Top Dental Schools and Dental Programs in New Brunswick (NB)
Your Guide to Becoming a Dentist, Dental Hygienist, or Dental Assistant in NB
If you’re passionate about oral health and envision a future in dentistry, New Brunswick (NB) offers excellent educational opportunities for students pursuing careers as dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. While NB does not currently have a full Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS/DMD) program, the province provides strong pre-dental pathways, dental hygiene and assisting programs, and partnerships with leading dental schools in other provinces.
This guide explores the top dental education options in NB, with detailed program summaries, direct links to school websites, and access to financial aid and scholarships to help you take your first step into the field of dentistry.
Top Dental Schools and Dental Programs in New Brunswick
University of New Brunswick (UNB) – Pre-Dental Pathway
Website: UNB Pre-Health Programs
Scholarships: UNB Scholarships & Financial Aid
UNB offers a well-respected pre-dental science track through its Bachelor of Science programs in Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, designed to prepare students for dental school admission in Canada and abroad. Key highlights:
- Advising tailored for dentistry, including help with academic planning and dental school applications
- Opportunities to participate in undergraduate research projects
- Solid preparation for the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT)
- Frequent student placements in Canadian dental schools such as Dalhousie University and Université de Montréal
UNB is an ideal choice for students aiming to build a strong academic foundation before applying to a DDS program.
Université de Moncton – Pre-Dental Science Programs (French)
Website: Université de Moncton – Sciences
Scholarships: Université de Moncton Financial Aid
Université de Moncton offers French-language pre-dental education through undergraduate programs in biology, chemistry, and health sciences. These degrees are tailored for students planning to apply to French-language dental schools in Canada or internationally.
- French instruction supports applications to Université Laval or Université de Montréal dental faculties
- Strong focus on laboratory skills and academic research
- Personalized guidance for preparing for the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT)
- A supportive community for Francophone students pursuing careers in healthcare
This is an excellent option for French-speaking students looking to pursue dental studies in Canada’s Francophone institutions.
Oulton College – Dental Hygiene & Dental Assisting
Website: Oulton College – Dental Programs
Scholarships: Oulton College Financial Aid
Located in Moncton, Oulton College offers both Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting diploma programs that are accredited and designed for quick entry into the dental field.
Dental Hygiene Program:
- 2-year accredited program
- Prepares students for licensing exams and work in dental clinics, public health, or education
- Includes hands-on experience through clinical placements
Dental Assisting Program:
- 10-month program
- Focus on chairside procedures, radiography, sterilization, and patient care
- Graduates are eligible to write the National Dental Assisting Examination Board (NDAEB) exam
Oulton is known for its industry connections, modern facilities, and commitment to career-ready education.
NBCC (New Brunswick Community College) – Dental Assisting
Website: NBCC Dental Assisting Program
Scholarships: NBCC Scholarships & Bursaries
NBCC offers a high-quality Dental Assisting program at its Saint John campus. This program provides hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge to prepare students for immediate entry into dental practices.
- One-year certificate program
- Nationally accredited and recognized by the NDAEB
- In-depth training in radiography, infection prevention, chairside assisting, and office procedures
- Excellent job placement rates across NB
This is an excellent option for students looking to start a career in the dental field quickly and affordably.
CCNB – Health and Dental-Related Training (French)
Website: CCNB Health Programs
Scholarships: CCNB Financial Aid
While CCNB does not offer a standalone dental hygiene or DDS program, it supports related training in the health and medical services field, especially for Francophone students. Students interested in dental careers can begin with science or healthcare foundations before transferring to more specialized programs in NB or Quebec.
- French-language education
- Pathways to health and support roles
- Prepares students for further study in dental assisting or pre-dental science
Dalhousie Faculty of Dentistry – Accessible from NB
Website: Dalhousie Dentistry
Financial Aid: Dalhousie Dentistry Financial Support
While not physically located in NB, Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is the closest Canadian institution offering a full Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program. Many students from NB attend Dalhousie’s dental school, which offers:
- Accredited 4-year DDS program
- Advanced dental technology labs and simulation centres
- Strong research opportunities and clinic-based learning
- NB student residency preference for some seats
Students pursuing a pre-dental degree in NB often transfer or apply to Dalhousie to complete their formal dental training.
Why Study Dentistry in New Brunswick?
- Cost-Effective Start: Begin your journey in NB with affordable, accredited pre-dental or dental assisting programs
- Supportive Communities: Smaller class sizes, personalized support, and bilingual education options
- Seamless Pathways: NB’s pre-dental programs align with top dental schools in other provinces
- Career Opportunities: Graduates are in high demand across Canada in both public and private dental practices
Start Your Dental Career in NB
New Brunswick may not have a full DDS program within the province, but it offers valuable academic and career-launching opportunities for students pursuing dental careers. Whether you start with a science degree at UNB, train as a dental hygienist or assistant at Oulton or NBCC, or plan to transition to a top-tier dental school like Dalhousie, NB has the tools to help you succeed.
With dedicated faculty, practical training, and growing healthcare needs, the province is a smart place to begin your dental career journey.
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Graduating?
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How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities.
Connect with local recruiters and headhunters to explore current job opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in Canada.