You're fresh out of high school and thinking of a career in dental hygiene. You've heard that Canada offers some of the best dental hygienist programs in Canada. I was surprised to learn that in 2023, there were about 1,040,985 international students in Canada. That's a 29% increase over 2022!
It's clear that Canada is one of the top three destinations for students worldwide. Here, you'll find programs that offer a great mix of theory and practical experience, perfect for international students. While there are several specializations that one could pursue in, the following article will help you learn more about dental hygiene courses in Canada.
Table of Contents
- Why Study Dental Hygiene in Canada
- Types of Dental Hygiene Degrees
- Admission Requirements
- Cost of Dental Hygiene Education
- Scholarships
- Top Universities & Colleges for Dental Hygiene Courses in Canada
- Career Prospects after Dental Hygiene Courses in Canada
- Clinical Training and Practical Experience
- Conclusion
Why Study Dental Hygiene in Canada
Canada offers their international students a variety of benefits and perks, whether we consider the learning environment or job opportunities. Given below is a list of reasons why you should consider a dental hygienist course in Canada as a student considering education from abroad:
Factor |
Details |
High Demand and Job Opportunities |
Canada has a high demand for dental hygienists. As per WorkBC, from 2019 to 2028, there are expected to be 12,900 new job openings for dental health care professionals. This shows a strong need for skilled workers in this field. |
Diverse Job Roles |
As per Canadian Dental Hygienists Association, approximately
There are also opportunities in the government sector, such as in the military or public health department. |
Wide Scope of Practice |
Each of the 10 provinces and three territories in Canada self-regulate the practice of dental hygiene. This means each region has its own requirements, so it's important to contact the one you plan to work in. Currently, there are approximately 30,400 registered dental hygienists in Canada. |
High Demand for Clinical Workspaces |
About 91% of dental hygienists in Canada have their own clinical workspace. This indicates that the country has a strong infrastructure and support for dental hygiene professionals. |
Attractive Salaries |
The average annual salary for a dental hygienist in Canada is CAD 63,667, which is quite competitive and reflects the value placed on this profession. |
Advanced Education and Research Opportunities |
Canadian institutions offer bachelor’s and advanced diplomas in dental hygiene in Canada for international students. This can open doors to research, teaching, and higher administrative roles. |
Comprehensive Health Coverage |
Canada is known for its comprehensive health coverage, which extends to dental hygienists. This ensures a balanced work-life experience and access to necessary healthcare services. |
Types of Dental Hygiene Degrees
In Canada, dental hygiene education typically leads to a diploma or an advanced diploma. However, some institutions also offer bachelor's degrees in dental hygiene. Here are the different types of dental hygiene degrees in Canada:
Diploma in Dental Hygiene
A diploma program is the most common type of dental hygiene education in Canada. It is of two to three years of duration and provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to become registered dental hygienists. Diploma holders are eligible to take the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB) examination to obtain their professional license.
Feature |
Details |
Duration |
2–3 years |
Key Features |
Basic knowledge and skills, eligibility for National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB) exam. Over 30 accredited dental hygiene programs across Canada. |
Cost |
CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year |
Career Opportunities |
Registered Dental Hygienist |
Advanced Diploma in Dental Hygiene
Advanced diploma programs build upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired in a diploma program. The advanced diploma program is designed to provide additional specialization and advanced training in areas such as dental hygiene education, research, and management.
Feature |
Details |
Duration |
Additional one year |
Key Features |
Specialization and advanced training |
Cost |
CAD 25,000 to CAD 45,000 per year |
Career Opportunities |
Education, Research, Management, Leadership Roles |
Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene
A few Canadian universities offer bachelor's degree programs in dental hygiene. These programs usually have a duration of four years and provide a more comprehensive and in-depth education in dental hygiene. A bachelor's degree can offer additional opportunities for career advancement, research, teaching, or pursuing postgraduate studies in dental hygiene or related fields.
Feature |
Details |
Duration |
4 years |
Key Features |
Comprehensive education, research opportunities. For example, the University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta have respected dental hygiene bachelor's programs with rigorous courses and research opportunities. |
Cost |
CAD 30,000 to CAD 50,000 per year |
Career Opportunities |
Career advancement, Teaching, Postgraduate studies, Research |
Admission Requirements
Some essential admission requirements that international students will have to meet include:
Requirement |
Details |
Educational Qualifications |
|
English Language Proficiency | TOEFL: minimum score 90, IELTS: minimum score 6.5, or CAEL: minimum score 70. |
Prerequisite Courses | Courses in biology, chemistry, and sometimes mathematics. |
Personal Statement | Explanation of my motivation for pursuing a career in dental hygiene and why I chose Canada. |
Letters of Recommendation | Two letters from previous teachers or employers. |
Interview | Some programs required interviews to assess communication skills and passion for the field. |
These requirements can vary slightly depending on the institution, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of each program.
Cost of Dental Hygiene Education
Understanding the cost of dental hygiene education in Canada was crucial for me as an international student. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses:
Expense |
Cost Range (CAD) |
Tuition Fees | CAD 20,000–40,000 per year; Advanced Diploma: CAD 25,000–45,000 per year; Bachelor's Degree: CAD 30,000–50,000 per year. |
Additional Fees | Application, student fees, health insurance: CAD 1,000–2,000 per year. |
Books and Supplies | Textbooks, uniforms, and instruments: CAD 1,500–2,500 per year. |
Living Expenses | Accommodation, food, transportation, personal expenses: CAD 12,000–15,000 per year. |
Planning for these costs helped me manage my finances effectively while studying for a dental hygienist course in Canada.
Scholarships
Finding scholarships was essential for me as an international student pursuing a dental hygienist course in Canada. Here’s a list of specific scholarships I discovered that are applicable to dental hygiene courses:
Scholarship Name | Amount | Eligibility |
CDHA Dental Hygiene Baccalaureate Scholarship | CAD 2,000 | Available to members of the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) pursuing a bachelor's degree in dental hygiene. |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | CAD 5,000 per term | International students studying in Ontario with excellent academic records, including those in dental hygiene programs. |
University of Alberta Dental Hygiene Scholarship | CAD 3,000 | Awarded to top-performing dental hygiene students based on academic merit. |
Dalhousie University Entrance Scholarships | CAD 1,000–CAD 5,000 | Merit-based scholarships for international students entering the dental hygiene program. |
Canadian Dental Association (CDA) Scholarships | CAD 1,000–CAD 5,000 | Various scholarships for students enrolled in dental hygiene programs across Canada. |
University of Manitoba International Student Award | CAD 2,000 | Awarded to international students enrolled in health sciences programs, including dental hygiene, based on academic performance. |
Top Universities & Colleges for Dental Hygiene Courses in Canada
Given below is a list of top universities and colleges that offer dental hygiene courses in Canada:
University/College | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Average Tuition Fee* |
University of Alberta | 96 | CAD 5,216 per 3 credits |
University of Manitoba | 661–670 | CAD 18,700/year |
Dalhousie University | 275 | 18,546/year |
*As per university sites: topuniversities.com
Career Prospects after Dental Hygiene Courses in Canada
Given below are profiles of jobs and their average salaries (as per various job sites) that individuals can pursue after a diploma in dental hygiene in Canada:
Job | Average Annual Salary* |
Dental Hygienist | CAD 63,667 |
Dental Public Health Officer | CAD 102,409 |
Dental Office Manager | CAD 100,000 |
Dental Assistant | CAD 41,256 |
Treatment Coordinator, Dental | CAD 51,491 |
*As per Glassdoor and Payscale
Clinical Training and Practical Experience
When I studied for my dental hygienist course in Canada, I found that clinical training and practical experience were crucial components of the program. Here’s what my experience entailed:
Component | Details |
Clinical Hours | Most programs required 600–900 hours of supervised practice. For example, at the University of Alberta, I completed 700 clinical hours. |
Hands-On Training | I worked directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. At the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene, I treated over 50 patients. |
Simulation Labs | Before treating real patients, I practiced on dental simulators and mannequins. At Dalhousie University, I spent around 100 hours in simulation labs. |
Community Clinics | I provided dental hygiene services in community health clinics. At Cambrian College, I participated in a community clinic program for 200 hours. |
Internships and Externships | Some programs offered internships or externships lasting 6–12 months. I completed a 6-month internship at a public health facility, gaining experience in various dental settings. |
Research Opportunities | I participated in research projects related to dental hygiene. At the University of British Columbia, I worked on a project focused on preventive dental care. |
*As per university sites
Conclusion
Pursuing a dental hygienist course in Canada was one of the best decisions I made for my career. The high-quality education, practical experience, and vibrant, diverse culture have prepared me for a bright future. If you're considering dental hygiene, I highly recommend exploring the excellent programs here. Let upGrad Abroad guide you through finding and enrolling in the best dental hygienist programs in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tests required to study in Canada?
In order to, study in Canada the applicants must take one of the following three English language proficiency tests:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): minimum score- 6.5
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): minimum score- 90
- CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment): minimum score- 70
What is dental hygienist course fee in Canada for international students?
The fee will depend on the program and university chosen. In Canada, dental hygiene education typically leads to a diploma or an advanced diploma. Some institutions also offer bachelor's degrees in dental hygiene. The tuition fee for these courses can range from CAD 9,680—CAD 20000 per year.
Is doing a dental hygiene diploma in Canada a good choice?
Given the scope and demand for dental hygienists in Canada, it is a good idea to pursue a degree or diploma in dental hygiene in Canada. In the time period of 2019-2028, a total of 12,900 new job openings are expected to arise for people working the technical aspects of dental health care.
Are there options for part-time or online dental hygiene courses?
Yes, institutions like Dalhousie University offer part-time options, while the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and the University of Alberta offer online components for certain parts of their dental hygiene programs. Check specific program details at each institution for more information.
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