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Applicants: Dentists

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First Application for a Dental Licence in Canada - General Dentist

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First Application for a Dental Licence in Canada - Dental Specialist

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First Application for a Dental Licence in Canada - Graduate Student

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Already Licensed in Another Province - General Dentist

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Already Licensed in Another Province - Dental Specialist

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Already Licensed in Another Province - Graduate Student

Timelines for Processing Applications

Applicants Currently Licensed in Canada

We are complaint with the Patient Access to Care Act (PACA). For applicants currently licensed in another Canadian province or territory, we will process your application within 5 business days following the receipt of a COMPLETE APPLICATION.

A complete application means that you have submitted all required documents and we have had the opportunity to gather any follow-up information necessary following review of your documents.

Such documents include:

    • criminal record check,
    • vulnerable sector check,
    • reference letters, and
    • certificates of standing from all jurisdictions where you were previously licensed as a health professional.

Applicants Not Currently Licensed in Canada

For all other applicants (not currently licensed elsewhere in Canada) we strive to meet the same 5-day timeline following the receipt of a COMPLETE APPLICATION. However, this timeframe may be extended slightly:

    • during staff vacation periods such as in December, and
    • during the height of new applications following graduation in May and June.

We appreciate your patience during these periods.

Help with Documents

If you need help or clarification on the documentation required, our staff will assist you.

Policies on Requirements for Registration and Licensing of Dentists

In May of 2025 when the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia migrated under the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), the Board adopted these policies which reflect the Regulations and Policies in place under the repealed 1992 Dental Act.

Click here to read the policies

About

The Nova Scotia Regulator of Dentistry and Dental Assisting (NSRDDA) is the legislated body whose role it is to protect the public interest in matters related to dental care. We do this by:

  • ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed as dentist and dental assistants,
  • establishing standards of practice, and
  • dealing with complaints related to standards of care, professionalism, and ethics.”

Learn More

Latest Release

Board Meeting Mins. – May 30, 2025

Board Meeting Mins. – May 30, 2025

Sep 29, 2025 | Board Meeting Minutes

Contact

210 Waterfront Drive, Suite 103
Bedford, NS  B4A 0H3  Canada

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Toll Free: 1-866-326-1046
Phone: (902) 420-0083
Fax: (902) 492-0301

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