This occupation also includes oral pathologists, oral radiologists, oral surgeons, orthodontists and prosthodontists. People in this occupation must complete one to four years' pre-dental university studies or, in Quebec, a college program in science and must hold a university degree from a recognized dental program. They must be licensed by a provincial or territorial governing body. Most recent entrants have a post-graduate university degree. Dentists in general practice may become specialists through advanced training.
Specialists require an additional licence for their area of specialization.
Dentists certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada may practice in any province and territory in Canada provided they also meet the provincial and territorial requirements for licensing. The proportion of self-employed workers in this occupation has increased significantly over the last 10 years. The proportion of women in this occupation has increased significantly over the last ten years. This rate is among the lowest for professional occupations and for occupations in the health sector. Better dental hygiene will also mean people have fewer cavities on average during their lifetime, decreasing work in this area.