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Dental Assistants are greatly in demand in Canada. It is expected that between 2022 to 2031, around 17,000 job seekers are expected to fill these positions. Are you wondering what the average Dental Assistant salary in Canada is? If yes, then you are at the right place.
This guide explores the Dental Assistant salary in Canada, factors influencing earnings, and what you need to know to pursue this rewarding career. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
This Blog Includes:
- What Is the Average Dental Assistant Salary in Canada?
- Dental Assistant Salary in Canada By On Experience Level
- Dental Assistant Salary in Canada By On Education Level
- Top Companies for Dental Assistants in Canada
- Which Canadian Cities Offer the Best Salaries for Dental Assistants?
- Salaries for Different Dental-Related Roles in Canada
- Is a Dental Assistant a Good Career in Canada?
- How to Become a Dental Assistant?
- FAQs
What Is the Average Dental Assistant Salary in Canada?
Understanding the average dental assistant salary in Canada helps aspiring professionals gauge their earning potential. On average, dental assistants earn about CAD 26.38 per hour in Canada. This means that dental assistants make roughly CAD 6,103 per month in Canada, according to Indeed. Likewise, the assistant’s yearly turnover would be around CAD 86,196, which is amazing.
However, a dental assistant’s salary in Canada can vary depending on factors such as experience, expertise, and qualifications. Dental Assistants are usually paid around CAD 41,930 per year in the beginning, while gradually this pay will increase to an average of CAD 56,957 per year and further. The positions and responsibilities also increase with a salary increase.
Do you know you can also start part-time jobs in Canada as a Dental Assistant while you are studying in Canada? Many universities and courses appreciate or even mandate internships and part-time work for degrees.
Dental Assistant Salary in Canada By On Experience Level
Experience is a key factor in determining a dental assistant’s salary in Canada. As professionals gain skills and expertise, their earning potential increases significantly, along with opportunities for advanced roles and responsibilities.
Below is a breakdown of average salaries by experience level in 2025:
| Experience Level | Average Salary Per Year |
| 0-2 Years | CAD 45,000 |
| 2-5 Years | CAD 57,900 |
| 5-10 Years | CAD 74,300 |
| 10-15 Years | CAD 91,700 |
| 15-20 Years | CAD 99,600 |
| 20+ Years | CAD 105,800 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Canada By On Education Level
Higher education and specialized training can significantly enhance a Dental assistant salary in Canada. Completing advanced certifications or degrees opens doors to better-paying roles and increased responsibilities. Let’s understand how education level plays a key role in determining earning potential in this profession.
| Degree | Average Salary Per Year |
| Certificate or Diploma | CAD 64,500 |
| Advanced Certification (e.g., Level II Dental Assisting) | CAD 78,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | CAD 100,100 |
Top Companies for Dental Assistants in Canada
Working in Canada as a Dental Assistant can be rewarding, no matter which company. But it is still better to know the best ones in order to set long-term goals. This also helps you decide how much you wish to earn in the future.
Therefore, in the following table of average Dental Assistant salary in Canada by top companies:
| Company | Average Salary Per Year |
| York Region | CAD 107,479 |
| Smiles Dental Group | CAD 94,824 |
| WORKFORCE Dental Staffing Solutions | CAD 65,000 |
| dental corp | CAD 58,000 |
| Alberta Health Services | CAD 80,000 |
| Dental Office | CAD 62,400 |
| Saskatchewan Health Authority | CAD 55,000 |
| Nursing & Homemakers Inc. | CAD 86,294 |
| Nova Scotia Health Authority | CAD 84,401 |
| Smile Direct Club | CAD 75,818 |
Do you know what is the Average Nurse Salary in Canada?
Which Canadian Cities Offer the Best Salaries for Dental Assistants?
Salaries for dental assistants vary across Canada due to differences in demand, cost of living, and regional healthcare needs. Urban centers with higher demand for dental services often offer better pay.
To have a better understanding of this structure, here is an analysis of the Dental Assistant salary in Canada by different cities:
| City | Average Salary Per Year |
| Edmonton | CAD 93,464 |
| Burnaby | CAD 93,532 |
| Ottawa | CAD 87,456 |
| Ontario | CAD 50,700 |
| Abbotsford | CAD 91,613 |
| Surrey | CAD 91,330 |
| London | CAD 83,534 |
| Scarborough | CAD 82,766 |
| Milton | CAD 80,658 |
| Quebec | CAD 43,938 |
| North York | CAD 80,594 |
| New Brunswick | CAD 45,825 |
| Saskatchewan | CAD 53,625 |
Dental assistants may explore related roles with similar responsibilities but different titles. These positions often offer competitive salaries and opportunities for career diversification. Here are some jobs that have the same role as a Dental Assistant with their salaries.
| Jobs | Average Salary Per Year |
| Dental Receptionist | CAD 54,500 |
| Sterilization Technician | CAD 50,000 |
| Orthodontic Assistant | CAD 49,000 |
| Treatment Coordinator | CAD 45,000 |
| Dental Technician | CAD 70,000 |
| Front Desk Receptionist | CAD 40,000 |
| Hygienist | CAD 84,825 |
| Laboratory Technician | CAD 54,274 |
| Unit Assistant | CAD 47,697 |
Is a Dental Assistant a Good Career in Canada?
Definitely! A dental assistant is an excellent career path for those interested in healthcare who want to make a positive impact or want to work with people. The following are the reasons why you must consider a dental assistant job in Canada.
- As per the Canadian government’s Job Bank, dental assistant jobs are only going to grow in the future. There is a high demand for this job due to an increase in oral health awareness and the ageing population.
- Career advancement opportunities, like specialising in a particular field, are available
- You can work full-time or part-time. Also, the job satisfaction rate is high
- Moreover, dental assistants earn a high income. However, the exact income can differ based on factors like experience level, location, and more.
To learn more about the demand for dental assistants in Canada, watch the video below:
How to Become a Dental Assistant?
Now you have an idea of the Dental Assistant salary in Canada. Let’s look at the steps to becoming one. Typically, you need to complete a dental assistant program and obtain provincial certification. Once certified, you can start applying for jobs in your area. To make it easier, here’s a step-by-step guide to launching your career as a dental assistant in Canada:
- Education: In terms of education, you are only required to attend an 8-1 year dental assistant program. These programs are available at community and local colleges.
- License: The type of license you require depends on the region you are working in. Each province has its own requirements and regulatory board. You will find specific information on the Canadian Dental Assistants Association regulatory board.
- Examination: Licensure is not needed for every Canadian territory. However, most of the provinces require you to clear the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam.
To learn more about the NDAEB exam, watch the video below:
Have a look at these Top 5 Healthcare Jobs in Canada by Demand
A career as a dental assistant in Canada offers a rewarding blend of competitive salaries, job stability, and growth opportunities. With an average annual dental assistant salary in Canada is approximately CAD 86,196 and projected job openings of 17,000 by 2031, this profession is ideal for those passionate about healthcare and patient care. By gaining experience, pursuing advanced certifications, and targeting high-demand regions, dental assistants can significantly boost their earning potential.
FAQs
The Dental Assistant salary in Canada is around 26.38 CAD per hour. This means that you will earn around 6,103 CAD per month in Canada as a Dental Assistant, as per Indeed reports. Likewise, your yearly turnover would be around 86,196 CAD, which is amazing.
To become a dental assistant in Canada, you will need to complete a college program or any other program in dental assisting or related subjects. However, completion of secondary school with on-the-job training is also acceptable.
The highest paid Dental Assistant salary in Canada is 107,479 CAD per year. Dental Assistants with considerable experience and training get paid this much.
Yes. BDS is a recognised degree in Canada. However, after completing the BDS course, you need to clear the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB). The reason is that Indian dental degrees are considered non-accredited.
The Dental Assistant program in Canada is held for 52 weeks to up to a year. The course covers a lot of topics like Dental Microbiology, Dental Materials, and Dental Radiography.
In Canada, dental assistants are required to complete a college diploma. The college diploma takes at least 8 months to complete. Most of these diploma programs consist of a practical assignment. For example, an externship must be completed.
This was all about Dental Assistant salaries in Canada. For more such informative blogs on jobs that pay a high salary, follow Jobs Abroad on Leverage Edu.
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