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Careers in Dentistry

Dental Assistant

There are two levels of dental assisting in BC:

Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) are trained in diploma courses held in colleges throughout the province. They are trained to assist the dentist during treatment of the patient and are qualified to carry out some procedures on patients under the direction of the dentist.

Dental Assistants require no formal training because training will be provided “on the job” by the dentist. The duties that can be performed by a chairside assistant are limited, and unlike those of certified dental assistant, do not include procedures carried out on the patient.

Certified Dental Assisting Programs in BC

Accredited Programs 

Non-Accredited Programs

Online Certified Dental Assisting Programs
General Requirements for Enrolment in CDA Programs*
  • BC Grade 12 graduation/equivalent or mature student status
  • C or 65% or higher grade in English 12; Biology 12
  • BC Government Criminal Record Check
  • Proof of immunization status
  • Valid Standard First Aid/CPR Level C certificate
  • Proof of negative TB status
  • Computer literacy

*contact schools for specific entrance requirement

More Information

Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists are trained in oral hygiene procedures which they may undertake in the dental office as directed by the dentist. These include:

  • Scaling and polishing teeth
  • Providing fluoride treatments
  • Providing oral hygiene instruction and counselling
Dental Hygiene Programs in BC

In BC a diploma in dental hygiene is required for an individual to work as a dental hygienist. Please note: a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene is NOT required to work as a dental hygienist in BC.

Office Management & Reception

Office personnel in a dental practice will require skills in:  

  • Scheduling
  • Record keeping
  • Accounting
  • Insurance plans
  • Computer
  • COVID-19 Screening
Dental Receptionist Training Programs in BC
Radiography Module

Dental office staff can take the Radiography Module with Vancouver Community College.

CDI College also offers Dental Receptionist training with the Radiography module included.

Job Postings for Dental Staff

Dentistry offers a wide and varied selection of choices of career paths. There are a range of job opportunities within the dental team:

  • Hygienists

  • Dental Assistant and Certified Dental Assistant

  • Office Management and Reception

There are many job opportunities in dental offices across BC. 

Career opportunities for dentists are listed on our Member Portal.