Top 12 After BDS Courses In Canada And Fees (2025)

In this guide, we present a comprehensive list of after BDS courses in Canada along with their fees, entry requirements, and career opportunities. This detailed breakdown will help aspiring dental professionals make informed choices about their future studies and careers.

After BDS Courses in Canada and Fees

1. Dental Residency Programs

Many Canadian universities offer general practice residency (GPR) programs or hospital dental residencies for international graduates. These programs allow foreign-trained dentists to gain practical experience in a supervised environment.

• Duration: 1 year

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $20,000 – $40,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University

• Career Path: After completion, candidates can either pursue licensing exams or move into specialized programs.

2. International Dentist Advanced Placement Program (IDAPP)

The IDAPP is a bridging program specifically designed for international BDS graduates who want to practice in Canada. It allows foreign-trained dentists to integrate into the Canadian dental education system.

• Duration: 5–6 months (followed by entry into the 3rd year of DDS)

• Tuition Fees: CAD $50,000 – $60,000

• Top University: University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry

• Career Path: Graduates continue in the DDS program and become eligible for Canadian licensure.

3. Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) – Qualifying/Degree Completion Programs

Foreign-trained dentists often enroll in DDS programs in Canada to obtain local credentials. These programs allow them to complete the last two years of a Canadian dental degree.

• Duration: 2 years (advanced standing)

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $55,000 – $65,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, Western University (Ontario)

• Career Path: Licensed dentist in Canada upon passing the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) exams.

4. Master of Public Health (MPH) in Dentistry

An MPH program with a focus on dentistry is ideal for BDS graduates interested in dental health policy, epidemiology, and public health research.

• Duration: 1–2 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $20,000 – $35,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Alberta, McGill University

• Career Path: Roles in public health organizations, NGOs, research institutions, and government health departments.

5. MSc in Dental Sciences

This research-focused program allows students to specialize in areas such as dental biomaterials, oral biology, craniofacial research, or microbiology.

• Duration: 2 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $18,000 – $30,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of British Columbia, University of Manitoba

• Career Path: Research, academic positions, and PhD opportunities.

6. Orthodontics (MSc or MDS Equivalent)

BDS graduates who wish to specialize in orthodontics can pursue a Master’s program in Canada. These are highly competitive and require strong academic credentials.

• Duration: 3 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $25,000 – $40,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Alberta, Dalhousie University

• Career Path: Specialist orthodontist, academic researcher, or private practitioner.

7. Periodontics Specialization

This program focuses on treating gum diseases, implantology, and advanced periodontal surgeries.

• Duration: 3 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $22,000 – $35,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Manitoba, University of Toronto

• Career Path: Licensed periodontist, researcher, or clinical faculty.

8. Prosthodontics (MSc or MDS Equivalent)

A prosthodontics program trains dentists in advanced prosthetic treatments, including dentures, crowns, bridges, and maxillofacial prosthetics.

• Duration: 3 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $25,000 – $38,000 per year

• Top Universities: Western University, McGill University

• Career Path: Specialist prosthodontist, implant expert, or university lecturer.

9. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS)

This is one of the most challenging and prestigious after BDS specializations in Canada. It combines dentistry and surgery, preparing dentists to perform complex facial surgeries.

• Duration: 4–6 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $30,000 – $45,000 per year

• Top Universities: Dalhousie University, McGill University

• Career Path: Oral surgeon in hospitals, private clinics, or academic settings.

10. Pediatric Dentistry

For dentists who want to focus on treating children and adolescents, pediatric dentistry programs in Canada provide advanced training in child oral healthcare.

• Duration: 3 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $25,000 – $40,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of British Columbia, University of Toronto

• Career Path: Pediatric dentist in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.

11. Dental Hygiene Programs (Postgraduate Level)

Some BDS graduates also choose to take advanced dental hygiene or preventive dentistry courses as a pathway to Canadian dental practice.

• Duration: 1–2 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $15,000 – $25,000 per year

• Top Universities: University of Alberta, Dalhousie University

• Career Path: Dental hygienist, preventive care specialist, or community health educator.

12. PhD in Dentistry / Oral Health Sciences

For those interested in academia or high-level research, pursuing a PhD in Dentistry is an excellent option after BDS.

• Duration: 4–6 years

• Average Tuition Fees: CAD $8,000 – $20,000 per year

• Top Universities: McGill University, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia

• Career Path: University professor, research scientist, or consultant in dental innovation.

Average Cost of Living for Dental Students in Canada

Apart from tuition fees, international students must also consider living expenses. On average:

• Accommodation: CAD $700 – $1,200/month

• Food & Groceries: CAD $300 – $500/month

• Transportation: CAD $100 – $150/month

• Health Insurance: CAD $600 – $1,000 per year

Total living cost: CAD $12,000 – $18,000 per year.

Why Choose Canada for After BDS Courses?

1. Globally Recognized Institutions – Canadian dental schools such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are internationally ranked and respected.

2. Pathway to Practice – Canada provides multiple routes for foreign-trained dentists to obtain licenses and practice dentistry.

3. Advanced Research Opportunities – The country invests heavily in medical and dental research, giving graduates exposure to cutting-edge innovations.

4. Diverse Specializations – From orthodontics to public health dentistry, Canada offers diverse postgraduate programs.

5. Permanent Residency Opportunities – Studying in Canada may also open immigration pathways for long-term settlement.

Admission Requirements for After BDS Courses in Canada

While requirements may vary across universities, the general criteria include:

1. Recognized BDS degree from a foreign university.

2. Proof of English Proficiency – IELTS (7.0+ band) or TOEFL equivalent.

3. Transcripts and Academic Records.

4. Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation.

5. NDEB Exam Pathway (for clinical programs leading to licensure).

6. Work Experience (preferred but not mandatory) for some specializations.

Career Prospects After BDS Courses in Canada

1. Licensed Dentist – Work in clinics, hospitals, or open a private practice.

2. Specialist Dentist – Orthodontist, periodontist, prosthodontist, pediatric dentist, or oral surgeon.

3. Public Health Professional – Work in NGOs, government health bodies, and international health agencies.

4. Academic & Research Career – Become a lecturer, research associate, or PhD scholar.

5. Dental Consultant – Join health organizations and consultancy firms focusing on oral care.

Conclusion

Pursuing after BDS courses in Canada opens multiple pathways for international dental graduates, from clinical practice to research and public health. While the tuition fees and living expenses may seem high, the return on investment in terms of career opportunities and global recognition is significant.

By choosing the right specialization—whether it’s orthodontics, oral surgery, or public health—students can build a thriving career in Canada and beyond. For many, this also serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency, making Canada a top destination for dental professionals worldwide