Education · 1 of 5
The path
You become a dentist first. There is no shortcut.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Biology, chemistry, physics, math and English with top marks.
- 2
University, then the DAT (dental aptitude test)
2 to 4 years
2 to 4 years of science courses, then the dental admission test.
- 3
Dental school
4 years
4 years for a DDS (doctor of dental surgery) or DMD (doctor of dental medicine). You graduate as a general dentist.
- 4
Periodontics residency
About 3 years, plus any practice years
About 3 years at a dental school, usually with a master's degree attached. Only a few seats per program. Most programs want a year or more of general practice first.
- 5
Specialty exam and licence
A few months
Pass the NDSE (National Dental Specialty Examination), then register as a specialist with your provincial dental college.