate from the National Dental Examining Board of Canada.
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Dental Degree Transcripts: Official transcripts from your dental education program.
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Proof of Identity: Valid government-issued identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
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Certificate of Standing: If previously licensed elsewhere, a certificate verifying your standing from that jurisdiction.
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Jurisprudence Examination Results: Proof of successful completion, if applicable.
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Additional Requirements: Some DRAs may have unique requirements; consult the specific DRA for details
Additional Considerations
- Language Proficiency: Some provinces may require proof of proficiency in English or French.
- Work Authorization: Ensure you have the appropriate work authorization issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
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Financial Planning:
Consider the costs associated with licensing, including application fees, exam fees, and annual registration dues. These costs vary by province or territory. -
Insurance and Liability Coverage:
Each DRA requires dentists to obtain malpractice insurance. Ensure you are familiar with specific coverage amounts and providers recognized in your chosen province or territory. -
Continuing Education Requirements:
Most provinces mandate ongoing professional development to maintain licensure. Review the specific continuing education (CE) requirements set by your provincial or territorial authority. -
Professional Networks and Support:
Joining local dental associations or networks can be beneficial for professional growth, staying updated on regulatory changes, and accessing mentorship opportunities.
Provincial and Territorial Dental Regulatory Authorities
Alberta
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Regulatory authority: College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA)
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Website: cdsab.ca
British Columbia
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Regulatory authority: BC College of Oral Health Professionals
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Website: oralhealthbc.ca
Manitoba
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Regulatory authority: Manitoba Dental Association
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Website: manitobadentist.ca
New Brunswick
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Regulatory authority: New Brunswick Dental Society
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Website: nbdent.ca
Newfoundland & Labrador
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Regulatory authority: Newfoundland & Labrador Dental Board
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Website: nldb.ca
Northwest Territories
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Regulatory authority: Government of the Northwest Territories – Health and Social Services
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Website: hss.gov.nt.ca
Nova Scotia
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Regulatory authority: Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia
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Website: pdbns.ca
Nunavut
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Regulatory authority: Nunavut Registrar’s Office
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Website: nwtnudentalassociation.ca
Ontario
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Regulatory authority: Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO)
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Website: rcdso.org
Prince Edward Island
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Regulatory authority: Dental Council of Prince Edward Island
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Website: dcpei.ca
Québec
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Regulatory authority: Ordre des dentistes du Québec
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Website: odq.qc.ca
Saskatchewan
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Regulatory authority: College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan
- Website: saskdentists.com
Yukon
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Regulatory authority: Government of Yukon – Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
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Website: yukon.ca