Wondering why Dental Hygiene Courses are so popular in Canada, here are the major reasons.
As cosmetic dentistry is becoming popular day by day, courses in the field of dentistry have huge futuristic growth potential.
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Dental Hygiene is a highly regarded profession in Canada for its attractive salary packages, scope, high job satisfaction, and career growth.
The average salary of a dental hygienist in Canada is INR 80 Lakhs, excluding other allowances and benefits.
According to the Federation of Dental Hygiene Regulators of Canada, Dental hygiene is the 6th largest registered health profession in Canada, with over 31,170 registered dental hygienists. The highest numbers are in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.
If you are looking for a Dental Hygienist course in Canada, or wondering why you should, here is all that you ever wish to learn about it.
Let us explore everything from top universities, courses, and scholarships to admission requirements.
What is a Dental Hygiene Course?
The dental hygiene course is a specialised program to become a dental hygienist or an oral hygienist. A Dental Hygienist is a licensed dental professional registered with a dental association or regulatory body within the country of practice.
Key Highlights of Dental Hygiene Course in Canada:
| Courses | – Certificate Courses – Diploma & Advanced Diploma Courses – Bachelor’s Degree – Master’s Degree |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 20-25 lakh |
| Duration | 3-4 Years |
| Accreditation | Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) |
| Certification Examination | National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE) |
Dental hygiene includes all services performed to achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Being a dental hygienist you work along with a dentist and perform several important work roles.
Major job roles include:
- Performs preliminary examinations of patients
- Take impressions of dental cavities
- Provide oral hygiene instructions
- Ensure the health of gums by brushing and stimulating them
- Prevent tooth decay by brushing away stains and sediments
- Perform fluoridation
- Perform X-rays and develop them
- Perform restorative and orthodontic operations
- Supervises the work of dental assistants
You can do a certificate course, diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s in Dental Hygiene from Canada. The duration of the program, eligibility and other requirements vary across universities and courses.
Why Study a Dental Hygienist Course in Canada?
According to a survey conducted by the American Dental Association, 33% to 40% of dental practice owners are actively trying to recruit more dental assistants and dental hygienists in Canada. They are facing a drastic shortage of labour in the country.
By August 2023, the national unemployment rate of Canada is 5.5%, whereas the approximate unemployment rate for dental hygienists is only 1%.
In Canada, the Canadian Dental Care Plan is being implemented and will be effective by 2025.
As the number of patients seeking professional oral health care is going to increase due to the new plan, the country is looking to overcome its shortage of enough dental assistants and dental hygienists.
In addition to this huge demand, there are other major reasons why you should consider completing a dental hygienist course in Canada.
The common benefits of doing a Dental Hygienist Course in Canada are:
- High Salary: The salary for a dental hygiene professional in Canada ranges from INR 70 Lakhs to INR 91 Lakhs. Your salary can further increase, depending on your experience level, education, and job role.
- Growing Scope: As the Canadian Dental Care Plan is being implemented, it opens up numerous new openings in Canada for the post of dental hygienist.
- Job Security: Owing to the growing demand for the dental hygiene profession in Canada, it promises you a higher level of job security.
- Top Universities: Being one of the top courses in the country, the dental hygiene program is available in most Canadian universities. Some of the top universities for a bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene are the University of Alberta and Dalhousie University.
- Multicultural Learning Environment: Studying in a top study-abroad destination will not only give you access to some of the prestigious universities of the world but also allow you to learn with students across the world. You get the chance to interact and learn from students and tutors across the world. This can help to widen your networking and inclusivity.
- Other Benefits: Being a dental hygienist in Canada not only provides you with attractive salary packages, but you are also eligible for other benefits. This includes medical and housing allowances, dental care benefits, paid vacation/holidays, and parking.
Apart from this, there are numerous other reasons why you should study in Canada, including its multicultural student environment and global opportunities. Being a dental hygienist in Canada assures you of some of the top perks of working there.
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Types of Dental Hygienist Courses in Canada
If you are looking for a dental hygiene course in Canada there are several options for you. You can do a diploma, bachelor’s or a master’s in dental hygiene.
The average cost, duration, and scope of each course vary from one to another.
You can opt for a suitable course depending on your priorities.
Certificate Courses in Dental Hygiene
Canada provides a variety of courses in the field of dental hygiene. Certificate courses are provided in most Canadian universities to allow you to learn a particular field, or to boost your skill, professional credibility and growth.
Canadian universities provide numerous certificate courses in medical fields such as dental hygiene.
Check out the details:
| Duration | 6 months – 1 year |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 5-10 Lakhs |
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Diploma in Dental Hygiene
Diploma in Dental Hygiene is the most opted course in the field of dental hygiene in Canada. According to the Job Market and Employment Survey of The Canadian Dental Hygienist Association, 87% of students opt for a diploma course in dental hygiene.
A major reason for this is the short duration of the course and reduced tuition fee.
Check out the table below for more details.
| Duration | 2-3 Years |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 10 Lakhs |
The duration and tuition fees mentioned above are approximate figures. This can vary depending on your university and course.
Advanced Diploma in Dental Hygiene
An advanced diploma course in dental hygiene is a specialised program in the field of dental hygiene. The advanced diploma course is longer than a diploma and allows more detailed and in-depth study of the field of dental hygiene.
Check out the table below:
| Duration | 1-2 years |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 12-13 lakh |
Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene
A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene is the second most opted program in the field.
According to a survey conducted by The Canadian Dental Hygienist Association, professionals with a bachelor’s degree earn 11% more than those with a diploma in dental hygiene.
Check out the table below for more details.
| Duration | 3-4 Years |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 21-22 Lakhs |
The duration and tuition fees mentioned above are average numbers and can vary depending on your institution and program.
Master’s in Dental Hygiene
Master’s courses in dental hygiene are in-depth courses in the field. It provides you with research-based knowledge and adds to your career both in terms of salary and scope.
Check out the table below for more details.
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Annual Tuition Fee | INR 8-9 Lakhs |
The course duration and the annual tuition fees mentioned above are average figures.
Top 5 Universities for a Dental Hygienist Course in Canada
According to the US News report, Canada has been among the top 5 countries for education, since 2016. The QS World University Rankings 2024 includes 31 top Canadian universities.
It has the increased quality of education, diverse options and research opportunities that make Canada a great option for your dental hygiene course. Moreover, completing your studies at one of the country’s top universities is the easiest way to secure a stable job in Canada.
Given below is a list of top Canadian universities that provide dental hygiene courses.
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia is the second-best university in Canada and ranks #35 in Best Global Universities (U.S. News and World Report). According to the report’s subject-wise ranking, the university ranks #34 in Best Global Universities for Clinical Medicine.
The University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Dentistry offers a bachelor’s program in Dental Hygiene.
Given are the program details.
| Program Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee |
| Dental Hygiene Degree Program | 4 Years | INR 46-47 Lakhs ($55,554) (First Year) |
Learn more about the ranking, course, fees and scholarships of the University of British Columbia.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry ranks #83 in the world (U.S. News and World Report).
The faculty is specific to its case-based learning method and ensures a better teacher-student ratio by maintaining a smaller number of students.
The School of Dentistry in the university provides the following programs:
| Programs Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee |
| Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene | 3 Years | INR 8 Lakh ($9,187.39) first year |
| Post Diploma BSc Dental Hygiene | Data currently not available | Varies based on the number of courses registered for each term |
| MSc Dental Hygiene | 3-4 Years | INR 7-8 Lakhs |
Learn more about the ranking, course, fees and scholarships at the University of Alberta.
Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University ranks #11 in the country, and #225 in the Best Global Universities for Clinical Medicine (U.S News and World Report).
The university offers a new and modern dental clinic for its students, that assures a student-centered learning environment.
The Faculty of Dentistry in the university provides the following programs:
| Programs Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee |
| Diploma of Dental Hygiene (DDH) | 2 Years | INR 8-9 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (BDH) | 3 Years | INR 7-8 Lakh |
If you have completed a Diploma in Dental Hygiene from Dalhousie University, then you can take the one-year degree completion program to receive your Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (BDH).
The university allows you to do this either full-time (over one year) or part-time (over two years).
Learn more about the ranking, course, fees and scholarships at Dalhousie University.
University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba ranks #14 in the country and #225 for its subject of Clinical Medicine (U.S News and World Report).
The School of Dental Hygiene in the university provides the following programs:
| Programs Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee |
| Diploma in Dental Hygiene | 3 Years | INR 5-6 Lakhs |
| Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene | 1-2 years (dependent on prior education) | INR 21 Lakhs |
The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program at the university is a degree completion program. Students who already have a diploma in the field can only apply for it.
Learn more about the ranking, course, fees and scholarships at the University of Manitoba.
Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries
The Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries offers a specialised diploma program in the field of dental hygiene.
The university offers a variety of courses in dentistry. It is also renowned for its 18-month diploma program in dental hygiene.
The diploma in dental hygiene from the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries is notable for its shorter duration and smaller class size. It allows students to get more personalised attention in the classroom.
Given are the program details.
| Program Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee |
| Diploma in Dental Hygiene | 18 Months | INR 46-47 Lakhs |
Learn more about the ranking, course, fees and scholarships of the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries
Application Process for Dental Hygienist Course In Canada
The application procedure for a dental hygiene course in Canada varies across each university and program. Before applying to a university, check out its eligibility and document requirements carefully.
We have compiled the general application process for your reference.
Check out the steps below:
- Visit Official Website: Visit the website of your desired college or university
- Check Courses: Check out the programs offered by the college and the eligibility requirements
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet all the requirements for your specific program; diploma, advanced diploma, and degree programs have different eligibility requirements
- Apply: Read the application guidelines carefully and fill in the online application form.
- Upload Documents: Upload all relevant documents, including transcripts of previous education and appropriate referrals
- Wait for the Results: Faculty from the university will review your application form and will send you an email if selected
- Attend the Interview: Most universities ask for a personal interview where you need to exhibit your communication skills and give effective answers in making treatment decisions, solving oral health issues, developing specific oral health attitudes, and other relevant topics on oral health care services
- Receive the Offer Letter: If you performed well in the personal interview, you will receive a conditional offer letter from the university
- Pay the Fees: Admission into the program is confirmed only after paying the tuition fee and completing all the necessary processes to transition to the university
- Visa Process: You may apply for a visa to study in Canada after you get your admission letter.
Documents Required for Dental Hygienist Course in Canada
The document requirements for a dental hygiene course in Canada vary across universities and courses. Although there are some general document requirements such as CV/Resume, transcripts, and language proficiency certificates, universities also ask for specific requirements.
Check the official website of your preferred institution for specific details. We have compiled the general document requirements for a dental hygiene course in Canada, for your reference.
General documents for the dental hygiene course are:
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
- Letter of Recommendation(LoR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Proof of prior experience in Public Health Service
- English Language Requirements
Test Requirements for the dental hygiene course are:
- Dental Aptitude Test (DAT): While applying for a dental school in Canada, most universities ask for your DAT score. The exam is administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). On average, the minimum score required for DAT is 16-20.
- Language Proficiency Test: Most universities ask for proof of proficiency in English language. The minimum score requirements vary for each institution. The general cut-off is as follows:
Check out the official website of your preferred institution to check the specific document requirements and minimum test scores.
Cost of Studying Dental Hygienist Courses in Canada
While Canada offers an increased standard of living, it is not as expensive as other study-abroad destinations, such as the US, or UK. According to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Canada is 11.9% lower than in the US.
Given below is the breakdown of the expenses.
| Monthly Cost of Living in Canada | INR 1-2 Lakhs |
| Cost of Dental Hygiene Course in Canada | INR 16-17 Lakhs |
Note:- All the figures mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change.
The living cost mentioned above denotes the average monthly living cost.
Your average cost of living and other expenses can vary depending on your location, lifestyle, transportation and other influencing factors. Some of the top places for international students are Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Quebec City.
Scholarships for Dental Hygienist Courses in Canada
If you are looking for a dental hygiene program and find it difficult to fund your tuition and other expenses in the country, availing of scholarships is the easiest way to afford your education.
The Canadian government, universities, the Indian government, non-governmental bodies and international organisations provide numerous scholarships. We have compiled a list of scholarships for Canada that you can consider.
Check out the scholarships and their benefits.
| Scholarship Name | Benefits |
| Albert Bodnarchuk Award in Dentistry | $500 (INR 30,000-35,000) |
| Amy E. Sauder Scholarship | $1,700-3,200 (INR 1.4 – 2.6 lakh) |
| Barbara Ann Zier Memorial Scholarship | $2750 (INR 22 lakh) |
| Calgary and District Gnathological Society Prize | $200 (INR 16 – 17,000) |
| Arthur D Cumming Scholarships | $1750 (INR 1 Lakh) |
The eligibility, application process and other requirements vary for each scholarship. Check out the official website of your preferred scholarship for more information.
Career Opportunities After Dental Hygienist Courses in Canada
Dental hygiene opens up a wide range of job opportunities in Canada. After completing a dental hygiene program in Canada, you get to explore some of the high-paid job roles in the country, with attractive salaries, and other benefits.
On average, the salary of a dental hygienist in Canada ranges between INR 62 lakh ($75,000) and INR 82 lakh ($99,000).
If you plan to return to India and work in the country, then a foreign degree can further escalate your job prospects. The average dental hygienist salary in India is INR 30 lakh.
Some of the top job profiles for a dental hygienist in Canada are given, along with their average annual salary.
Check out the table for dental hygiene jobs and salaries.
| Job Profile | Annual Salary in INR |
| Dental Hygienist | INR 1.7 crore ($2,15,876) |
| Dental Office Manager | INR 52 lakh ($63,562) |
| Dental Health Officer | INR 51-52 Lakhs ($62,000) |
| Dental Treatment Coordinator | INR 48-49 lakh ($60,037) |
| Dental Assistant | INR 45-46 Lakhs ($54,699) |
*Note-All the salaries mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change.
Your salary will vary based on factors like the company you work for, its location, and the type of business it is. The income numbers provided are based on ‘per annum salary’ and are meant to give you a general idea and can vary.
Bottom Line
Canada can be a great option for your study-abroad dream. From its breathtaking scenery to life-changing opportunities, studying in Canada is a total win for international students.
Plenty of course options are available in Canada for students intending to study in the field of dental hygiene program. From diploma programs such as the Diploma in Dental Technology, Certificate in Dental Assistant, and Diploma in Dental Hygiene to bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, the options in the country are diverse.
Pursuing a dental hygiene degree from a recognised Canadian university opens up numerous highly paid opportunities for you such as that of the dental hygienist, dental office manager and dental health officer.
The growing job prospects and high salary packages for the dental hygiene profession make dental hygiene an excellent choice for your higher education.
For those aspiring to pursue a dental hygiene course in Canada, Leap Scholar is the ideal partner to guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the salary of a dental hygienist in Canada?
A. The average annual salary for a dental hygienist in Canada is INR 80 Lakhs, excluding other allowances and benefits. Other allowances include housing allowances, medical allowances, and incentives. Salary can also vary depending on your work location, work profile, years of experience, and work sector.
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Q. Is Canada better than the UK for a dental hygiene degree?
A. Canada can be a better destination for a dental hygiene degree. The average annual salary for a dental hygienist in Canada is INR 80 Lakhs, whereas the average annual income for a dental hygiene graduate in the UK is INR 52-53 Lakhs. Another factor that makes Canada a better option is the high job prospects for the profession.
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Q. What is the tuition fee for a dental hygiene course in Canada?
A. The tuition fee for a dental hygiene course in Canada ranges from INR 4 Lakhs to INR 28 Lakhs. On average, the fee can be INR 16 Lakhs for a dental hygiene program. However, the salary can vary depending on the university and course. The total tuition expense can also vary depending on the duration of your course.
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Q. Can I get a diploma in dental hygiene from Canada?
A. Yes, international students can study diploma courses in dental hygiene from Canada. A diploma in dental hygiene is the most popular course in the field. The average tuition fee for a diploma in dental hygiene is INR 10 Lakhs and the average duration is 2-3 years.
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Q. What are the best universities for dental hygiene in Canada?
A. Dental hygiene is one of the most popular programs in Canada and it is available in some of the top universities in the country. Top universities for dental hygiene programs are
– University of British Columbia
– University of Alberta
– Dalhousie University
– University of Manitoba -
Q. How many years is a bachelor’s program in dental hygiene in Canada?
A. The average duration of a bachelor’s program in dental hygiene in Canada is 3- 4 years. The average tuition fee for a bachelor’s program is INR 21 Lakhs. Some of the top universities for a bachelor’s in dental hygiene are the University of British Columbia, the University of Alberta and Dalhousie University.
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Q. Can I work as a dental hygienist after a diploma in Canada?
A. Yes, it is possible to work as a dental hygienist after completing a diploma course in dental hygiene. However, make sure you do an accredited dental hygiene program. Once your course is complete you will have to pass the National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE) to practice in Canada.
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Q. Can I do a master’s in dental hygiene from Canada?
A. Yes, international students can do a master’s in dental hygiene from Canada. The average duration of a master’s program in dental hygiene is 4 years. The average tuition fee for an MSc in Dental Hygiene in Canada is INR 8-9 Lakhs. A top university for the program is the University of Alberta.
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Q. Can I work in Canada after my dental hygiene course?
A. Yes, after completing your studies in dental hygiene you can work in Canada. Students who completed their dental hygiene training from an accredited university can apply for the National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE). The test analyses the quality of new graduates from Canadian dental hygiene institutions and internally internationally trained DH Professionals, against the national DH practice and educational standards of Canada.
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Q. How long does it take to become a dental hygienist in Canada?
A. The minimum duration to become a dental hygiene professional in Canada is 2 years. You can do a diploma in dental hygiene that lasts around 2-3 years. After completing your course from an accredited university, you have to pass the NDHCE examination to practice as a dental hygienist in Canada.
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Q. Can I do a dental hygiene course after BDS?
A. Yes, it is possible to do a dental hygiene course after your BDS. You can do either a diploma in dental hygiene or a bachelor’s in dental hygiene. The average duration of a diploma course is 2-3 years, whereas the average duration of a bachelor’s program is 3-4 years. A master’s course in the field of dental hygiene is recommended if you want to develop research-based knowledge in the field.
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Q. Can Indians become dental hygienists in Canada?
A. Yes, it is possible for Indians to become dental hygienists in Canada. You can apply for your preferred course in the field: diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s in dental hygiene. After completion of your course in dental hygiene, you have to pass the NDHCE examination to practice as a dental hygienist in Canada.
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