Practicing orthodontics in Canada with an education from outside the country involves several steps to ensure your credentials are recognized and you meet the standards set by Canadian regulatory bodies. Here's an overview of the process:
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Assessment of Credentials:
- World Education Services (WES): You may need to have your educational credentials assessed by an organization like WES to determine their equivalency to Canadian standards.
- National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB): You must complete the NDEB's equivalency process if your dental degree is from a non-accredited institution.
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NDEB Equivalency Process:
- Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge: A written exam to assess your knowledge in basic and clinical sciences.
- Assessment of Clinical Judgement: An exam to evaluate your clinical decision-making skills.
- Assessment of Clinical Skills: A practical exam to assess your clinical skills.
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NDEB Certification Process:
- After passing the equivalency exams, you must pass the NDEB Written Examination and the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
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Specialty Certification:
- Apply to a Canadian orthodontic specialty program (typically 2-3 years in duration) that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
- Alternatively, you may undergo the National Dental Specialty Examination (NDSE) in Orthodontics if you already have specialty training in orthodontics from outside Canada. This is administered by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (RCDC).
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Licensing:
- Obtain a license to practice from the provincial or territorial regulatory authority where you plan to work. Each province has its own licensing requirements and procedures, so it's important to contact the relevant dental regulatory authority for detailed information.
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Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, depending on the province or territory where you wish to practice. This may require passing a language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
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Immigration Requirements:
- Ensure you meet the immigration requirements to live and work in Canada. This may involve applying for a work visa, permanent residency, or other relevant immigration status.
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Continuing Education:
- Once licensed, you will need to participate in continuing education to maintain your license and stay updated with advancements in orthodontics.
Each step involves detailed procedures and requirements, so it's advisable to check the specific guidelines provided by the NDEB, RCDC, and the provincial or territorial regulatory authority.
