Top Dental Schools in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL)
If you’re passionate about oral health and looking to pursue a rewarding career in dentistry or dental care, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) offers solid academic and professional training options to help you get started. While NL does not currently have a full Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program, it does offer strong programs in dental assisting, dental hygiene, and oral health sciences—ideal stepping stones to a dental career or meaningful professions in the field.
This guide outlines the top institutions in NL offering dental and oral health education, along with links to their official websites and financial aid resources. Whether you’re seeking practical training or preparing for advanced study, these schools will help launch your journey into dentistry.
Top Dental Schools in Newfoundland
College of the North Atlantic (CNA) – Dental Assisting Program
Location: Prince Philip Drive Campus, St. John’s, NL
College of the North Atlantic offers an accredited Dental Assisting (Level II) diploma program designed to prepare students for work in general and specialty dental practices. The program covers chairside assisting, radiography, infection control, and community dental health, and includes hands-on clinical experience.
Graduates are eligible to write the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) examination and become licensed professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada.
Program Highlights:
- 2-year diploma
- On-campus lab and clinic training
- Clinical placements with practicing dental professionals
- Visit CNA’s Dental Assisting Program
- CNA Scholarships and Financial Aid
Memorial University – Faculty of Medicine: Oral Health Research
Location: St. John’s, NL
While Memorial University does not currently offer a DDS program, its Faculty of Medicine supports oral health research and integrates oral health education into public health and community wellness initiatives. Students pursuing public health or clinical epidemiology may focus research projects on oral health, dental hygiene, or community-based oral health interventions.
Graduate-level programs in public health or epidemiology may be ideal for students planning to pursue future studies in dentistry or wanting to work in oral health research and education.
Relevant Programs:
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- MSc and PhD in Clinical Epidemiology
- Community Health and Wellness Initiatives
- Visit Memorial University – Faculty of Medicine
- Graduate Scholarships and Financial Aid
Eastern Health – Centre for Nursing Studies and Dental Health Education
Location: St. John’s, NL
While not a standalone school for dentistry, Eastern Health supports dental public health initiatives and community oral health education programs. Through its partnership with educational institutions, Eastern Health often hosts clinical placements for dental assisting and hygiene students and offers continuing education in oral health promotion.
Those interested in public dental health education, hygiene advocacy, or preventive care can find meaningful career pathways through these initiatives, especially if combined with CNA’s dental assisting program or a future dental hygiene certification.
Preparing for DDS or Dental Hygiene Programs Out-of-Province
Because Newfoundland and Labrador does not currently offer a full DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or Bachelor of Dental Hygiene program, many students choose to complete pre-dental studies or gain certification in dental assisting in NL before applying to professional dental schools elsewhere in Canada.
Some popular options outside NL include:
- Dalhousie University Faculty of Dentistry (Nova Scotia)
- University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry (Ontario)
- University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry (BC)
Memorial University and CNA provide strong academic foundations, practical training, and support for students preparing for entry into these programs.
To prepare:
- Take pre-dental courses (biology, chemistry, anatomy)
- Complete CNA’s Dental Assisting Program
- Gain relevant healthcare experience or volunteer hours
- Consider a BSc or MPH from Memorial for a competitive academic edge
Launching a Dental Career in Newfoundland and Labrador
While NL does not have a full-fledged dental school offering DDS degrees, it provides strong and accessible pathways for students to enter the field of dental health. From hands-on training in dental assisting to research-focused public health programs, students in the province are well-positioned to build foundational skills and launch into professional dental programs across Canada.
In the meantime, the demand for dental assistants, oral health educators, and community dental health advocates remains strong across NL. These roles not only offer meaningful work but also provide a stepping stone toward higher qualifications in dentistry and oral care.
Ready to Take the First Step?
- Explore the Dental Assisting Program at CNA
- Learn about oral health research and public health at Memorial University
- Review scholarships and student financial aid at CNA and Memorial University
Start locally, aim high, and take your passion for dental care to the next level—whether it’s working in a busy dental clinic in St. John’s or becoming a fully licensed dentist in the years ahead. Your journey starts here in Newfoundland and Labrador.
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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:
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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!
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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.
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Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
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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!
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