💰 Salary Expectations for Dentists in Canada

Jul 11 / AFK study plan

One of the most common questions internationally trained dentists ask is:
“How much do dentists make in Canada?”

The answer depends on several factors — including location, experience, type of practice, and how you structure your work. In this article, we’ll break down what to expect when it comes to dentist salaries in Canada, and what can help you maximize your income.

Average Salary for Dentists in Canada

According to recent statistics, the average salary for a general dentist in Canada ranges between:   $120,000 to $250,000 CAD per year.

This range depends heavily on:
  • Where you work (big city vs small town)
  • Whether you’re an associate or clinic owner
  • How many patients you see per day
  • Your efficiency and skills
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🏙️ City vs. Rural – Big Difference

In major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal:

There’s more competition among dentists, which can lower your earnings initially. But the patient volume is high, and there’s room to grow.

In rural or underserved areas:

There’s often a shortage of dentists. Many clinics offer higher salaries, signing bonuses, or even relocation support to attract dentists to these regions.

💡 Tip: Many newcomers start their careers in smaller towns to build experience and earn more, then later move to larger cities if they choose.

👨‍⚕️ Associate vs. Owner – Which Pays More?

Associate Dentists (working at someone else’s clinic):

Typically earn 30–40% of production or collections. That means the more patients you see and treatments you perform, the more you earn.

Clinic Owners:

Can make significantly more, but also carry more responsibilities — like staff management, marketing, and overhead costs.
Most new grads or internationally trained dentists start as associates and later open their own practices once they gain experience and understand the local system.

🕒 Part-Time vs. Full-Time

Full-time dentists (4–5 days/week) tend to earn the higher end of the scale.


Part-time or new dentists may earn less at first, especially while building up a patient base.


But the good news is: Income grows steadily with time, confidence, and consistency.


📈 How to Increase Your Earnings as a Dentist in Canada

Here are a few ways to boost your income as a licensed dentist:

Improve your speed and efficiency without compromising quality.
Take continuing education courses to offer more advanced treatments.
Work in areas with high demand and fewer dentists.
Build strong communication skills to improve patient trust and treatment acceptance.
Eventually, open your own clinic or expand your hours.

🦷 What About During the Equivalency Process?

While you're still completing the NDEB process, you can’t work as a dentist, but you may work in related roles like:
  • Dental assistant
  • Dental office receptionist
  • Dental lab technician
These roles pay less, but help you build experience and support yourself during the proces

🎯 Final Thoughts

Dentistry is one of the most rewarding and well-paying healthcare careers in Canada — especially if you're motivated, skilled, and willing to adapt to the system.

With proper planning and the right guidance, your income as a dentist can grow steadily and provide you with a successful and secure future in Canada.

At AFK Study Plan, we help you not only pass your exams, but also prepare for real-life success beyond them.

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