Determine Your Eligibility
Are You Eligible to Become a Licensed Dentist in Canada?
To begin your journey toward dental licensure in Canada, you must first determine whether your dental education is from an accredited or non-accredited program. This classification determines the pathway you must follow to obtain certification and licensure.
1. Understanding Accredited vs. Non-Accredited Dental Programs
Accredited Dental Programs
If you graduated from a dental program recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC), you are eligible to enter the NDEB Certification Process directly.
Accredited Programs Include:
- Canadian dental programs (CDAC-accredited)
- United States dental programs (CODA-accredited)
- Australian Dental Council (ADC) & Dental Council of New Zealand (DCNZ).
- Irish dental programs.
If your program is accredited, you can skip the NDEB Equivalency Process and proceed directly to Step 3: NDEB Examinations & Certification Process.
Non-Accredited Dental Programs
If your dental degree is from a non-accredited institution, you must complete the NDEB Equivalency Process before obtaining certification.
– A non-accredited program is:
- Any dental program that issues a BDS, DDS, or DMD degree and is outside of Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, or Ireland.
- A program not recognized by the CDAC.
– Pathways for Non-Accredited Graduates:
1. NDEB Equivalency Process – A set of exams that evaluate your knowledge and clinical skills.
2. Qualifying or Degree Completion Program – A 2-3 year university-based program that allows graduates to bypass the Equivalency Process.
2. Eligibility Pathways for Internationally Educated Dentists
If you are an internationally trained dentist, your eligibility to practice in Canada depends on whether your education is from an accredited or non-accredited dental program. The pathway you follow determines the steps you need to take to become licensed.
Pathway for Graduates of Accredited Programs
Eligibility: You are eligible to enter the NDEB Certification Process directly.
Steps:
- Apply for the NDEB Certification Process.
- Successfully pass the NDEB Certification Examination.
- Apply for provincial licensure with the appropriate dental regulatory authority. ✔ Outcome: Once licensed, you can legally practice as a dentist in Canada.
For More details, Click Here.
Pathway for Graduates of Non-Accredited Programs
Eligibility: You must complete the NDEB Equivalency Process before becoming eligible for certification.
Steps:
- Complete the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK).
- Pass the Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ).
- Successfully complete the National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence (NDECC).
- After completing the Equivalency Process, apply for the NDEB Certification Examination.
- Upon passing, apply for provincial licensure. ✔ Outcome: Once licensed, you can work as a dentist in Canada.
For More details, Click Here.
Key Considerations Before Proceeding
Before proceeding, consider these key factors that may impact your eligibility:
✔ Curriculum Differences – If your dental education does not align with Canadian standards, you may need to complete additional coursework or a bridging program.
✔ Clinical Training Exposure – Some international programs provide limited hands-on clinical experience. Ensure your training meets the required competency levels for Canadian practice.
✔ Provincial-Specific Requirements – In addition to NDEB certification, some provinces may have unique licensing requirements such as jurisprudence exams or language proficiency tests.
✔ Specialty Licensing Considerations – If you wish to practice as a dental specialist, additional exams and certifications from the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (RCDC) may be required.