Canadian dentist salaries are excellent, sitting between $150,000 and $275,000 for fully licensed general practitioner dentists. With salaries well above the national average and strong demand across the country, dentistry offers excellent opportunities for newcomers and experienced professionals alike.
While salaries are expected to remain high, projected growth by 2026 may be modest—around 3.1% to 3.5% in line with national averages, partly due to slower economic trends. To stay competitive, many clinics are expanding their compensation packages to include perks like extra paid time off, flexible hours, and other workplace benefits.
This guide takes a closer look at what dentists currently earn across Canada, how salaries vary by province and experience level, and what to expect in 2026. You’ll also find helpful insights on how to increase your earning potential—especially if you’re new to Canada.
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What is the average dentist’s salary in Canada today?
The average base salary for a full-time dentist in Canada is approximately $221,762 CAD, with an additional bonus of $7,793 CAD. This places dentists well above the national average of $67,500 CAD.
Salaries vary widely depending on experience. Early career dentists often start at around $150,000 CAD, while more experienced professionals can earn significantly more.
| Lower Range | Average | Upper Range |
| $149,024 CAD | $221,762 CAD | $273,432 CAD |
(Based on data from the Economic Research Institute)
Earning a high salary as a dentist reflects the significant education and ongoing professional standards required. Dentists in Canada must hold a doctorate in dentistry and maintain active licensure with provincial regulatory bodies. With growing demand for dental care, there are increasing opportunities for new graduates as well as for specialists in higher-paying roles.
It’s also important to acknowledge ongoing challenges in the field. According to research from BMC Health Services, women dentists in Canada earn about 21% less than their male counterparts, despite equal representation. Similarly, 97% of dental hygienists are women, yet they earn 26% less than men in the same roles.
How dentist salaries vary around Canada
Your location in Canada plays a major role in how much you can earn as a dentist. Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta have large populations and strong demand for dental services, especially in major cities. Salaries tend to be higher in these areas, and while the cost of living is also elevated, a dentist’s income typically supports a comfortable lifestyle.
In contrast, salaries may be lower in more rural or less populated provinces—but so is the cost of living. These regions often face dentist shortages, which can create promising opportunities for newcomers entering the profession.
| Province (major city) |
Lower Range | Average Salary | Upper Range |
| Alberta | $154,000 CAD | $229,167 CAD | $282,563 CAD |
| (Calgary) | $162,432 CAD | $234,202 CAD | $299,868 CAD |
| British Columbia | $150,135 CAD | $223,410 CAD | $275,473 CAD |
| (Vancouver) | $160,251 CAD | $238,433 CAD | $294,032 CAD |
| Manitoba | $138,035 CAD | $205,410 CAD | $253,270 CAD |
| New Brunswick | $135,765 CAD | $203,694 CAD | $249,104 CAD |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $140,727 CAD | $209,416 CAD | $258,209 CAD |
| Ontario | $155,605 CAD | $222,375 CAD | $285,502 CAD |
| (Ottawa) | $155,529 CAD | $231,442 CAD | $285,368 CAD |
| Prince Edward Island | $112,057 CAD | $203,235 CAD | $292,000 CAD |
| Quebec | $201,183 CAD | $210,732 CAD | $305,749 CAD |
| (Montreal) | $148,905 CAD | $221,585 CAD | $273,215 CAD |
| Saskatchewan | $146,950 CAD | $209,989 CAD | $269,627 CAD |
What affects your earning potential as a dentist?
Beyond location, several factors—such as experience, practice ownership, and specialization—can significantly influence how much dentists earn in Canada.
Experience level
Dentists early in their careers—typically within the first four to five years—often earn less as they build a patient base and gain clinical experience. Many work in associate roles transition to more independent practice.
After five years, salaries tend to rise as dentists begin managing their own patient portfolios, performing more complex procedures, and taking on leadership or mentorship roles. Those with a decade or more of experience may see further increases, particularly if they specialize or transition into practice ownership.
Practice Ownership
Many experienced dentists in Canada eventually move into practice ownership, either by starting their own clinic or buying into an existing one. While this comes with higher overhead costs—such as leasing a space, hiring staff, and investing in equipment—it also opens up the potential for significantly higher earnings.
Owner-dentists typically receive a larger share of the clinic’s total revenue and may also earn passive income from associate dentists working under them. In urban centres, ownership may be more competitive and expensive, but in rural areas, there may be incentives or reduced start-up costs aimed at attracting dental professionals.
For newcomers, ownership is usually a long-term goal that comes after licensure and gaining local experience, but it can offer stability, autonomy, and stronger financial returns over time.
Private vs. public practice
The type of clinic you work in can significantly affect your earnings. Dentists employed in public health clinics or hospitals typically receive a fixed hourly wage, offering greater income stability but generally lower overall earnings.
In contrast, those working in private practices are often paid based on production, earning a percentage—usually 35% to 45%—of the revenue they generate. The remainder goes toward clinic overhead costs. Some private practices also offer performance-based bonuses or incentives tied to clinic revenue targets.
Specialization
Dentists who pursue advanced specializations can significantly increase their earning potential—especially in high-demand and underserved fields. The highest-paying specialties in Canada include orthodontics, oral surgery, and periodontics, all of which require additional training and certification.
While dental assistants and hygienists play essential roles in oral healthcare, they are not licensed dentists and typically earn lower salaries under the supervision of a dentist.
| Type of Dentistry | Average Salary |
| Dental Assistant | $54,649 CAD |
| Dental Hygienist | $93,014 CAD |
| Public Health Dentist | $179,848 CAD |
| Private Clinic Dentist | $221,762 CAD |
| Orthodontic Dentist | $297,687 CAD |
| Dental Surgeon | $319,260 CAD |
Projecting dentist salaries for 2026
Dentist salaries in Canada are expected to grow modestly in 2026—between 3.1% and 3.5%, in line with general wage increases. Longer-term projections from the Economic Research Institute suggest average earnings may reach $234,230 CAD by 2030, reflecting a 6% increase over five years.
While demand for dental services continues to rise—driven by Canada’s aging population, growing interest in cosmetic procedures, and the rollout of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)—wage growth may remain slow due to broader economic pressures. Many households are adjusting to reduced discretionary spending, which could impact demand for non-essential treatments in the short term.
In response, some clinics may focus on enhancing total compensation packages to attract and retain skilled professionals. These may include additional paid time off, performance bonuses, and flexible scheduling to remain competitive in a shifting healthcare market.
Job outlook and career growth
The long-term outlook for dentists in Canada remains strong. According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, employment opportunities for dentists are expected to grow steadily, particularly as public dental programs expand and the population continues to age.
Dentists can also explore diverse career paths, including academia, research, public health, or owning multiple clinics. For internationally trained professionals, Canada offers a chance not only to restart but to grow and evolve in their careers over time.
For newcomers: Becoming a dentist in Canada
Canada has seen a notable rise in internationally trained dental professionals. In the first half of 2024 alone, 865 foreign-trained dentists reportedly entered the country. Dentists are eligible for immigration through the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry, and are often prioritized in many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
However, before practicing independently, newcomers must complete the NDEB equivalency process to have their credentials recognized and become fully licensed in Canada. This process typically takes 12 to 18 months, during which some professionals may choose to work in supporting roles, such as dental assistants or hygienists, to gain Canadian experience.
While the path to licensure can be demanding, dentistry remains a rewarding and in-demand career in Canada. With widespread labor shortages and salaries well above the national average—even at entry level—it’s a promising option for newcomers looking to build a stable, long-term future.
Planning your dental career in Canada
Dentists in Canada earn well above the national average, with entry-level salaries for fully licensed professionals starting around $150,000 CAD and average earnings near $221,762 CAD. Those with in-demand specializations or extensive experience can earn significantly more.
With a growing need for dental services and multiple immigration pathways available, dentistry remains a stable and rewarding career option for both newcomers and established professionals.
Interested in learning more about life in Canada? Explore our in-depth guide on cost of living, top cities, and quality of life to help plan your next move.
FAQs
How much do dentists make in Canada?
Fully licensed dentists typically earn between $150,000 and $275,000 CAD per year. Entry-level salaries fall at the lower end of this range, while the national average is approximately $221,762 CAD. Specialists—such as orthodontists and oral surgeons—often earn significantly more.
What type of dentist makes the most money in Canada?
Dental surgeons and orthodontists are among the highest-paid dental professionals in Canada. In general, dentists working in private clinics tend to earn more than those in public health settings.
Is there demand for dentists in Canada?
Yes. Ongoing labour shortages, an aging population, and expanded public health programs are expected to keep demand for dentists high in the coming years—outpacing the current supply from local training and immigration.
How long does it take to become a licensed dentist in Canada as a newcomer?
The licensure process for internationally trained dentists typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on how quickly you complete the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) equivalency process. This involves several exams to assess your qualifications and clinical skills. Once completed, you’ll be eligible to apply for licensure with your provincial regulatory body.
Can I work in the dental field while waiting for my Canadian license?
Yes. Many internationally trained dentists work in supporting roles—such as dental assistants, hygienists, or office managers—while completing the licensure process. These roles allow you to gain Canadian experience, build professional networks, and support yourself during the transition.
What’s the best province in Canada for newcomer dentists?
Opportunities for newcomer dentists exist across Canada, but Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta tend to offer the highest salaries and the greatest demand, particularly in urban centers. However, rural provinces may offer faster job placement, lower competition, and even relocation incentives, making them a great option for starting your career.