How to Study Dentistry in Canada for Students in 2025

Blogs Study in Canada Blogs April 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Introduction

Walking through a bright campus in Toronto or Vancouver, you catch the clean scent of winter air mixed with minty mouthwash from a busy student clinic. Classmates from every corner of the globe practise gentle drilling on plastic molars, laugh over late-night anatomy flashcards, and plan weekend trips to Niagara Falls. That is the real feel of dentistry in Canada—a blend of adventure and serious study. Canada welcomes Indian learners with open arms, clear visa rules, and clinics that use lasers, 3-D printers, and AI scanners as casually as we use smartphones. Tuition is high, yes, but the pay-off comes in modern skills, strong job security, and a pathway to permanent residency. If you crave hands-on science, people-friendly work, and the thrill of crafting perfect smiles, keep reading. This guide answers money worries, exam jitters, visa puzzles, and every “dentistry in canada fees” search you ever typed—step by step, in plain words. Ready to see how eight focused years in the Great White North can shape a lifelong career? Let’s dive in.

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Dentistry in Canada Duration, Modules Covered and More

Confused about how long dentistry in Canada takes and what modules you’ll need to study?

Two big steps shape dentistry in Canada:

Step 1 – 3–4 Years: Bachelor’s Foundation
- BSc Biology, Biochemistry, Health Science, or similar.
- Some schools let you apply after only two strong years, but finishing the full degree is safer.
- This early stage is where many Google “dentist study in canada” to map their path.
Step 2 – 4 Years: DDS or DMD Program
- Clinical practice starts fast; by Year 2 you treat real patients.
- After graduation you sit licensing exams, then explore high-pay roles.

Total: ~ 8 years. It sounds long, yet stories from senior students prove the time flies.

Check Out: How to Get a Masters Degree Abroad

Dentistry in Canada Major Modules

Human Anatomy & Physiology – Learn about bones, muscles, and every nerve in the mouth. A strong base for anyone wanting to study dentistry in Canada for international students.
Through the oral biology course, a student must understand how the mouth functions, the significance of saliva production, and the starting point of oral disease. This is a key part of dentist study in Canada programs.
Training in Dental Materials provides essential understanding regarding the secure and efficient dental products used for fillings braces as well as crowns, essential knowledge for how to become a dentist in Canada from India.
Students use pre-clinical lab facilities to train dental methods on mock-up dental pieces before providing treatment to actual patients. This is an important step when you study dentistry in Canada.
Clinical Dentistry – Treat real patients under expert supervision. Clinical skills are crucial for those dreaming of dentistry in Canada.
Oral Pathology – Learn how to detect early signs of infection or oral cancer, an important subject in dentist study in Canada courses.
Orthodontics Basics – Study how braces and aligners work to straighten teeth, an important skill for a high dentist in Canada salary.
In Pediatric Dentistry one learns effective ways to handle young patients while providing dental care to children’s teeth.
The speciality of Periodontology involves both the detection of gum problems and their treatment for dental protection.
Prosthodontics – Learn to create dentures and implants that look and feel natural, key to modern dentistry in Canada.
Radiology – Study dental X-rays to diagnose hidden problems inside the mouth, a critical module for study dentistry in Canada for international students.
Emergency Dental Care – Train to manage urgent dental cases like knocked-out teeth, improving your readiness for a strong dentist in Canada salary.
Dental Public Health – Plan community dental health programs like fluoride treatments and awareness campaigns, important in dentistry in Canada fees planning.
Ethics & Professionalism – Learn how to protect patient trust and uphold professional standards, essential for success in dentistry in Canada.

Check out: How to Study Abroad with Scholarship in 2025

Dentistry in Canada Fees and Daily Expenses

Is the price tag giving you cold feet?

At first glance the financial figures might scare you when it comes to spending money. But don’t worry — with smart planning, studying dentistry in Canada can still be a smart investment. Let’s break it down clearly.

Tuition Fees for Dentistry in Canada

Dentistry in Canada fees are definitely high, but remember, dentists in Canada also earn strong salaries after graduation. Here’s a quick idea of the costs:

Dental Program Tuition (4 years): CAD $50,000 – $75,000 per year
Undergraduate Degree Tuition (3–4 years): CAD $30,000 – $45,000 per year
Total Tuition for Dentistry (Around 8 years of study): About CAD $290,000 (roughly ₹1.8 crore)

If you dream to study dentistry in Canada for international students, you must plan for both the undergraduate and dental school years.

Typical Living Costs for Dentistry Students

Along with tuition, you must also plan your living expenses during your studies. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Expense	Monthly Cost (CAD)	Yearly Cost (CAD)
Rent & Utilities	800 – 1,500	9,600 – 18,000
Food	300 – 600	3,600 – 7,200
Transit Pass	80 – 150	960 – 1,800
Health Insurance	60 – 100	720 – 1,200
Books & Supplies	100 – 200	1,200 – 2,400
Personal Fun	200 – 400	2,400 – 4,800

Average yearly living expenses: CAD $18,000–$30,000 (about ₹11–18 lakh)

This amount covers your basics: rent, food, transport, and health insurance while you study dentistry in Canada.

Other Costs to Remember

Besides tuition and daily living, there are a few other important costs:

DAT (Dental Aptitude Test) Fees: Needed to apply for dental schools.
Visa Costs and Application Fees: Compulsory for international students.
Flight Tickets: Travel from India to Canada and back.
Dental Kit Costs: Buying your first set of mirrors, probes, gloves, and more.

When planning how to become a dentist in Canada from India, these small costs add up, so it’s smart to budget ahead.

Budget Smartly

Many students use budgeting apps to manage expenses wisely during their dentist study in Canada.
And good news — once you graduate, the dentist in Canada salary helps you recover your investment much faster than many other professions!

Dentistry in Canada Eligibility Criteria and English Tests

Worried about meeting the tough eligibility and English test requirements to study dentistry in Canada?

Planning early on how to become dentist in Canada from India saves headaches later.

Academic Checklist for Dentistry in Canada

To start dental school applications in Canada students must fulfil their basic academic obligations.

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree: University study must consist of at least three full-time years devoted to science subjects, particularly biology, along with chemistry and physics classes.

Maintain a High GPA: The majority of dental programs demand applicants achieve a GPA higher than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to 75% or above). The better your GPA, the stronger your application will look.

The DAT (Dental Aptitude Test) serves as one of the most crucial components needed to succeed according to dental standards.

You are required to complete the Canadian or American Dental Admission Test. A high DAT score gives your application an extra edge and shows you are serious about how to become a dentist in Canada from India.

English Proficiency (Why It Matters)

A dentist must possess superior English abilities to present procedures to patients, describe medical operations, and manage their fear effectively. Proof of English ability represents a requirement that all Canadian universities demand from their applicants.

Here’s what you need:

IELTS Academic

A complete score of 7.0 must be achieved, and each component (reading, writing, listening, and speaking sections) of the exam must reach at least 6.5.

This is the most common and accepted test for study dentistry in Canada for international students.

TOEFL iBT

A total score between 90 and 100. The alternative English language ability assessment method gets approval from various universities.

Duolingo English Test

Generally, universities do not approve scores above 120 and they mostly accept it for undergraduate courses. Although the Dental School does not typically accept these exams.

Tip: Regular practice of English speaking, together with listening to podcasts and writing sample essays, will help your performance. Admission acceptance through good English abilities presents you with the advantage to succeed in future dental school interview assessments.

Documents to Upload for Dentistry Applications

When applying, make sure you prepare these documents:

University transcripts showing your marks
DAT scores (Canadian or American)
English test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
A strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
2–3 recommendation letters from teachers or employers
Updated resume or CV
Copy of passport and bank proof showing you can fund your education

Shortlisted students may also need to attend an interview. Doing mock interviews in advance can really boost your confidence!

Dentistry in Canada Scholarships and Bursaries

Hoping for help that makes your wallet smile too?

Getting a full scholarship for dentistry in Canada is rare, but many partial scholarships help lower the high costs. It’s smart to check your dream university’s scholarship page early and apply on time. Here’s a list of popular scholarships you can target:

Top Scholarships for Dentistry in Canada

University of Toronto Faculty Awards: Offers between CAD $2,000–$15,000 per year for students with very high DAT scores. A great help if you want to study dentistry in Canada for international students.
UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES): Awards between CAD $10,000–$25,000 based on your high school or undergraduate grades. It is very useful to manage dentistry in Canada fees.
McGill Entrance Funding: Provides a mix of merit-based and need-based bursaries, up to CAD $12,000. Important support for those planning dentist study in Canada.
University of Alberta International Scholarship: Offers around CAD $5,000 to strong international students. It is a good option when looking at how to become a dentist in Canada from India.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship: Offers a huge amount, CAD $50,000 per year, but mainly for PhD-level dental research. If you wish to do advanced studies after dentistry in Canada, this scholarship is worth aiming for.
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Grants: Provides small travel and tuition aid of up to CAD $5,000. Specially for Indian students looking for funding to study dentistry in Canada.
Need-Based Bursaries (McGill, Dalhousie, UBC): Offer between CAD $2,000–$10,000 yearly. These bursaries are based on your family’s financial situation. You must provide honest bank details during the application.

Pro Tips to Win Scholarships for Dentistry in Canada

Apply Early: Start applying 6 to 8 months before your course begins.
Focus on Grades and Test Scores: A high DAT score and high GPA make your application much stronger.
Reapply Every Year: Many scholarships require you to maintain good marks every year.

Winning scholarships can make dentistry in Canada fees much more affordable. After graduating, the dentist in Canada salary is usually very good, helping you recover your study costs quickly.

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Dentistry in Canada Top Universities List

Which campus feels right for your goals and budget?

Below are seven giants you already skimmed on ranking sites while Googling dentist study in canada.

University of Toronto – Faculty of Dentistry

Canada’s highest-ranked dental hub.
Early clinical exposure + laser, 3-D, digital workflows.
Competitive: strong GPA, DAT, and IELTS needed.

University of British Columbia (UBC) – Faculty of Dentistry

Vancouver beauty, diverse patients.
Hands-on from Year 1; famous for public-health research.

McGill University – Faculty of Dental Medicine & Oral Health Sciences

Montreal charm, bilingual edge.
Mixes classic drills with genetics and digital dentistry.

University of Alberta – School of Dentistry

Huge on rural outreach.
One of Canada’s largest campus clinics.

Western University – Schulich School

London, Ontario base.
Evidence-based learning and leadership focus.

Dalhousie University – Faculty of Dentistry

Halifax warmth, small classes.
Strong community service culture.

Université de Montréal – Faculté de médecine dentaire

French-language program; modern labs.
Tight links to Quebec hospitals.

Dentistry in Canada Ivy League-Standard Experience

Craving Harvard-level quality without U.S. tuition shock?

Many Canadians proudly call University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia (UBC), and University of Alberta the “Northern Ivy Quartet.”
If you dream to study dentistry in Canada for international students, these schools are some of the best choices.

Why These Schools Shine for Dentistry in Canada

World-Class Research:
These universities offer dental research that matches the quality of Ivy League schools in the U.S. Students and professors work on advanced dental studies that are known around the world.
Modern Clinics:
Dental clinics at these universities use the latest technologies like laser treatments, CBCT scanners, and chairside CAD/CAM machines. Students learn with tools that top dentists use every day.
Selective but Friendly:
Entry into these dentistry programs is very competitive. Only the best students get selected. But once you’re in, the campuses are welcoming and supportive, making it easier to adjust to life in Canada.
Lower Tuition and PR Opportunities:
Dentistry in Canada fees are usually lower than the huge costs of dental schools in the U.S. Plus, after graduating, international students often have a strong chance to apply for Permanent Residency (PR), which is a big bonus.

The Big Advantage

Choosing an Ivy-standard school for dentist study in Canada means your degree is respected all over the world.
Whether you plan to work in Canada, the U.S., or return to India, your degree will open big doors and help you achieve a strong dentist in Canada salary.

Dentistry in Canada Career Opportunities and Pay

Curious if the pay cheque covers the study loan?

Fresh DDS graduates are in high demand in Canada, especially in smaller towns and areas outside big cities. Dentistry in Canada offers strong career growth and good salaries right from the start. Let’s look at the main job options:

Job Roles and Starting Salaries

General Dentist – Fillings, Root Canals, Cleanings:
- Starting Salary: CAD $90,000–$130,000 (around ₹55–80 lakh).
- A dentist in Canada salary grows quickly with experience and patient trust.
Orthodontist (After 2–3 Extra Years of Study) – Braces and Aligners:
- Starting Salary: CAD $120,000–$200,000.
- If you want to specialize after you study dentistry in Canada, orthodontics is a great choice.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (After 4–6 More Years) – Complex Surgeries:
- Starting Salary: CAD $150,000–$250,000.
- This role is one of the highest-paid options in dentist study in Canada careers.
Pediatric Dentist, Periodontist, Prosthodontist – Specialties for Kids, Gums, and Teeth Replacements:
- Starting Salary: Always crosses six figures (over CAD $100,000).
- Each needs 2–3 extra years of training after your DDS.
Professor or Researcher – Teach or Do Dental Research:
- Starting Salary: CAD $70,000–$100,000, plus extra money through research grants.
- A great option if you love studying and helping future dentists.
Public Health Dentist – Plan Clinics for Communities:
- Starting Salary: CAD $80,000–$110,000.
- This role focuses on helping large groups instead of individual patients.
Armed Forces Dentist – Serve in the Military:
- Benefits: Stable salary, bonuses, and sometimes even help with tuition costs.
- A strong career option for those interested in service.

Long-Term Career Growth

After five years of private practice, a successful dentist can easily earn over CAD $200,000 per year.
Yes, those big numbers you find in “dentist in Canada salary” search results are very real!

Choosing to study dentistry in Canada for international students not only leads to a respected career but also offers great financial rewards.
If you’re planning how to become a dentist in Canada from India, strong career options are waiting for you after graduation.

Check out : IELTS or TOEFL: Choosing the Best Exam for Study Abroad

Dentistry in Canada and the Power of AI

Wondering if robots will steal your drill?

If you love technology, you’ll be excited to know that dentistry in Canada is one of the leading fields using smart tools and AI. Learning these tools early will help you build strong, future-proof skills when you study dentistry in Canada for international students. Let’s look at the top innovations:

How AI and Technology Are Changing Dentistry

AI Diagnosis: New AI tools like Pearl can find tiny cavities and tooth problems in just seconds by scanning X-rays. This helps dentists spot issues earlier than ever.
3-D Imaging: AI software can stitch together different scans to create a perfect 3D model of a patient’s jaw. This makes implant planning much faster and more accurate.
Predictive Analytics: Researchers at the University of Toronto are building smart apps that predict gum disease risk by looking at a person’s lifestyle habits like smoking or sugar intake. This is a big step forward in preventive care in dentist study in Canada programs.
Robotic Assist: The Yomi robotic arm is helping dental surgeons place implants with incredible precision. It guides the dentist’s hand, ensuring the placement is almost perfect.
Virtual Consults and Chatbots: Many clinics now offer online dental advice through virtual consultations and AI chatbots. This saves chair time, helps triage emergencies, and speeds up service for patients.
AI Simulation in Class: At McGill and UBC, dental students now practice on virtual teeth. AI programs instantly spot and correct mistakes during drilling, helping students improve faster.
Billing Bots: New billing software uses AI to auto-fill insurance forms. This cuts down paperwork and reduces the daily stress of managing payments.

Why Learning AI Tools Matters

When you study dentistry in Canada, knowing how to use AI and smart tech gives you a huge advantage.
Whether you plan to work in a busy city clinic or open your own practice, tech skills will help you work faster, smarter, and better.
This also means your future dentist in Canada salary could be even higher as clinics prefer hiring tech-savvy dentists!

Check out: How to Get Education Loan for Study in Canada?

Conclusion

Studying dentistry in Canada mixes eight focused years, high costs, smart scholarship hunts, cutting-edge AI, and pay cheques that quickly return the investment. From Toronto’s laser labs to UBC’s ocean-view clinics, you train in places that match Ivy prestige yet feel warmly Canadian. Clear rules, steady demand, and a path to residency turn the dream into an achievable plan. Pack curiosity, grit, and a good winter coat—the journey to sculpt brighter smiles starts now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1.Is Canada good for Indian students aiming for dentistry?

Yes, absolutely. Canada offers a safe environment, diverse and multicultural clinics, a clear visa process, and good chances to apply for permanent residency (PR) after graduation. All these factors make it very attractive to study dentistry in Canada for international students.

2.How many times can I take the DAT?

You can usually attempt the DAT exam three times without any issues. More attempts are allowed too, but remember, schools will see all your past scores. So, it’s better to prepare properly before trying.

3.What is the total cost if I finish both undergrad and dental program?

If you complete both undergraduate studies and dental school, the total cost is around CAD $450,000–680,000 (approximately ₹2.7–4.2 crore). You can see this breakdown under dentistry in Canada fees.

4.Can scholarships fully cover tuition?

Full scholarships are very rare. However, getting partial scholarships combined with part-time jobs on campus can reduce your financial burden a lot.

5.After getting licensed, can I open my own clinic?

Yes, you can. Once you secure your provincial dental license, arrange financing, and choose a good location, you can open your own clinic. Rural areas often offer grants to attract new dentists too!

Study Dentistry in Canada: What to Know