Dentistry Archives - Prep Doctors Education

Welcome to Prep Doctors: A Legacy of Excellence in Global Dental Equivalency

At Prep Doctors, we stand at the forefront of dental equivalency education, uniting aspiring dentists from around the world with their dreams of practicing in Canada, Australia, and the United States. Our legacy spans over 13 years, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the empowerment of foreign-trained dentists on a global scale.

 

Our Global Reach

 

Prep Doctors’ impact extends far beyond borders. With a global reach that spans continents, we’ve helped dentists from diverse backgrounds and nations achieve their dental equivalencies in North America and Australia. 

Our community is a testament to the unifying power of education, with students hailing from countries across the globe, creating a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences.

 

Our Legacy: 13 Years of Excellence

 

Our journey began in 2011, fueled by a passion for empowering aspiring dentists to bridge the gap between their international qualifications and their dream of practicing in North America and later Australia. Over the years, our commitment to excellence has only grown stronger. We are proud to be backed by a dedicated team of professionals with unparalleled expertise in dental education and equivalency processes. With each passing year, we’ve continued to refine and improve our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our students.

 

Dental Equivalency Training

Dental Equivalency: 10,780+ Students Passed

 

Prep Doctors isn’t just an institution; it’s a community of driven individuals who have embarked on the path to success. With immense pride, we can share that more than 10,780 of our students have become dentists in Canada, Australia, and the USA. Each success story is a testament to our commitment to your success, and it’s these stories that inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of excellence. Check out our Testimonials here.

 

Prep Doctors Full Classroom

 

Proven Results: 85%+ Passing Rate

 

We understand that the journey to dental licensure can be challenging, but it’s not one you have to undertake alone. Our courses and guidance have consistently demonstrated results, with an impressive passing rate of over 85%. We don’t just aim for success; we aim for your success on the very first attempt. Our mission is to more than double your chances of passing equivalency exams, and our track record speaks for itself.

 

Excellent Service

 

Our Comprehensive Course Offerings

 

At Prep Doctors, our primary focus is on your success. We offer a range of comprehensive course offerings, each meticulously tailored to meet the specific requirements of the equivalency examinations and board exams in Canada, Australia, and the United States. Our commitment to your educational journey is centered on providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. 


Below, we will provide you with a brief overview of the various courses we provide.

 

Prep Doctors Services

NDEB Canadian Dental Equivalency

 

For those aspiring to practice dentistry in Canada, our NDEB Canadian Dental Equivalency Courses have been carefully designed to prepare you for the NDEB Exams:

  • Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK): This course provides a deep dive into the fundamental knowledge required for success in the AFK exam, covering essential dental science subjects.
  • Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ): Our ACJ course focuses on honing your clinical judgment skills, including treatment planning and patient management.
  • NDECC (National Dental Examining Board Case-Based Clinical): This course offers practical and clinical case simulations to refine your skills and l decision-making abilities 
  • Virtual OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination): Prepare for the final exam which all dentists have to complete we offer immersive virtual practice sessions.

 

Our curriculum comprehensively covers the entire spectrum of knowledge essential for success in the Canadian Dental Equivalency Process.


Here is a Blog explaining, How to become a dentist in Canada.


Here is how one of our students scored a Perfect 100 in the AFK Exam.

 How I Scored 100 in AFK | Dr. Hima Lohi | Prep Doctors

 

ADC Australian Dental Equivalency

 

Australia sets high standards for dental practice, and our ADC Australian Dental Equivalency Courses are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet these standards:

 

  • ADC Part 1: Dive into a comprehensive review of dental knowledge domains, with extensive practice tests and skill-building workshops to enhance your problem-solving abilities.
  • ADC Part 2: Prepare for the clinical examination with clinical case simulations, hands-on practice, and detailed feedback from experienced instructors.

    Check out our Blog on, How to Become a Dentist in Australia.

INBDE American Dental Equivalency

 

The United States offers a diverse dental landscape, and our INBDE American Dental Equivalency Course is geared towards preparing you for the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE).

 

Our approach is centered on providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, ensuring you are well-prepared for the American Board Examination.

Here is a Youtube video on, Everything about the INBDE:

 Everything About INBDE

A Partnership for Success

 

At Prep Doctors, we are more than educators; we are your partners in success. We understand the intricacies of the equivalency journey, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our legacy is built on your success stories, and we are committed to helping you realize your dream of practicing dentistry in North America and Australia.

Whether you’re embarking on this journey for the first time or seeking to enhance your existing knowledge, Prep Doctors is your trusted companion. Join our global community, and let’s make your dental dreams a reality. We have more to come!

 

To help give you the best information to make an informed decision, Prep Doctors offers scheduled tours of our campus and facilities, as well as demo classes. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the dental equivalency journey. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca We are more than happy to help!

AFK Exam: 5 Simple Hacks to Improve Your Analytical Thinking

The Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK exam) is a written exam designed to test your knowledge of biomedical science and applied clinical science. It is also really important because it is the admission requirement for many Canadian Degree Completion Programs and the gateway to the rest of the NDEB equivalency process

To put it simply, you must cram four years of instructional learning into a single exam before moving through the next stages of your dental equivalency process. Considering this test covers everything from Anatomy to Pharmacology and a slew of other dental subjects, it can often feel like an overwhelming task.

We need analytical thinking as human beings. This mindset allows us to find unique solutions to problems, plan to overcome the situation, and then take action to reach our goals. Taking the AFK exam is no different. 

To become a dentist in Canada, focusing on your analytical skills will boost your ability to breeze through any exam setting.

So, how do we boost our ability to relax our minds, start detecting patterns, and solve complex problems? It comes down to hacking the test in a way that elevates your capabilities. 

Don’t worry. 

That might not sound very easy, but with consistency and our five hacks to improve your analytical thinking, you’ll feel fully prepared to study for the AFK exam.

 

Hack #1: Know the Test Format

You need to become so comfortable with the AFK test format that fear is completely removed from your success equation. Anytime you let fear of failure creep into your mind, you stunt the creation of long-term memories. 

This short circuits your ability to retain all the practice and studying you have completed along the way.

A great way to do this is to join an AFK study group and complete sample questions.  You want to familiarize yourself with what the AFK will feel, look, and actually be like on exam day. It should be like greeting an old friend at your home instead of a stranger.

This way, you are hacking your brain to rely on the information you have gathered and not some irrational fear of the unknown.

But hang on! DO NOT spend all your study time in study groups — your AFK course will provide you with ample test and format preparation. Use groups as a hack to solidify your memory. And if a group isn’t focused or taking up too much time, simply drop it!

 

Hack #2: Kill the Distractions

One of the most common barriers to analytical thinking is distractions. So, you need to adopt the mindset to kill your distractions. That means anything that prevents you from engaging in analytical thoughts, like digital screens, social activities, ringing phones, or even the faucet down the hall, that will not stop dripping.

Obviously, you want a healthy life full of balance, so you must dedicate some established time and space to studying each day. 

A “safe study zone” free from anything that distracts your focus away from the task at hand. Friends and family should know that when you enter this space, you are on a mission to study for the AFK exam

This is not a time to answer questions about where the phone charger is from your roommate. 

This is the critical time you need to stay consistent with every topic so there are no surprises when it comes to taking the test.

 

Hack #3: Go Beyond Memorization

Want to pass the AFK exam? Go beyond memorizing data and then regurgitating it on a piece of paper or a screen. Analytical thinking is all about problem-solving. 

When you apply yourself to each practice quiz in your AFK course, try to think of it differently. Give each question the weight of a real-world scenario.

Develop a hunger for a deeper understanding of why this question is crucial for you to know in the first place, and you’ll get to the answer a bit easier.

A good dentist never stops asking questions about why things are happening and how they can be improved. 

More than 93% of business and non-profit leaders believe those who demonstrate analytical thinking are better at communication and complex problem-solving. 

This is because you are willing to identify problems, select information when evaluating the issue, and draw a conclusion based on your collected evidence.

So, to apply this skill to improve your AFK results, go beyond memorization and:

• Read each question carefully so you fully understand the problem. 
• Rely on your memory to give you the criteria for formulating an answer. 
• Ask your instructor to clarify if something just doesn’t make sense to you.
• Present a solution based on the best-fit information you have collected and compare it to any hints on the exam, like multiple choice or key phrases that stand out to your mind.

 

Hack #4: Visualize Your Goal

No matter how you might feel about visualization, it works. Formal, structured goal setting leads to higher levels of engagement and achievement in individual performance. In other words, make a plan to study and pass your AFK exam.

Give yourself a definitive timeline and set a date for taking your exam. Break studying into smaller chunks for how much you’ll study each day and where you hope to be in 1, 4, 8, or 12 weeks. 

Put that schedule on sticky notes all over your study space and keep the idea that you will be successful in the front of your mind. You’ll feed your analytical mind with motivation to work harder.

 

Hack #5: This is a Marathon

This last hack is a reminder. It’s just that simple: this is a marathon. You are not going to pass the AFK exam with only a day of review. Instead, this is a long-term study plan requiring dedication and commitment. So, find all the resources you can, build a study plan, join a study group, designate a space, and get to work.

Consistency breeds confidence, and you need to endure the negative thoughts of failure to move on to the next stage of your successful dental career.

The AFK exam is only a stepping stone along your professional dental journey but a critical one to take. Use these mental hacks to switch up the way your analytical mind works, and you will see fantastic returns when examination day comes. 

You can do this! Don’t forget Prep Doctors is here to help. 

Head over to our AFK Course page to learn more about our AFK Full Course, Crash Course, or Review Package options and when you can begin studying for your first NDEB exam.

 

About the Author

Karen Nunez was born in Valenzuela, Philippines. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Centro Escolar University in Manila.

Karen currently is a practicing oral health care professional based in Alberta, Canada; and runs a website where she writes a slew of articles to empower internationally trained dentists to integrate into Canadian dentistry.

Read more of her blogs here.

3 Jobs You Can Get in Ontario While Completing the NDEB Process

If there is one question we get asked the most, it’s “What job can I get while completing the NDEB process?” 

We get it. 

With NDEB exam fees, travel costs, and caring for your family in a new country, the weight of needing a steady income while training to become a certified dentist in Ontario is heavy. The trouble is that the job market for an international dentist can seem very limited when you are working towards your dental equivalency. 

Through the years, our trainees have taken up various roles, such as dental assisting or leadership positions in a dental office, without the need to be fully “certified.” Nevertheless, in Ontario, there are legal requirements you need to know about. We asked our Compliance & Education Specialist, Dr. Lesia Waschuk, to outline three possible job opportunities you can take up in a dental office or commercial dental laboratory and the duties you can perform as allowed within our provincial regulatory framework for the oral health professions. 

Let’s dive in. 

 

 

1) Working as a dental assistant or receptionist

 

As an international dentist, you could work as a chairside dental assistant or a dental receptionist in a dental practice, independent dental hygiene practice or denturism practice without certification by the Ontario Dental Assistants Association.

 

2) Working as a treatment coordinator

 

Some dental offices have treatment coordinators who also don’t need to be certified or licenced; however, in Ontario, communicating a diagnosis as the cause of a patient’s symptoms is a controlled act restricted to dentists. It’s important to understand it is a dentist’s legal obligation to obtain the patient’s informed consent to treatment, so there is some information that the dentist must provide to the patient themself. 

In a treatment coordinator role, your responsibilities could range from providing general information about the nature and timeline for treatment or arranging an appointment schedule to making financial arrangements for payment with the patient or the individual responsible for the patient’s account. Additionally, you could provide information about the mechanics of treatment, review audiovisual recordings or interactive online learning material with the patient, supply written information (as requested by the patient or directed by the dentist), or show models or examples of devices the dentist has prescribed. The dentist is responsible for discussing the prognosis, risks, side effects and expected (therapeutic or cosmetic) benefits and answering any questions related to the patient’s clinical condition or alternative forms of treatment that could be provided.

 

3) Working as an (uncertified) lab technician

 

Without certification, it is possible to work as a lab technician in a commercial dental laboratory under the supervision of a dentist or registered dental technologist; you can also work in private practice under the supervision of a dentist in an in-office dental laboratory. 

In this role, though, you cannot identify yourself as a dental technician or dental technologist because that is a protected title in Ontario, and you would need to be registered (licenced) with the College of Dental Technologists of Ontario in order to use it. In any case, you would not be providing any services directly to patients, and you would not be performing any intraoral procedures. 

Now, there are a few other statutory requirements that you should be aware of if you want to perform these functions in Ontario:

 

If you want to be able to take dental radiographs as prescribed by an RCDSO-registered dentist:

 

In order to expose dental radiographs that have been prescribed by a dentist who is registered in Ontario, you need to be “HARP-certified.” 

The Healing Arts Radiation Protection (HARP) Act is a provincial statute; the X-Ray Safety code is a regulation that further sets out the installation, testing and quality assurance requirements for diagnostic radiographic equipment and the qualifications of “dental x-ray workers” who can operate the equipment. To operate diagnostic radiographic equipment in Ontario, you would have to complete a full dental assisting program or course in dental radiography that has been approved by the Director of X-ray Safety at the Ministry of Health. (Members of the RCDSO and the CDHO are able to take X-rays by virtue of their license.) 

We suggest looking for a program that is “HARP-approved.” If you are considering taking a dental assisting program (level I or level II) at a community college or private career college, or a continuing education course in dental radiography in Ontario, contact us, and we will let you know whether the program is on the updated list of HARP-approved programs and courses that we have received from the Ministry.

 

If you want to be able to perform intraoral procedures as a level II dental assistant:

 

To perform intraoral procedures (that are considered in the public domain and are not considered controlled acts) as a level II dental assistant, you would have to successfully complete the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) examinations. 

You can register for the NDAEB exams on the basis of your qualifications as an international dentist, and if you have registered for the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) examinations, you can use the documentation of your registration with the NDEB when you register with the NDAEB. You do not need to have your educational credentials reassessed again in that case. 

If you have not completed a formal program in dental assisting in Canada, you will need to successfully complete both the NDAEB Written Examination and the NDAEB Clinical Practice Evaluation to attain your NDAEB certificate. You can find further information about how to register for the NDAEB exams on the NDAEB website

 

If you want to perform additional intraoral procedures as a level II dental assistant:

 

Level II dental assistants in Ontario who have successfully completed a supplemental course in orthodontics or restorative dentistry for level II dental assistants can now also perform (prescribed) orthodontic or restorative procedures, respectively. You can read more about the requirements for the two supplemental courses in the RCDSO Standard of Practice for the Performance of Intra-Oral Procedures that are Not Controlled Acts by Preventive Dental Assistants, Level II Dental Assistants and Registered Dental Hygienists.

Further, Prep Doctors offers a supplemental course in orthodontics for level II dental assistants. To learn more or to register for our next session in June, take a look at our Practical Orthodontic Skills course page

As you can see, a range of opportunities exists even while you are working your way through the equivalency process. The best thing you can do is reach out to different dental clinics to see what options are available and keep your eyes peeled for our next blog post about other positions in the dental industry that our doctors have taken up. 

Don’t forget to subscribe to our social media channels for the latest news from Prep Doctors and what our graduates are up to next.

 

Long-Awaited NDECC® Lab is Finally Open in Vancouver

Passing your NDECC® exams just got a whole lot easier with our highly requested clinical competence lab now officially open in Vancouver, Canada. 

Over the years, we’ve heard calls from dentists to bring a clinical skills and clinical competency lab to the west coast. And with the introduction of the NDEB’s NDECC® Test Centre in Ottawa, our trainees would have to travel to Mississauga or Richmond Hill for training and mock exams. Who has the longest trip in our vast country? That would be you, BC dentists. 

So today, we are pleased to announce the official opening of our clinical competency lab at our Vancouver campus. The Vancouver lab now offers our trainees the opportunity to train in a similar environment to the real exam with our detailed exercise booklet and procedural manual, expert instructors, live demos and our new mock exam packages (the only true NDECC simulation exam in British Columbia). 

Trainees can book full Clinical Skills or Situational Judgement courses, the NDECC Simulation Exam Pack, the NDECC Simulation Exam, the Single Clinical Simulation Exam, or the Single Situational Simulation Exam close to their exam day.

 

 

What does each NDECC Mock Package contain?

 

With the NDECC Simulation Exam Pack, each trainee will undergo two full mock exams, with Day 1 covering the Clinical Skills component that includes: 

– An 8-hour clinical exam on A-dec units
– Infection control marking
– Anonymous marking by highly qualified instructors
– Detailed reports provided for students
– One-on-one mock discussion session

 

While Day 2 will assess the Situational Judgement component with the following:

– A 3-hour simulated NDEB situational exam
– 10 stations (5 role-play stations + 5 written stations)
– One-on-one discussions for role-play stations
– 3+ hour lecture dedicated to written stations discussion and Q&A

 

When purchasing the NDECC Simulation Exam, trainees receive the same features and two-day experience with Clinical Skills and Situational Judgement components with a single full mock exam.  

Finally, suppose you have already cleared one of your NDECC® exams and need more practice with just one exam portion. In that case, trainees can book a single mock for either Clinical Skills OR Situational Judgement.

Each package will begin on April 2 and 3 and have flexible start dates to fit your exam schedule best. The Vancouver lab is already operating, so beat the waiting list and secure your spot in the Vancouver lab in our Clinical Skills and Situational Judgement courses.

How to Finance the NDEB Process in 2023

Now that you’ve decided to take on Canada’s dental equivalency process and achieve your dream of becoming a dentist in Canada, you are faced with another major question: how do I pay for the exams and courses I will need to pass? And it’s not as if the NDEB process is cheap. The direct and related costs can mount up to a significant investment — albeit an investment that has the potential to pay off with great rewards. So, if you are wondering what options you have, here is an exhaustive list we have compiled to help you figure out how to finance your NDEB process in 2023.

1) FCR Loans Programs

Foreign Credential Recognition or FDR loan programs are funded by the government. The interest rate on these loans varies, but it is usually around prime + 1% to 2%. FCR loans provide a line of credit of up to $15,000 and are paid back like normal loans. In the list below, you will find some FCR Loans programs and consultants we have worked with in the past to help finance your NDEB journey. If you are not eligible for the programs listed below, we recommend visiting immigration information centres in your area and inquiring about local foreign loan credential programs for financing.

Basic requirements to qualify:

NDEB registration approval
PR / Approved Refugee / Canadian Citizenship
Study Plan

Our recommended programs:

Achēv
Contact: Ruwaida Al-Kubaisi (Career & Training Counsellor)
Foreign Credential Recognition Loans Program
50 Burnhamthorpe Rd W #300, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C2
Email: ral-kubaisi@tcet.com
Phone: (647) 394- 5978

Access Community Capital Fund
401 Richmond St. W, Suite 375, Toronto, ON, M5V 3A8
Email: info@accessccf.com
Phone: (416) 462-0496

Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS)
Surrey Head Office: #205 12725 80th Avenue, Surrey, BC, V3W 3A6
Phone: (604) 596-7722

Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia
2610 Victoria Dr. Vancouver, BC V5N 4L2
info@issbc.org
(604) 684-2561

Welland Heritage Council and Multicultural Center
26 East Main St. Welland, ON L3B 3W3
Toll-Free: 1 (888)-764-9041
info@wellandheritagecouncil.com

The Learning Enrichment Foundation
116 Industry Street M6M 4L8, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
(416) 769-0830

 

2) Charitable organizations supporting internationally trained dentists (ITDs)

Featured in this section are charitable organizations like Windmill Microlending. This Canada-wide non-profit offers affordable loans of up to $15,000 to help skilled immigrants and refugees pay for the costs of accreditation, qualifying exams, education, training, professional association fees, and even the cost of living and child care while you study. Windmill is supported by the Government of Canada and financial institutions across the country.

About Windmill Microlending

For internationally trained dentists (ITDs) located in any part of Canada, Windmill can provide low-interest loans to help you pay for the costs associated with your licensure process. Not to mention, 2023 brings with it a new lower interest rate.

As of January 1, 2023, Windmill Microlending is offering all new loans at a fixed interest rate of 5.95% for the entire loan duration. This is a great opportunity for all international dentists to get the cheapest financing option since OSAP and a student line of credit.

They are partners with CIBC offering a variable rate loan of up to $100,000 CAD specifically customized for ITDs on their journey to get accredited in Canada. Just registering with the NDEB will get you access to $25,000 CAD with Windmill Microlending. After completing AFK, you will have access to a further $10,000 CAD, and once you have cleared ACJ, another $50,000 CAD is available (all from CIBC). That could be a huge help for the financial challenges that the NDECC® exam will bring. Once your NDEB equivalency process is complete, you will have another $15,000 CAD to help you prepare for the Virtual OSCE® exam and any other costs you might encounter as you enter the Canadian dental job market.  Learn more: https://windmillmicrolending.org/cibc/.

Basic Eligibility:

To be eligible for a Windmill microloan, you must:

Be internationally trained or have a minimum of one year of post-secondary work experience before coming to Canada.

Currently be living in Canada as a Permanent Resident, Provincial Nominee, Canadian Citizen, Protected Person, or Convention Refugee.

Contact: info@teamwindmill.org
1 (855)-423-2262 (Toll-free from anywhere in Canada)

Or visit: www.windmillmicrolending.org

 

Servus-Bredin Microloans

The Servus-Bredin Microloans program provides loans of up to $15,000 to finance and support internationally educated professionals to continue, restart or advance their careers in Canada. The microloans can be used for:

Exam fees and licensing cost
Professional fees and skills upgrading
Books, laptop, study materials and work equipment
Education and training programs of two years or less
English language training as a pre-requisite for your studies

Key Features:

An interest of Prime + 1.5%
Build credit history in Canada
Available to clients across Alberta
A manageable repayment period of up to four years with no penalty for an early payment
Applicants must have a licensure/education plan
Repayment for approved loans is 45-days after the loan is issued
The maximum amount available for each applicant is $15,000. If applicants also have microloans from other programs, the total amount borrowed from all the programs together cannot be more than $15,000. If applicants pay back their first microloan, they may be eligible for another through the program.

Basic Eligibility:

Have the right to live and work in Canada
Be a resident of Alberta
Have professional-level education or training obtained outside of Canada
Have sufficient income or resources to make repayments on the microloan

Contact: Sahar Ghanem at Sahar.ghanem@bredin.caor you may submit a form on their website here.

 

3) Private Banks – CIBC’s ITD Banking Bundle

This loan provides a line of credit of up to $100,000 in intervals and bundles it with some attractive offers. As mentioned above, CIBC is now in partnership with Windmill Microlending, meaning that if you haven’t cleared the AFK exam, you would need to start with Windmill. After completing AFK, you will be able to apply for this much larger loan that will help you complete the process.

Basic requirements to qualify:
NDEB registration approval
Permanent Residency / Canadian Citizenship
650 or above credit score
Study plan

 


 

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The Ultimate Guide to Boost Your Memory and Concentration

You’re a dental student, meaning you are expected to have an advanced memory and be able to concentrate for hours on end. You can’t afford to let your brain go all wonky during exams.

Building your memory and concentration capabilities is like developing any other skill. It takes time and practice to integrate healthy habits into your lifestyle so that your brain power is maximized. You want your energy and mental capacity to operate at full throttle whether you are entering a dental school in Canada or trying to pass your NDEB exams. 

Here are some tips for boosting your memory and concentration:

 

1. Eat Better

You do not need the body of a swimmer to be a dentist. However, you work in the medical field and should be more than aware that a healthy body equals an active mind.

The best foods to eat to boost your memory and concentration are those high in B vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and other nutrients.

Foods rich in these nutrients can help your brain function at a higher level. Balancing your diet with the essential nutrients you need will improve your memory and reduce brain fog.

 

2. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is the best thing you can do to boost your memory and concentration. In fact, research has shown that sleep deprivation impairs the hippocampus, the part of your brain responsible for consolidating learning and memory. Think about amount of memory power you need for the AFK exam or all the radiographs you need to interpret for ACJ – good sleep should be a key part of your strategy for success.

Shoot for somewhere between 6-9 hours of quality sleep a night. Everyone is different, but that would put you at the average.

 

3. Get Up and Move!

If you want to boost your memory and concentration, then the best thing that you can do is exercise regularly. Exercise not only helps keep your body healthy, but it also has many positive effects on your brain and mind.

Even attending a cycle class twice a week can make you feel more alert and refreshed. Your body will produce neurotransmitters that boost your mood, motivating you to study and focus on what needs to be done to pass your next midterm university or NDEB exams.

 

4. Lower Stress

When stressed, our body produces hormones like cortisol which can negatively affect cognition. In fact, one study found that stressed people had an increased risk of short-term memory loss by up to 40%. 

Other studies have shown that stress could make it tougher to learn new information and remember things while causing headaches or feelings of fatigue more often.

Do what you can to lower your stress levels. Take pauses throughout the day, and remember to breathe. You can do this!

 

5. Meditate

Mindfulness meditation is a simple technique that can be practiced anywhere, even while you are engaged in other activities. It involves focusing on the present moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. When you practice mindfulness meditation, you move away from a stressful mindset by focusing instead on what is happening right now—the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you.

There are endless studies proving meditation is a surefire way to improve mental focus and concentration. Even 10 minutes a day with a free mobile app can boost your cognitive capabilities.

 

6. Socialize

Socializing with people unknown to you is also important so the brain can create new memories and associations. In this way, we can use different memories together to improve our ability to recall things that would otherwise be difficult for us.

Social interaction also protects against depression and stress, adversely affecting memory loss. It will also help you to prepare for the interactions you will have with patients in the university clinics, actors the NDECC® Situational Judgement exam and real world patients once you are licensed to practice dentistry in Canada.  

 

7. Get Organized

To boost your memory, you’re going to have to organize. Not just tidy—organize.

Organization is more than just being able to keep your house clean and tidy. It’s about being efficient in the things you do, so you can get more done in less time.

It’s also about being able to find the things that you need when you need them. And it helps if those things are where they should be when needed.

 

8. Try Evidence-Based Supplements

Supplementing your diet with some beneficial nutrients and herbs can help improve cognitive function and the brain’s ability to store new information. Only use what is scientifically proven to work, and consult your medical provider beforehand to not negate any medications you are taking.

You can try things like:

• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
• Gingko Biloba
• Vitamin E

 

Be Gentle with Yourself

There are numerous other ways to improve your memory, but these are the best options for dental students. You can try flashcards, have group study sessions, or employ mnemonic devices.

In the end, you want to be gentle with yourself because this process is a marathon, not a sprint. You can achieve success on your NDEB or dental school exams and, later, your dentistry practice by integrating habits that optimize your energy more than your time.

If you’re struggling with memory and concentration, take some time to assess your lifestyle and see what you can do to improve it. A few simple changes can significantly affect your ability to remember things and stay focused on tasks.

 

About the Author

Karen Nunez was born in Valenzuela, Philippines. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Centro Escolar University in Manila.

Karen currently is a practicing oral health care professional based in Alberta, Canada; and runs a website where she writes a slew of articles to empower internationally trained dentists to integrate into Canadian dentistry.

Read more of her blogs here.

5 Ways to Manage Your Time While Studying for Your NDEB Exams

Do you find yourself cramming for exams and wishing you had spent more time on readings? You’re not alone. In fact, many students, including myself, have difficulty managing their time effectively. 

Being an internationally trained dentist (ITD) in Canada brings some responsibilities that require subtle lifestyle changes. You are investing a great deal of time and money into a new lucrative career. You should want to increase your chances of success from the beginning. That requires focus and dedication.

However, instead of stressing about getting the correct answer on every practice exam, take a breath and step back for a moment. Look at the way you live daily and think about how you can better your time management skills so the end result is solid progress towards your goal. Focus on completing dental requirements and balancing your life to lower stress levels and feel good while studying.

 

Why Time Management Matters to Dental Students?

Time management is essential for dental students because of the amount of work involved. Between clinicals and theoretical studies, there is not enough of your day to spread out with friends, family, and the critical activities of life like paying your bills and maintaining a measure of quality health. 

Whether you are a first-year ITD preparing for an exam or a seasoned veteran one step away from opening a new practice, you already know there is so much to learn in this field. You don’t want your grades to suffer just because you didn’t manage your time correctly.

As a dentist, managing your time effectively is crucial because it will help with being productive at work and staying on top of your tasks. Having good time management skills will allow you to get more done while working fewer hours. It may not seem like much, but it will make a massive difference over time.

Think about how this prepares you for being a member of a dental practice. If you think you are busy now, imagine when you have hundreds of patients, a dental team, and supportive staff. Yes, you can delegate quite a bit to others, but there will be demands on your time that are not likely to go away anytime soon.

So, how can you manage your time while studying? Here’s a list of the five ways you can master this imperative skill.

 

1. Set Clear Goals and Simplify

You need to set goals and make sure that your goals are attainable. The key is to be specific about what you want, so that you can clearly identify the steps that will help you achieve it. If you have a practical test coming up, say you will spend 20 minutes every other day studying in this specific location with that peer every time.

Once you have goals, simplify everything. Remove the “fat” of extra distractions during your focused periods. Shut off your phone, turn off the TV, and give your mind the freedom to fully explore a topic or task.

 

2. Establish Habits

If you don’t have a habit, it’s challenging to be productive. That’s why you need to establish good habits in your daily routine. A habit is something that is repeated over a period of time. The more we do something, the more it becomes automatic and unconscious.

It’s human nature for us to form habits and make actions automatic so that we can focus on other things in our lives. By doing this, we become more productive because our mind is free from having to constantly think about what needs to be done next or what needs attention right now.Develop a solid routine where you always study for your dental work at a specific time of day and location. This ritual will signal to your brain that now is the time to focus.

 

3. Create a To-Do List

There are several different ways to create a to-do list, but they all serve the same purpose. They help you break tasks down into smaller, more manageable pieces and prioritize them based on importance or urgency. If you have a lot of assignments due at once and don’t know where to start, creating a to-do list will help you get organized so that you can tackle each task individually.

It helps to use smartphone apps or physical calendars to give each task a due date so you know what to do next. Eliminating confusion is one of the key methods to improving your time management skills.

 

4. Tackle One Thing at a Time

It is important to set aside one task at a time and dedicate all your energy to completing it. This will help you stay focused and prevent distractions. To avoid multitasking, try setting a timer for each task you need to complete. When the timer goes off, move on to the next task on your list.

Many students are guilty of getting distracted by their phones while they study or do homework. If you find yourself constantly checking social media or text messages while studying, try turning off notifications on your phone so that these notifications aren’t distracting you from what you need to get done.

 

5. Take Breaks & Get Healthy

Taking breaks is a necessity for your productivity. When you take breaks, your body and mind get to rest without losing focus on the task at hand, which can be extremely important when working on something that requires serious concentration. 

For example, if you’re studying for exams, taking regular breaks will help prevent eye strain—which can result in headaches if ignored for too long—and allow you to come back with fresh eyes and renewed energy.

Don’t forget to eat a well-balanced diet and get at least 20 minutes of exercise each day, even if it is a light walk around campus. You want your body to have the energy stores that allow you to focus on what needs to be done. This will help with procrastination, so your tasks do not build up and sabotage your time management efforts.

 

Bonus Tip: Join a Study Group

A great way to learn is by studying with others. It’s a lot easier to study if you have someone else there with you, helping you understand and remember what you’re learning. This is especially helpful with time management because it creates a social obligation around a designated task, placing a higher weight on something that should be a priority for your dental education.

 

Time Management is About Choices

At the end of the day, your time management skills are going to mainly depend on the choices you make. Even if you decide to create a schedule and eat a healthy diet, you still need stress relief. Going out to a movie when you should be studying may be okay every once and a while, but don’t forget the larger goal.

If you leverage your time management now, you will have more time for exciting things a little later on. Buckle down and develop these skills at this point in your career, and you will reap the benefits once you begin your dental practice.

 

About the Author

Karen Nunez was born in Valenzuela, Philippines. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Centro Escolar University in Manila.

Karen currently is a practicing oral health care professional based in Alberta, Canada; and runs a website where she writes a slew of articles to empower internationally trained dentists to integrate into Canadian dentistry.

Read more of her blogs here.

How to Finance Canadian Dental Equivalency in 2022

Now that you’ve decided to take on Canada’s dental equivalency process and achieve your dream of becoming a dentist in Canada, you are faced with another major question: how do I pay for the exams and courses I will need to pass? And it’s not as if the NDEB process is cheap, the direct and related costs can mount up to a significant investment — albeit an investment that has the potential to pay off with great rewards. So, if you are wondering what options you have, here is an exhaustive list we have compiled to help you figure out how to finance your NDEB dental equivalency process in 2022.

 

1) FCR Loans Programs

Foreign Credential Recognition or FDR loan programs are funded by the government. The interest rate on these loans varies but it is usually around prime + 1% to 2%. FCR loans provide a line of credit of up to $15,000 and are paid back like normal loans. In the list below, you will find some FCR Loans programs and consultants we have worked with within the past. If you are not eligible for the programs listed below, we recommend visiting immigration information centres in your area and inquiring about local foreign loan credential programs.

Basic requirements to qualify:

NDEB registration approval
PR / Approved Refugee / Canadian Citizenship
Study Plan

Our recommended programs:

Achēv
Contact: Ruwaida Al-Kubaisi (Career & Training Counsellor)
Foreign Credential Recognition Loans Program
50 Burnhamthorpe Rd W #300, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C2
Email: ral-kubaisi@tcet.com
Phone: (647) 394- 5978

Access Community Capital Fund
401 Richmond St. W, Suite 375, Toronto, ON, M5V 3A8
Email: info@accessccf.com
Phone: (416) 462-0496

Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS)
Surrey Head Office: #205 12725 80th Avenue, Surrey, BC, V3W 3A6
Phone: (604) 596-7722

Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia
2610 Victoria Dr. Vancouver, BC V5N 4L2
info@issbc.org
(604) 684-2561

Welland Heritage Council and Multicultural Center
26 East Main St. Welland, ON L3B 3W3
Toll-Free: 1 (888)-764-9041
info@wellandheritagecouncil.com

The Learning Enrichment Foundation
116 Industry Street M6M 4L8, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
(416) 769-0830

 

2) Charitable organizations supporting internationally trained dentists (ITDs)

Featured in this section are charitable organizations like Windmill Microlending, a Canada-wide non-profit that offers affordable loans of up to $15,000 to help skilled immigrants and refugees pay for the costs of accreditation, qualifying exams, education, training, professional association fees, even cost of living and child care while you study. Windmill is supported by the Government of Canada and financial institutions across the country.

About Windmill Microlending

For internationally trained dentists (ITDs) located in any part of Canada, Windmill can provide low-interest loans to help you pay for the costs associated with your licensure process.

They are partners with CIBC offering a variable rate loan specifically customized for ITDs on their journey to get accredited in Canada. Learn more: https://windmillmicrolending.org/cibc/

Basic Eligibility:

To be eligible for a Windmill microloan, you must:

Be an immigrant and a Permanent Resident, Protected Person, Convention Refugee, Provincial Nominee, Canadian Citizen or Temporary Foreign Worker with an open work permit*.

Be an internationally trained individual requiring licensing, re-training, or relocation to achieve your career goals.

Have landed in Canada.

Not have an undischarged bankruptcy.

Contact: info@teamwindmill.org
1 (855)-423-2262 (Toll-free from anywhere in Canada)

Or visit: www.windmillmicrolending.org

 

Servus-Bredin Microloans

The Servus-Bredin Microloans program provides loans of up to $15,000 to support internationally educated professionals to continue, restart or advance their careers in Canada. The microloans can be used for:

Exam fees and licensing cost
Professional fees and skills upgrading
Books, laptop, study materials and work equipment
Education and training programs of two years or less
English language training as a pre-requisite for your studies

Key Features:

An interest of Prime + 1.5%
Build credit history in Canada
Available to clients across Alberta
A manageable repayment period of up to four years with no penalty for an early payment
Applicants must have a licensure/education plan
Repayment for approved loans is 45-days after the loan is issued
The maximum amount available for each applicant is $15,000. If applicants also have microloans from other programs, the total amount borrowed from all the programs together cannot be more than $15,000. If applicants pay back their first microloan, they may be eligible for another through the program.

Basic Eligibility:

Have the right to live and work in Canada
Be a resident of Alberta
Have professional-level education or training obtained outside of Canada
Have sufficient income or resources to make repayments on the microloan

Contact: Sahar Ghanem at Sahar.ghanem@bredin.ca or you may submit a form on their website here.

 

3) Private Banks – CIBC’s ITD Banking Bundle

This loan provides a line of credit of up to $100,000 in intervals and bundles it with some attractive offers. As mentioned above CIBC is now in partnership with Windmill Microlending, meaning that if you haven’t cleared the AFK exam you would need to start with Windmill. After completing AFK you will be able to apply for this much larger loan that will help you complete the process.

Basic requirements to qualify:
NDEB registration approval
Permanent Residency / Canadian Citizenship
650 or above credit score
Study plan

 


 

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Careers in Dentistry Series: Why You Should Network as a Dental Student

There is a saying in business: “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” The same goes for the dental industry that thrives on building and maintaining relationships through networking.

In this edition of the Careers in Dentistry Series, our Compliance and Education Specialist, Dr. Lesia Waschuk, and her guest, Akhil Chawla, discuss networking for dental students and practitioners. As a second-year dental student at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Dentistry, and the host of The Majestic Mutt Podcast, Chawla discusses the value of conversations, confidence, and social media. As he and Dr. Waschuk recall how they met through LinkedIn, both Chawla and Dr. Waschuk comment on how to use social media platforms and which are more important in the dental industry. Chawla mentions the significance of creating a profile for visibility, networking both online and in-person, and how to connect with people through authenticity.  

Whether you’re just starting in your first year of dental school this fall, about to graduate or complete the NDEB equivalency process, there’s a great deal of networking that you can do now to set yourself up for a fantastic dental career once you complete your program. In addition, networking places you in a stronger position, as your classmates today maybe the people you work alongside in the future. Watch the full conversation below or on our YouTube page here.

 

 

Beyond networking in professional environments, it’s important to remember that everyone has something meaningful to offer. Reassuring yourself of this will allow for more meaningful conversations that will enable you to be more memorable. You can also start a LinkedIn profile with your updated resume, professional experience, volunteer and student leadership positions that will help you stand out while in school to get your name out in the industry and become top of mind for future employers.

And you don’t need to worry about having a huge following. “It really does come down to authenticity. Authenticity is really what’s wanted and needed and what people really resonate with,” says Chawla. 

 

About the Series

Our Prep Doctors Careers in Dentistry series is an opportunity for you to peek behind the curtain of various avenues of dentistry you can take from a career and business perspective. Hosted by Dr. Waschuk, we sit down with highly regarded dentists to discuss their career paths, the challenges and benefits of the field, and how you can get started on your dentistry journey.

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Careers in Dentistry Series: What Do DSOs Mean for Today’s Dentists?

If you’re a practising dentist or own a dental clinic, you’ve probably heard of dental support organizations before (or DSOs, for short). The dental industry has many moving parts. As a result, DSOs provide necessary relief to management running a solo dental practice or private group practice aside from clinical and dental procedures. This means DSOs allow dentists to maximize their practices by managing aspects such as billing, IT, marketing, human resources, payroll, accounting, and more.

This week’s interview in the Careers in Dentistry Series centres around DSOs and what opportunities DSO-affiliated dental clinics offer to new graduates and newly registered dentists in Canada. Speaking to our host, Dr. Lesia Waschuk—Compliance and Education Specialist at Prep Doctors—Sina Amiri, Vice-President for Strategic Markets at EDMS, advises that dentists consider their career goals, define their treatment philosophy, and suggests several questions dentists can ask when searching for the right fit in a DSO-affiliated dental clinic. As Amiri mentions, this includes understanding the autonomy a dentist may have when choosing vendors to work with for equipment. Watch the full interview below or on our YouTube page here.

 

 

By way of further background, Amiri mentions solo practices with mid-career dentists or dentists nearing retirement that are not affiliated with a DSO may offer better opportunities for mentorship and eventually ownership. While some DSOs have structured arrangements for associates to buy in and will look for clinical leadership skills. DSOs may also offer geographic mobility for associates who may wish to move later in their careers. It’s imperative that newly registered dentists screen the clinics they are interested in and ask the questions necessary to understand what a DSO-affiliated clinic can offer and what they cannot. 

 

About the Series

Our Prep Doctors Careers in Dentistry series is an opportunity for you to peek behind the curtain of various avenues of dentistry you can take from a career and business perspective. Hosted by Dr. Waschuk, we sit down with highly regarded dentists to discuss their career paths, the challenges and benefits of the field, and how you can get started on your dentistry journey.

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Careers in Dentistry Series: The Life of an Associate Dentist in Canada

What is it really like to be an associate dentist? That’s the question Chief Learning Officer, Dr. Marwan Al Rayes and Lecturer and Clinical Instructor, Dr. Ibrahim Saadeldin at Prep Doctors, is answering in this week’s edition of our Careers in Dentistry Series.

Talking to our host, Dr. Lesia Waschuk, the Compliance and Education Specialist at Prep Doctors, Dr. Al Rayes and Dr. Saadeldin, share their experiences in private practice at Denali Dental, where they are the principal and associate dentist, respectively. As they begin to discuss working in previous dental offices, Dr. Al Rayes describes the differences between being an associate, the entry-level position for recent dental graduates, and owning a dental clinic. He notes that the dental practice environment is quite diverse from providing care to patients in the teaching clinics in dental school. It wasn’t until he became a dental practice owner that he understood a principal’s concern with production and overhead. Dr. Saadeldin agreed, adding that the necessity in finding the right fit and best environment at a dental clinic to ensure comfortability and drive in your profession was of utmost importance. Watch the full interview below or on our YouTube page here.

 

 

Their advice? Trust your gut. Give the dental office you have joined in your associateship a fair chance, but believe in your abilities and how you are feeling after a day’s work. Speak to previous associates, as well. If there has been a high turnover of dentists, there may be a reason for this. Lastly, learn to communicate with the patients, dental assistants, and front desk staff. While there are both positives and negatives that may come from an associateship experience, there also may be signs that a dental practice may no longer be a good fit. In this case, there is nothing wrong with moving on to another opportunity where you can feel more confident.

 

About the Series

Our Prep Doctors Careers in Dentistry series is an opportunity for you to peek behind the curtain of various avenues of dentistry you can take from a career and business perspective. Hosted by Dr. Waschuk, we sit down with highly regarded dentists to discuss their career paths, the challenges and benefits of the field, and how you can get started on your dentistry journey.

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

What is the NDEB Equivalency Process?

For anyone looking to sink their teeth into Canadian dentistry, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada’s (NDEB) equivalency process is the place to start.

In Canada, dentistry is a regulated profession. The NDEB works with the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) to grant international dentists the opportunity to become licensed in Canada. With their three-step examination process, the NDEB provides a direct pathway into Canadian dentistry depending on where you obtained your dental education and if you would like to practise as a general dentist, specialist, or both.

What does this NDEB process look like? 

To begin, foreign-trained dentists must apply to be accepted into the Canadian dentistry equivalency process through the NDEB. 

  1. Apply through the NDEB equivalency portal here. You will need to create an NDEB login and online profile on their website as well. 
  2. Pass the AFK exam, the first NDEB exam. (Prep Doctors is now introducing our newest AFK online Crash Course for international dentists who cannot make it to our campuses this cycle.)
  3. Pass the ACJ and NDECC™ exams, the second and third NDEB exams. 
  4. Pass the Written Board and OSCE exams, known as the NDEB’s certification process

Direct Route NDEB Equivalency Process Time: 1.5-2.5 years
NDEB Equivalency Process Fees: $13,050 CAD
Prep Doctors Equivalency Course Fees: Up to $15,000 CAD
Total Equivalency Process Cost: Up to $30,000 CAD**

**This approximation amount is based on a combination of the current NDEB examinations and Prep Doctors Full Course option fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass.

The NDEB’s direct route may take 1.5 to 2.5 years to complete. The NDEB equivalency process costs approximately $30,000 CAD, including the Prep Doctors courses and NDEB exam fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass. When navigating the process, you can expect the following breakdown of NDEB equivalency process fees:

NDEB equivalency fees and tuition chart breakdown for what is the NDEB process blog

Learn more about the NDEB’s exam fees here.

The NDEB also provides foreign-trained dentists with the opportunity to enter the dental profession through a Canadian university. 

What does the university process look like? 

While providing a quicker pathway to the certification process, bridging programs (more accurately known as accredited qualifying and degree completion programs) follow a similar progression.

  1. Apply through the NDEB equivalency portal here. You will need to create an NDEB login and online profile on their website as well. 
  2. Pass the AFK exam with a high score, the first NDEB exam. (For some qualifying and degree completion programs, the AFK must be taken within the last three years of submitting your application. Please reach out to your interested dental school for admission requirements.)
  3. Enroll in and complete a qualifying and degree completion program offered by the Faculties of Dentistry in Canada. You can find a list of programs here
  4. Pass the Written Board and OSCE exams. 

Qualifying and Degree Completion Program Process Time: 2-3 years
Qualifying and Degree Completion Program Process Fees: Up to $90,000 CAD

Qualifying and degree completion programs are unique university programs held over five to six months. After successfully completing these programs, students are admitted into the third year of a Doctor of Dental Surgery Program, leading to a degree (DDS). Overall, a DDS can take two to 2.5 years to complete. The qualifying and degree completion programs process can cost approximately $90,000 CAD.

Regardless of the path you choose to take, each process begins with the AFK exam and ends with the Written Board and OSCE exam

Despite the challenges and intense regimen each NDEB equivalency process may take, Prep Doctors remains the best place to begin your journey, and we have the course for you. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the NDEB process and dental equivalency. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

How to Become a Dentist in Canada

On February 25, 2021, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) announced significant changes to the Canadian dental equivalency process. This article has been updated to reflect those changes.

Becoming an accredited dentist in Canada is no easy feat. The road to practicing dentistry is an intricate, ever-evolving, yet rewarding process that requires highly specialized training and professional development. 

For internationally trained dentists seeking to practice dentistry in Canada, the rewards for getting through the examination process and obtaining your license are tremendous as Canada now ranks in the top five countries in the world to practice dentistry in terms of salary and quality of professional life. First-year associates in Canada start with salaries around $150,000 CAD, and the earning potential for senior associates and clinic owners is vast. 

Currently, there are three routes available that lead to becoming a dentist in Canada. One option is to attend a Canadian university as an undergraduate. If you are an internationally-trained dentist, you can navigate the NDEB process or take the university route by applying to a bridging program.

Let’s explore each route in further detail.

 

Pursuing a Dental Degree:

Admission and application requirements for dental school vary from one institution to another. It is important to contact the respective dental school admissions office to determine the specific admission requirements needed. As part of the admissions process, most Canadian dental schools require applicants to provide Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) scores administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).

Luckily, Canada is home to a variety of prestigious dental schools across the country that prospective students can choose from. These include:

University of Alberta (School of Dentistry)

University of British Columbia (Faculty of Dentistry)

University of Manitoba (Faculty of Dentistry)

Dalhousie University (Faculty of Dentistry)

University of Toronto (Faculty of Dentistry)

The University of Western Ontario (School of Dentistry)

McGill University (Faculty of Dentistry)

Université de Montréal (Faculté de médecine dentaire)

Université Laval (Faculté de médecine dentaire)

University of Saskatchewan (College of Dentistry)

On average, the cost of obtaining a four-year undergraduate dental degree can vary from $50,000 to $200,000 CAD for domestic students and up to $360,000 CAD for international students. Tuition fees typically include both academic, non-academic, and dental instrument fees. However, tuition fees vary for universities, so it is best to do your research before filling out an application.

It’s important to note that registration for the DAT is not an application to dental schools but a step towards getting your foot in the door. Don’t be afraid to schedule a call with an advisor and find out what they’re looking for in successful candidates, such as extracurriculars.

 

The National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB):

To begin the process with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB), you must apply to be accepted into the Canadian Dentistry Equivalency Process. As long as you have a recognized degree, you should be accepted. Due to COVID-19, response times may vary on acceptances as there may be delays to the application process.

Once accepted, the first exam you will need to complete is the AFK (Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge). After you pass this exam, you have two options: you may continue the equivalency process and then take Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ) followed by Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS), or you may apply to a Canadian university and fulfill a two-year bridging program (more on this option below). 

Currently, candidates are allowed three attempts each to pass the AFK and ACJ examinations. Beginning in 2022, however, examinees may attempt the ACS an unlimited number of times within a five-year period. 

If you are successful in the equivalency process, you will then need to take the board exams (OSCE & Written) to get your licence to start practicing in Canada. These exams are a requirement to practice dentistry in Canada for all accredited candidates and Canadian university dental graduates. 

The NDEB equivalency process costs approximately $50,000 CAD, including course and exam fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass. Here is a typical breakdown of the costs to expect when navigating the Canadian NDEB equivalency process:

The NDEB fee breakdown from Prep Doctors

*All prices are in Canadian dollars and reflect the fees as of April 2021. For the latest updates on NDEB exam fees, please visit the NDEB’s website.

In addition to exam fees, you will need to purchase materials (i.e. kits and reusable teeth) to practice dental procedures and techniques. It is also your responsibility to be fully equipped with all the required materials for the actual exam. 

At Prep Doctors, we provide specialized dental equivalency courses to help students prepare for each exam administered by the NDEB. Our classes consist of various materials and components, such as comprehensive mock exams, detailed textbooks, and extensive lectures. Find out more about our courses, including registration dates, below:

AFK Training Course

ACJ Training Course

ACS Training Course

OSCE & Written Training Course

 

Bridging Programs:

As we mentioned above, following the completion of the NDEB’s AFK exam, you have the option to enroll in a specialized bridging program offered by Canadian universities. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between international and Canadian dental training.

Bridging programs are held over five to six months, and after successful completion of the program, students can enroll directly into the third year of a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery Program (DDS). Overall, a DDS degree program can take 2 to 2.5 years to complete.

If you’re looking to take a bridging course, there are some general qualifications that most Canadian universities require:

  • You must have completed a minimum four-year University dental program not recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
  • You must have a relatively strong GPA (each university has its own GPA standard).
  • Be a Canadian citizen or have permanent residency status in Canada.
  • Provide proof of your English abilities. Students whose first language is not English may be required to write the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and the Test of Written English (TWE), or equivalent.
  • Complete the NDEB’s AFK exam with a high score (preferably 90% or more will greatly improve your chances of acceptance).

If you meet all the requirements for your chosen institution’s program, you will be contacted for an interview or to participate in a bench test.

It is important to note that not every university offers a bridging program. It is best to contact the institution of your choice to confirm its specified entry requirements.

The bridging program process can cost up to $90,000 CAD, but this price may vary depending on tuition fees as well as each institution’s non-refundable application fee. 

At Prep Doctors, we also provide courses that help prepare trainees for Canadian universities’ admission bench tests and interviews. Our courses offer trainees case-based training and practical scenarios designed to guide them through the interview processes at institutions including the University of Toronto and Western University, to name a few.

 

Remember:

Regardless of whichever route you choose, becoming a dentist in Canada is a huge commitment, both financially and in the amount of time needed (find out about financing options here). Always feel free to reach out to the school or institution of your choice to learn more information and weigh your options. 

To help give you the best information to make an informed decision, Prep Doctors offers scheduled tours of our campus and facilities, as well as demo classes and financial counselling. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the dental equivalency journey. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

Looking Back on 10 Fantastic Years

In March, Prep Doctors celebrated its 10th anniversary! To mark this momentous milestone, our Chief Executive Officer, Firas Abu Saleh, is looking back on the past decade, his experiences, and what’s next for Prep Doctors.

 

This year, we celebrate Prep Doctors’ 10th Anniversary. What thoughts and emotions come to mind when you think about this milestone?

I can’t help but reflect on the early days and how something small that started from a humble beginning turned into Canada’s largest private dental training institute. It reminds me never to discount any idea that anyone has, and it’s a testimony to what immigrants can achieve in this country. As I look back and think about the different stages of growth and the challenges that we faced along the way, it allows me to always stay positive and hopeful of the future, especially during these difficult times. It feels great to go from discussing “exit plans” in the early years to aiming high and planning to take this organization to the next level.

 

Where did you draw inspiration from to start to build this unique business?

When my parents moved to Canada, they sacrificed their careers and lifestyles, looking for better education and opportunities for their children. Canada was the land of opportunity for us. The biggest inspiration for us as founders of Prep Doctors has been our parents.

 

What were your visions in 2011 for the company? How have you met or even surpassed those visions?

We started Prep Doctors in 2011 as a part-time business, and we took things one step at a time. The plan was that we wanted to run this on the side while we kept our full-time jobs. It grew beyond our expectations.

 

A Prep Doctors NDEB AFK Course in the growing years
A look back on an NDEB preparation course for the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK). Learn more at prepdoctors.ca. Register for our AFK course here

 

What is your favourite part about your job? What excites you most?

What is most exciting about my role at Prep Doctors is the ability to make an impact and introduce improvements every single day.

 

Looking back, what are some of the most significant changes that you’ve seen in the industry over the years?

The first change was the introduction of the direct route exams in 2011. This was the same year that we entered the market. The next was the introduction of two exam cycles per year. Finally, all the changes and cancellations in 2020 which has been a challenging year for many.

 

There have been some vital players that have worked alongside you early on. In what ways have their contributions added to the growth and success of the company?

Having key people that you trust around you is critical, especially in the early stages. Being able to focus on your part while knowing that your back is covered by your partners is key to success, in my opinion. In many ways, it wouldn’t be possible to grow this company and get it to where it is today if it weren’t for the contributions of all the founders and everyone who added to our journey along the way.

 

What do you feel have been some of the company’s biggest accomplishments since your start in 2010? 

I think that one of our greatest accomplishments is leading the way. It makes us proud to see the mark that our innovations (terminology, teaching methodologies, technology, and designs) leave on the industry over the years. Another accomplishment is being able to deliver our various courses across the country while maintaining the same level of quality.

What is your biggest hope for the next decade with Prep Doctors? In what ways do you want to grow?

Our plan for Prep Doctors is to become the number one leader in dental training and exam prep in North America. We would like to continue to add meaningful topics to our courses and services that deliver great value to the dental profession.

Describe what Prep Doctors means to you on a personal level.

To me, Prep Doctors is about proving that everything is possible and that you should pursue your dreams. Whether it’s about getting licensed, jumpstarting your career or starting your business, Prep Doctors is proof that as an immigrant, you can make it happen.

 

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors, our 10th anniversary, and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Careers in Dentistry Series: When to Volunteer

Let’s face it — with the numerous demands dentists face in their profession, it isn’t always easy to find the time to volunteer in dental community outreach. But as our latest guest on our Careers in Dentistry Series suggests, volunteerism will present opportunities at any stage in your life. It’s all about the donation of time, talent, and treasure.

In our third installment, Dr. Waschuk chats with Dr. Pennie Thornton, a practising general dentist in London, Ont. and a lifelong volunteer. Dr. Thornton has been involved as a clinical instructor with the Dental Outreach Community Service program at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry since its inception and is now a board member of the London Community Dental Alliance, which has established a not-for-profit clinic in the city. She has won awards for her volunteerism, most recently the 2019 Community Service Award from the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry. Watch the full interview below or on our YouTube page here.

 

 

What’s Dr. Thorton’s advice for young dentists looking to volunteer? In the beginning, cut yourself a break. Don’t expect to do everything at once. Volunteerism will always be there. You need a healthy family, and then you need a healthy practice. All sorts of possibilities will follow. 

About the Series

Our Prep Doctors Careers in Dentistry series is an opportunity for you to peek behind the curtain of various avenues of dentistry you can take from a career and business perspective. Hosted by Dr. Waschuk, we sit down with highly regarded dentists to discuss their career paths, the challenges and benefits of the field, and how you can get started on your dentistry journey.

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Fuelling a Dream: A Journey of 7,000 Miles

For me, the journey of seven thousand miles begins with a single step and a dream.

I had a dream of opportunity. One that convinced a 25-year-old young woman to pack her belongings into a suitcase and move by herself across oceans to a country that welcomes every individual with open arms, Canada.

The road ahead seemed vague. Unfortunately, Google Maps couldn’t help me navigate my route, despite advertising themselves as a “world atlas,” so much for technology, huh?

Still, my dream kept me up at night. It made me want to run, climb rocks, swim through filthy ponds, and keep moving forward, even if that meant going down on my hands and knees through trenches.

My dream needed to be fuelled. It kept growing, slowly carving itself into everything I did. I was happy living my life back in India. In 2017, I was a licensed, practising dentist in a city called Hyderabad after completing my BDS. I had an established loyal client base and single-handedly opened three dental clinics for my senior associate in highly reputable hospitals across the city. I had everything I needed, but it felt like something was missing.

 

Indian dentist Dr. Pallack Razdan operating on a patient in dentistry clinic BDS DDS

 

I kept dreaming of a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in Canada. One of the routes to get there was through the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB). The NDEB equivalency process is a fierce competition amongst dentists from across the world. Needless to say, it requires a vision, a thorough plan, and most importantly, willpower to succeed.

So I moved to Toronto and began studying for the intense exam processes I was about to embark on while simultaneously job hunting to sustain my expenses. Did I mention my dream was an expensive affair?

The search for a transitional job made me run in circles. I worked at many different places before I set foot in the Canadian dental industry as an Indian dentist. I have only recently managed to settle into a position with EDMS Dental that helps me stay relevant, motivated, and inspired. I was blessed to have connected with some great individuals in the field along the way. However, I’ve also had my share of criticism of being told I wasn’t good enough, that I’ll never make it, and worse of all, that Canada didn’t need another foreign-trained dentist.

And yet, I still dream of holding my DDS degree in my hands, owning a clinic of my own, and doing some challenging but amazing dental work all to experience the feeling of creating smiles and the satisfaction of treating my patients well.

This is my journey, and while my dream is a mighty jump away due to COVID-19 and the impact it has had on the dental equivalency process, I haven’t lost focus or my passion for dentistry.

I’m here, just like you, on a quest to gain my license, and we will do it. As Henry Ford once said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” 

So, if not today, tomorrow! And if not tomorrow, then the day after that. Nevertheless, one day, we’ll do big things soon. Call it a dream.

 

Dr. Pallak Razdan is a dentist and the Social Media Director at EDMS Dental. She is a contributing Prep Doctors’ writer focusing on her journey to Canada, the NDEB equivalency process, and a broad scope of Canadian dentistry.

Careers in Dentistry Series: Finding the Right Fit

Just like a dentist takes care of your whole mouth and not just an aspect of it, a career in dentistry encompasses a wealth of opportunities, rewards, and challenges across the globe. Offering various pathways for transforming smiles, community impact, education and skills development, dentistry is a profession that allows countless possibilities.

That’s why we at Prep Doctors created the new Careers in Dentistry Series for you to peek behind the curtain of various avenues of dentistry you can take from a career and business perspective. Hosted by our Compliance and Education Specialist, Dr. Lesia Waschuk, we sit down with highly regarded dentists to discuss their career journeys, the challenges and benefits of the field, and how you can get started in your dentistry profession.

In our first installment of the series, Dr. Waschuk talks to Serban Sirca, a fourth-year dental student from the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto. He speaks in-depth about preparing for dental education, the choice of completing a general practice residency (GPR), and his decision to practise outside an urban centre. Watch the full interview below or on our YouTube page here.

 

 

As Dr. Sirca notes, dentists searching for the ideal fit in an office environment may consider “job shadowing” or working in a group practice. In his search for the right position, he recalls shadowing at a clinic where he was able to oversee a range of procedures, learning techniques and understand the day-to-day hustle and bustle of a dental office. By working in a group practice, Dr. Sirca consulted with other practitioners and learned his preferred area of focus. Most importantly, he realized he could find joy in the dentistry profession every day. 

Click here to learn more about Prep Doctors and the stories of our dentists. Have a question? Please reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Canada Training Credit – Are you Eligible?

Tax season is upon us. If you have taken a course with Prep Doctors in 2020, you may be eligible to receive up to CAD 250 through the Canada Training Credit (CTC).

CTC has been introduced by the Federal budget to help with the cost of training fees and can be claimed on your 2020 taxes. Here’s what you need to know.

What is the Canada Training Credit?

The Canada Training Credit is a refundable federal tax credit meant for Canadians and those with Permanent Residence (PR) who have invested in continuing education courses for professional development.

Are you eligible?

This credit is available for a certain amount of tuition paid for courses taken in 2020 at an eligible educational institution in respect of the year, making Prep Doctors courses eligible.

Remember, the CRA only gives benefits to citizens and residents who file their tax returns and your benefit eligibility will be based on the information you provide in your tax filings.

To learn more about the Canada Training Credit and how to apply, please visit the Government of Canada website.

Have any questions about Prep Doctors’ courses? Feel free to send us a message at feedback@prepdoctors.ca or on our Facebook page!

Entering the Dental Market: What to Expect

After months of research and development, Prep Doctors and Transitions Group have come together to create a comprehensive, hands-on course for dentists taking their first steps into the Canadian market. Entering the Dental Market (EDM) is an introductory course of our new Dental Practice Management program offered in two streams: new associate and new practice owner. EDM follows the new associate stream.

Our expert instructors will help newly registered (or soon-to-be registered) dentists identify their strengths and interests, draft a resume, find the right opportunities, and craft a bio to help that will help them create a name for themselves. Participants will also learn how to network in dentistry’s highly connections-influenced industry. They will also get key advice and tips to ace interviews and layout a 90-day plan for success as a dental associate. 

With more than 1,300 newly registered dentists entering the profession annually in Canada, combined with today’s unprecedented economic challenges, the market for dental associate positions has never been more competitive. With our partnership with Transitions Group on this course and the entire Dental Practice Management program, we are looking to create the complete guide to getting you hired at your dream job.

To learn more about Prep Doctors, our continuing education courses or to register to Entering the Dental Market (EDM), click here

AFK Exam Cancellation: Our Statement

As you may be aware, a few days ago, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) announced the cancellation of the upcoming Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam due to their ongoing investigation into reports of alleged cheating in respect of prior exams. This AFK exam was scheduled to take place on February 05-06, 2021. The cancellation comes after the NDEB announced that they launched an investigation on December 21 of last year.

Cheating on licensure exams provides an unfair advantage for those who cheat and more importantly compromises the integrity of the board exams. These exams are meant to safeguard the dentistry profession from unqualified individuals. As an educational institution, we take a firm stance against cheating. We do not support nor condone cheating, in any respect, for any and all professional licensing examinations.

There have been a number of exam cancellations in 2020 due to COVID and now in 2021 due to the NDEB’s investigation into alleged reports of cheating. These cancellations will have an impact on the number of Internationally trained dentists entering the market over the next couple of years unless measures can be taken to make up for those delays.

It is unfortunate that this situation has arisen. It is having a widespread negative impact on many who have studied hard for the AFK exam and have done nothing wrong.

We empathize with our hardworking trainees who put their lives on hold to pursue their dreams of becoming licensed dentists in Canada. We know that many were affected by the relatively short notice given due to the COVID situation. We have received reports that some of our trainees have already travelled to Canada because of the self-isolation requirements imposed due to COVID. We are sympathetic to those trainees who have had to travel to write the now cancelled AFK exam.

The NDEB’s withholding of the last exam’s results and the cancellation of the AFK exam will slow down but will not stop the journey of becoming a licensed dentist in Canada. We want our trainees to know that we are here to continue to support them through their journey. We have already connected with our dentists who have been affected by this cancellation and will be scheduling another session in the near future.

Firas Abu Saleh is the CEO and co-founder of Prep Doctors.

 

How to Finance Canadian Dental Equivalency in 2021

For our first Live session of 2021, our Prep Doctors Marketing Lead, Uthman Quick, got a chance to sit down with our in-house financial expert Ahmed Youssef, CIBC Business Development Manager Simon Belz and Sidney Coles Manager for Key Partnerships at Windmill Microlending to focus on the financing options available in 2021.

The panel shares some advice on managing credit in Canada and delves deeper into loan options available in 2021.

View the full discussion below:

We have listed some of the resources that we discussed during the session along with the contact details and website links. Please note that as our finance expert Ahmed Yossef said, the availability and approval of loans will vary for each candidate.

Financing Options – There are 3 main types of loans

1) FCR Loans Programs

Foreign Credential Recognition or FDR loan programs are funded by the government. The interest rate on these loans varies but it is usually around prime + 1% to 2%. FCR loans provide a line of credit of up to $15,000 and are paid back like normal loans. In the list below, you will find some FCR Loans programs and consultants we have worked with within the past. If you are not eligible for the programs listed below, we recommend visiting immigration information centres in your area and inquiring about local foreign loan credential programs.

Basic requirements to qualify:

NDEB registration approval
PR / Approved Refugee / Canadian Citizenship
Study Plan
List of FCR Loans Programs:

Our recommended programs:

Achēv
Contact: Ruwaida Al-Kubaisi (Career & Training Counsellor)
Foreign Credential Recognition Loans Program
50 Burnhamthorpe Rd W #300, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C2
Email: ral-kubaisi@tcet.com
Phone: (647) 394- 5978

Access Community Capital Fund
401 Richmond St. W, Suite 375, Toronto, ON, M5V 3A8
Email: info@accessccf.com
Phone: (416) 462-0496

Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS)
Surrey Head Office: #205 12725 80th Avenue, Surrey, BC, V3W 3A6
Phone: (604) 596-7722

Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia
2610 Victoria Dr. Vancouver, BC V5N 4L2
info@issbc.org
(604) 684-2561

Welland Heritage Council and Multicultural Center
26 East Main St. Welland, ON L3B 3W3
Toll-Free: 1-888-764-9041
info@wellandheritagecouncil.com

The Learning Enrichment Foundation
116 Industry Street M6M 4L8, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
(416) 769-0830

 

2) Govt Approved Private Lending Organizations

These loan programs are administered by private organizations and are partially funded by the government. The loans are up to $15,000 and the interest rate is usually prime + 1% to +2%. These loans are recommended for candidates who want to build credit and eligibility for future loans. Windmill Microlending (listed below) is also now partnering with CIBC and is the gateway into a loan once you complete the AFK exam.

Basic requirements to qualify:
NDEB registrations approval
PR / Approved Refugee / Canadian Citizenship
Study plan

Our recommended program:

Windmill Microlending
Contact: Sidney Coles, Manager, Key Partnerships
info@teamwindmill.org
(416) 360-4445 ext. 403

 

3) Private Banks – CIBC’s ITD Banking Bundle

This loan provides a line of credit of up to $100,000 in intervals and bundles it with some attractive offers. As mentioned above CIBC is now in partnership with Windmill Microlending, meaning that if you haven’t cleared the AFK exam you would need to start with Windmill. After completing AFK you will be able to apply for this much larger loan that will help you complete the process.

Basic requirements to qualify:
NDEB registration approval
Permanent Residency / Canadian Citizenship
650 or above credit score
Study plan

Sign up for our financing newsletter to get a list of CIBC’s national advisors.

Dental Regulation Series: The RCDSO

The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) is one of the oldest health regulatory colleges in the province and sets standards for the practice of dentistry in Ontario. 

The RCDSO’s council elections have recently concluded, so what does this mean for dentistry moving forward within Ontario? 

Our marketing lead, Uthman Quick, called on our new compliance and education specialist, Dr. Lesia Waschuk, to help answer your questions about the RCDSO and what these past elections mean for dentists in Canada’s most populated province.

Watch the full conversation below:

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out to us at any time on our Facebook page!

The NDEB Process vs. Bridging Programs: What’s the Difference?

As an internationally-trained dentist, there are two routes available when looking to become a licensed dentist in Canada. You have the option to apply to the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) equivalency process or opt to enroll in an academic bridging program that’s offered at Canadian universities. 

Although each option has its benefits and challenges, it is important to understand what each option offers. So, what is the difference between the NDEB process and bridging programs?

 

Option 1: The NDEB Process:  

The most popular method for internationally-trained dentists is taking the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) exams. The NDEB is a governing body that creates and administers assessments that identify the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in Canada’s dental job field. When opting to take this route you will have to appear for and clear 3 exams:

Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)

Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ)

Assessment of Clinical Studies (ACS) 

Once you have cleared these exams, the next step is to go through the NDEB’s certification process where you will need to clear two final exams:

OSCE 

Written

Before taking the exams, you will have to apply for the NDEB Equivalency Process by creating an online profile through the NDEB’s Online Portal.

Once you have created your profile, you will need to submit the following documents to be approved by the NDEB:

– Government-Issued Photo Identification

– Proof of Name Change/Difference in name if applicable

– Translation of Proof of name change/difference in name, if applicable

– Final Dental Diploma/Degree

– Translation of Academic Records, if applicable

– Internship Completion Certificate, if applicable

 

You will need to arrange to have a Confirmation of Degree completion form and your academic records sent to the NDEB by your university.

For those who are looking for a quicker route in obtaining dental equivalency, the NDEB process is the ideal option.

The shortest time in which this process can be completed is 1.5 years, provided you clear the exams on the first try. The NDEB allows you 3 attempts each exam to get a passing score. It is important to note that you must score at least 75% on each exam in order to advance to the next exam. 

Although you can prepare for the exams on your own, Prep Doctors helps with preparing trainees for the exams. Prep Doctors can help with that as well as provide you with the confidence and knowledge that will help you adapt to the landscape of Canadian dentistry. 

For more information on our NDEB equivalency courses, click here

 

Option 2: Academic Bridging Program

In Canada, there are specialized bridging programs offered by universities that focus on bridging the gap between international training and Canadian training. After successful completion of this program, students are able to transition into the third year of a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery Program (DDS). These programs can be anywhere from 2-3 years in duration. 

So how does one get into a bridging program? Well, similar to the NDEB route, you will need to complete the NDEB’s AFK exam. However, there are some distinct differences in the qualifications that are required of a trainee.

Trainees looking to take the bridging program route must have the following:

 

– Canadian citizen or permanent resident

– Graduated from a four-year university program (not recognized in Canada) 

– Relatively strong GPA (Every university has its own grading scale)

– Must have cleared an English proficiency test

– Appeared for the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam (85% or higher)

 

Bridging programs are offered by Canadian universities by various names but generally have the same qualifications and program aspects. These programs include:  

– University of British Columbia – International Dental Degree Completion Program

– University of Toronto – International Dentist Advanced Placement Program (IDAPP)

– University of Manitoba – International Dentist Degree Program

– University of Western Ontario – Internationally Trained Dentists (ITD) Program

 

Canadian universities are incredibly competitive when it comes to this route due to the limited amount of dental programs in Canada, especially compared to other job fields. So when applying for a bridging program, besides having a relatively high score on the AFK exam, you must also write an essay and have a resume of extracurriculars that show you’re a well-rounded candidate. 

A common question is, “what kind of extracurriculars do universities typically look for?”. Well, extracurriculars can include a wide range of activities including volunteering, sports and community service. It is also extremely beneficial to have some dental shadowing and clinical hours under your belt as well. 

If your application meets these requirements, the university will invite you to an interview or conduct a bench test. 

At Prep Doctors, we have courses that help to prepare for various universities’ interview processes. Check out our courses below:

University of Toronto | Admissions Course

Universities Admissions Course | Western, Manitoba, Alberta

 

Pricing

When researching your options, it is no doubt that pricing plays a big part in helping to determine what your final decision will ultimately be. Taking the NDEB route can cost upwards of CAD 50,000 depending on how many attempts as well as exam fees. Tuition fees for bridging programs can vary, depending on the university. It is important to note that there is a non-refundable application fee when applying for any bridging program. For a full breakdown of prices, check out our blog: How to Become a Dentist in Canada.

 

So, which one should you choose?

Figuring out which route is best for you depends on what will work best for your situation. If you’re looking to complete your equivalency in a shorter amount of time or the cheapest overall route, the NDEB route is your best option. However, if you do achieve a high score on the AFK exam, although the more expensive route, applying for the university route is an option to consider. 

If you ever have any questions or you’re just looking for a bit of clarification, Prep Doctors is always here to help. Whether on our Facebook page, through email at feedback@prepdoctors.ca or by phone (+1 855-397-7737), we’re more than happy to help craft the best path for you!

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