Have you considered becoming a Dentist in Ontario? Although tooth diseases are on the decline thanks to modern dentistry, the Dental Industry’s growth is on the incline in Ontario and Canada.
With the right skills, certifications, and of course, interest in the field, you’ll be ready to start a career as a dentist!
Who Can Be A Dentist?
Before training, you’ll want to consider if a career in Dentistry is right for you. Dentistry is as much about science as it is about artistry to give clients that winning smile. Knowing about jaw structure will be equally as important as an artistic approach to fixing teeth.
You’ll also need a level of flexibility in your personality. Unlike the typical 9-5 job, you’ll likely be setting up your own practice or a group practice, which gives you the independence and opportunity to set your own hours.
Dental Aptitude Test and Ontario Dental Education
As a Dental candidate, you’ll need a background in math and science to meet most admission requirements into dental programs. Candidates also need to take the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT). The DAT is issued by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) to help schools decide on admissions.
Although there are no accredited Dentistry programs in Guelph by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC), you can still get an accredited education from other schools in Ontario such as those in Toronto and London, amongst 10 others across the country. Each province has different requirements for Dental practice, so be sure to check which school is right for you!
Great, I’m Accepted! Now What?
Once you’ve been accepted into Dentistry School, consider the time and financial commitments you will make. A student can spend a minimum of 4 years in Dentistry School, but some take longer. The finances for this usually comes from loans or scholarships. Investing the right time and money, ensures your success as a Dentist.
When you complete your studies, you’ll graduate with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (DDS). Some students also choose to continue their studies and specialize further.
Practicing Dentistry in Canada
After your studies, you’ll be able to start the National Dental Examination Board of Canada’s Certification (NDEBC) examination and licensing procedure to become a practicing Dentist. If you have taken unaccredited studies or are an international student, you will still be able to take the NDEBC program once you have completed a few extra steps. Check out both pathways on the NDEBC’s website.
Once licensed and certified for practice, you’ll be ready to start your career as a Dentist in no time!
Check out some of the links below to get you started:
