Author: Karen Nunez

4 Best Intraoral Scanners in 2023

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date September 24, 2023

Are you tired of the goop, gag, and all the fuss with dental impressions? Yeah, me too. So, let me cut to the chase: if you're searching for the best intraoral scanner in 2023, you've hit the bull's eye. This article is for you!

Using intraoral scanners has transformed our practice in ways I hadn't imagined. Not only are these devices incredibly user-friendly, but they also offer a cleanliness and efficiency that traditional methods can't match.

My patients frequently express their appreciation when they see their current dental status and even preview how their teeth could look after treatment, such as post-orthodontic work. Talk about a glimpse into the future!

So, buckle up as we dive deep into this intraoral scanner comparison. Trust me, by the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to select the best intraoral scanner of 2023 for your specific needs. Let's get started.

What are the Best Intraoral Scanners?

When shopping for the best intraoral scanners, it's essential to consider a range of factors—from speed and scanning efficiency to intelligent data and color capabilities, ease of use, results outcome, and even those pesky hidden costs.

We've compiled a list of the best intraoral scanners for 2023 to help elevate your dental practice. Keep reading to find the scanner that's just right for you and your patients.

Here are my top picks for the best intraoral scanner this year.

Medit i600T
Medit i700
iTero Element 5D Plus
Viz

Medit i600T

The Medit i600 is more than another gadget in your scan dental practice toolkit.

Crafted from two decades of engineering brilliance and cutting-edge scan technology, this gadget is a game-changer for any dental practice. Whether you're just dipping your toes into the digital dentistry pool or a seasoned pro, this scanner is a dream come true.

Imagine high-speed, pinpoint-accurate scans coupled with user-friendly features that make your life—dare I say it—more manageable. You won't want to miss out on adding this to your dental practice.

Key Benefits

High Scanning Speed: With the ability to complete full-arch scans in just 35-40 seconds, it's fast enough to rival top-of-the-line models like TRIOS, CEREC, and iTero.
User-Friendly: If you're familiar with any of the scanners on the market, you'll find the i600's protocol intuitive and straightforward.
High-Definition Color Scans: Post-processed images come out vibrant and detailed, so what you see is what you get.
Innovative AI Capabilities: The built-in software smartly weeds out unnecessary elements, ensuring your scans remain clutter-free.
Error Recovery: If you pause and then restart your scanning, the i600 picks up right where it left off with little fuss.
Versatility in Bite Scans: Though the software can occasionally misread a bite scan, it allows for quick corrections.

Pricing

Retail Price: The recommended retail price (RRP) for the Medit i600 is USD 13,500. This is competitive, making it one of the most wallet-friendly options.
Additional Hardware: This cost doesn't cover a laptop or computer to run the scanner. Budget an extra $2,000 to $3,000 for that.
Cart Not Included: The i600 doesn't come with a cart, so you must consider that when budgeting.
Ongoing Expenses: The scanner uses removable and autoclavable scanning heads for optimal hygiene. A box of 4 will cost you USD 300, which breaks down to $75 per scanning head. Since each head can be autoclaved up to 150 times, you're looking at about $0.50 per patient.

The pricing makes the Medit i600 a cost-effective choice, especially considering its high-quality scans and user-friendly interface. So, if you're budget-conscious but want to maintain quality, this scanner could be your match.

Karen's Take

I could complete full-arch scans in less time than it takes to whip up my kid's breakfast smoothie. Even better is how the scanner adjusts itself when I pause and continue—no more worries over lost work.
The AI capabilities are also impressive.
As a dental professional, the last thing you want is a scan cluttered with artifacts; the i600's software takes care of that efficiently. Granted, the bite scan alignment could be better, but no scanner is without its quirks. Just double-check, and you're good to go.
- So, would I recommend the Medit i600? Absolutely. Its ease of use and top-notch features make it a stellar investment for any dental practice.

Medit i700

Product Overview

The Medit i700 is the new kid on the block, released in April 2021 as the follow-up to the i500, which had already made quite a splash in the dental scanner industry.
"Reimaging scanning" is the catchphrase now; I can say it's entirely fitting. This digital dynamo of a scanner comes loaded with high-speed capabilities and a seamless user experience.
Medit, a Korean digital imaging company that started in 2000, has outdone itself with this latest iteration, offering a dental scanner that's top-of-the-line and cost-efficient for dentists aiming to fit crowns or execute other dental procedures.

Key Benefits

Speedy Scanning: With a software update, the i700 can complete full-arch scans in less than 40 seconds. That's lightning-fast!
Segmental Scanning: New software features mean you can scan in segments and stitch them together, making the scanning process easier for newbies and veterans alike.
Ergonomic Design: At 245 grams, this dental scanner is one of the lightest on the market. Your wrists will thank you!
User-friendly Software: The software package offers a wide array of tools and is free unless you opt for more than 1 GB of cloud storage.
Inbuilt Fan: Say goodbye to fogging! An internal fan keeps your scanning smooth for longer, although a 1-2 minute warm-up is recommended.
Versatile Scanning: Whether it's quadrant scans, full-arch scans, or edentulous and implant scans, the i700 is up for the challenge.
Open Architecture: Enjoy the freedom to export scans in multiple formats—STL, OBJ, and PLY—though note that STL files will be monochrome.
Cloud-Based Software: Medit Link software ensures your scans are readily available on any computer connected to the internet.
Portability: Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Cross-Infection Control: Removable and autoclavable scanning heads for better hygiene.
Affordable Pricing: Priced competitively, giving you great value for your money.

Added Points on Pricing and Software

Medit Link Software Features: It allows cloud storage and features an orthodontic simulator and a model base creator.
Acceptable Formats: Though the market is slowly adapting to different formats like PLY and OBJ, STL remains the most commonly accepted format for labs and design software.
Invisalign Compatibility: Currently, Medit scans, including those from the i700, are not accepted for Invisalign treatments.

Pricing

Initial cost: USD 13,500 (Excludes laptop/computer and cart)
Additional hardware: $2000-$3000 for a suitable laptop/computer.
Scanning Heads: $300 for a box of 4 ($75 per scanning head). Each head can be autoclaved up to 150 times, equating to roughly $0.50 per patient.

iTero Element 5D Plus: The Next Level of Intraoral Scanning

Product Overview

This next-generation intraoral scanner comes from Align, the same minds behind the iTero product line. What sets it apart? Faster processing times, a sleek new design, and the end of the laggy user experience that haunted its predecessor.

Whether you opt for the mobile tablet or the new, modern cart, this scanner is engineered to revolutionize your dental practice.

Key Benefits:

Exceptional Scanning Speed: One of the fastest intraoral scanners on the market. It's a rapid-fire asset in any dental practice.
Sleek, Modern Design: Whether you choose the cart or the tablet, you'll get a piece of hardware that complements the modern dental clinic.
User-Friendly Interface: A single-button operation and an easy-to-navigate touchscreen make for an intuitive user experience.
Flexibility and Portability: Choose a wheel-mounted cart or a mobile tablet version that fits your practice's needs.
High-Quality Imaging: Renders high-definition color images that closely resemble the real thing, enhancing patient engagement.
Medical-Grade Materials: Easy to clean and disinfect, which makes adhering to cross-infection protocols a breeze.
Modern Aesthetic: Whether you choose the cart or mobile version, you're in for a visually pleasing, modern design.
Internal Fan Technology: Maintains optimal temperature, preventing the device from overheating and ensuring uninterrupted operation.
Defogging Mechanism: Patented technology keeps the scanner window clear, so you never have to pause your workflow.

Karen's Take

As a dental practitioner, speed and accuracy are my top priorities. The Element 5D Plus truly offers our dental practice's best intraoral scan experience.
The faster processing times and improved user interface make it a breeze to work with. The internal fan and conductive window ensure no fogging issues during extended scanning sessions.
It's not just any scanner; it's a total game-changer. Picture an internal fan that maintains the temperature but avoids fogging. Yes, that's right—no mid-scan fogging to slow you down.
It's been a real game-changer when tackling those full-arch scans without interruptions.
And it just keeps getting better. This device isn't just quick; it's also intelligent. The integrated AI clears out your scans as you go, removing those pesky soft tissue artifacts. Navigating edentulous spaces used to drive me up the wall, but a quick adjustment in the settings and—voilà—problem solved.
- It works flawlessly with Exocad, so you're lucky if you love crafting in-house restorations. Whether you're a newbie to digital dentistry or a seasoned pro, this scanner is an essential tool in your kit. You can be confident that your future self and patients will thank you!

Viz Intraoral Scanner

If you're anything like me, you always search for tech that makes your life easier. Enter the Viz Intraoral Scanner. This isn't just another scanner; it's your reliable friend in capturing digital impressions.
Why? For starters, it's lightning-fast. Your patients get to spend less time in the chair, and we all know how much they'll appreciate that. Plus, the accuracy is just stellar. You can trust this lousy boy to deliver, whether it's a single unit, quads, or an entire arch.
Setup is a breeze—'Plug & Play' out of the box. And if you've got a variety of mouths to scan—and who doesn't?—the multi-tips are interchangeable. Plus, a heated mirror takes the fog factor out of the equation.

Key Benefits

Speed and Comfort: Accurate dental imaging is a must-have. This scanner ensures precise results, whether you're working on a single unit, quads, or an entire arch.
High Accuracy: This isn't just about getting an image; it's about getting a dental imaging result that's accurate down to the smallest detail. Trust me, this level of accuracy across single units, quads, and full arches is a game-changer.
Plug & Play: I remember the days when setting up dental equipment felt like rocket science. With Viz, it's as easy as plug and play. It even comes with a premium laptop with pre-installed software.
Customizable Design: You know as well as I do that every mouth is different. The replaceable multi-tips ensure that this scanner will accommodate everyone.
Anti-Fogging: Remember those awkward pauses when your mirror fogged up? Not with Viz. It promises clear, quick scans every time.
Lightweight and Compact: A lightweight scanner can be a lifesaver during a busy day. It's designed for quick and effective scanning without wearing you out.
Open STL Files: We all have our go-to dental labs. Viz allows you to work with yours by producing available STL files compatible with all operating systems.
User-Friendly Software: Intuitive software that's easy to navigate. Check. Free updates for two years? Double-check.
Half the Cost: Yes, you read that right. This scanner offers top-tier features at nearly half the cost of typical intraoral scanners. It's not just cost-effective; it's a steal.
Free Laptop: Because, let's face it, who doesn't love freebies? Especially when it's something as valuable as a laptop.
Training & Support: Nobody becomes a scanning expert overnight. The package includes free instruction, training, and technical support.

Karen'sTake:

What sets it apart? It's the cost-effectiveness—like getting a luxury car experience for the price of a sedan.

You get high-end scanning capabilities at nearly half the cost of typical intraoral scanners. And let me tell you, finding such a balance of price and quality is rare.

If you want to make an intelligent investment that provides excellent performance without costing a fortune, Viz is a perfect choice. Your wallet and your practice will thank you.

How Intraoral Scanners Work?

Think of the scanner as the ultimate selfie stick for your mouth. It's got a wand that's a bit larger than your electric toothbrush, and it captures high-res images of your teeth and gums from every angle. No more gagging on dental molds!

Here's my favorite part: the scanner's wand emits a safe light, be it laser or structured light, onto your dental arches. This data is fed into special software that stitches together what's known as a "point cloud."

The software converts this Through pretty sophisticated math into a precise 3D model of your teeth and gums. It's like CAD for your mouth, revolutionizing dental practices everywhere.

How do I choose an intraoral scanner?

Intelligent Data: Opt for a scanner with AI capabilities. This can declutter your data and make your scans as accurate as possible.
Scanning Efficiency: The scanner should allow you to capture multiple images from various angles and integrate them into a 3D model. It's like stitching together the perfect quilt.
Speed: The faster your scanner can work, the happier your patient will be. Trust me, nobody wants to spend extra time in the dental chair.
Color Capabilities: Go for one with full-color streaming data, which provides an exact model of a patient's dental arches. It's like HD for your teeth.
Integration Ease: Your scanner should play nice with other systems. This means easy data export in STL, PLY, DCM, and OBJ formats and seamless third-party integrations.
Treatment Outcome: Choose a scanner that lets you show patients what their dental future could look like. It's like a crystal ball but for teeth.

Benefits of Digital Dental Impressions

I was skeptical when I first tried using an intraoral dental scanner for digital impressions. But let me tell you, it's been nothing short of a game-changer for our dental practice. Here's why:

Accuracy Like Never Before Intraoral dental scanners capture incredibly accurate digital impressions. I can't stress enough how crucial this is, especially regarding complex restorative work or orthodontic planning.
Patient Comfort: Say goodbye to that gooey mess that often makes patients gag. With an intraoral dental scanner, the process is fast, clean, and far more comfortable for the patient. Trust me, your patients will thank you!
Time Efficiency: Digital impressions save so much time you wouldn't believe it. No need for messy molds to set; a quick scan, and you're good to go!
Ease of Storage and Transfer: Forget about those bulky stone models that occupy space. Your digital impressions can be stored electronically and are easily shareable with labs or specialists, simplifying the workflow immensely.
Intra-Oral Scanner Comparison: Now, there are quite a few options when it comes to intraoral dental scanners. I've tried my fair share, and let me assure you, some are more user-friendly, offer better image quality, or are more budget-friendly than others. Having choices allows you to pick one that fits your practice's unique needs.
Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Run: Initial investment aside, digital impressions eliminate the recurring costs of impression materials and shipping, making it a more economical choice over time.
Enhanced Patient Education: The 3D digital models created by the scanner can be a fantastic educational tool. I love showing these to my patients; it helps them understand their oral health status and the treatments they might need more clearly.
Increased Case Acceptance: More patients are saying 'yes' to treatment plans, and you know what that means? We're not just delivering better dental care; we're also seeing a notable uptick in income. Trust me, this technology allows you to serve more patients effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are intraoral scanners?

Intraoral scanners are advanced dental devices that capture precise digital impressions of a patient's mouth. They are an alternative to traditional dental impressions and provide more accurate and detailed scans.

Why are intraoral scanners important in dentistry?

Intraoral scanners play a crucial role in modern dentistry as they improve the accuracy and efficiency of dental procedures. They enable dentists to create digital models, design restorations, and plan treatments more effectively.

What makes the best intraoral scanner?

The best intraoral scanner is determined by several factors, including scanning speed, accuracy, ease of use, software capabilities, compatibility with CAD/CAM systems, and overall performance. Choosing a scanner tailored to your dental practice's needs is essential and offers the latest technological advancements.

What is the role of scanning speed in intraoral scanners?

Scanning speed is an essential factor to consider when choosing an intraoral scanner. A faster scanning speed allows for quicker and more efficient patient treatments, reducing chair time and improving overall productivity in the dental practice.

Can intraoral scanners scan soft tissue as well?

Specific intraoral scanners can capture detailed scans of soft tissue along with teeth and restorations. This feature is handy in orthodontic treatments and allows for comprehensive treatment planning.

How do I choose the best intraoral scanner for my dental practice?

When choosing the best intraoral scanner for your dental practice, consider factors such as scanning speed, accuracy, software compatibility, price, and support. It is advisable to consult with experts or seek recommendations from other dental professionals before deciding.

What is the significance of digital dentistry in intraoral scanning?

Digital dentistry has revolutionized intraoral scanning by providing dentists with advanced tools and technologies to improve patient care. With digital dentistry, dental professionals can design and fabricate restorations digitally, enhancing precision and efficiency in dental treatments.

Final Thoughts

We've compared various intraoral scanners, and the results are precise. These devices are revolutionary. From unparalleled accuracy to user-friendly interfaces, these intra-oral scanners elevate the quality of your dental practice and significantly boost your revenue.

With higher case acceptance rates and the ability to see more patients, investing in an intraoral scanner is the way to go.

Editorial Process

Rest assured, our reviews are crafted by seasoned dental professionals who have tested these products in real-world dentistry. Read our editorial process here. And a heads-up: some links in this article are affiliate links. If you decide to level up your practice with a purchase, it's a win-win; you get a vetted product, and we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only endorse products we genuinely believe in. This is not a dental practice management advice, just our professional opinion. Check out our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy."-

Karen Nunez

Karen is your go-to dental diva with over half a decade of hands-on experience in the dental industry. She's not just passionate—she's borderline obsessed with sharing her knowledge with dental healthcare professionals on the latest dental technology and best practices. Think of her as the Sherlock Holmes of dental topics, always searching for the following game-changing insight.

HOME Latest Post

13 Best Dental 3D Printers to Grow Your Practice

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date September 16, 2023

Have you ever found yourself lost in a maze of dental tools only to realize the best ones might be only a quick printing away? Instead of wasting time ordering from local suppliers, you get a much more personalized experience by leveraging dental 3D printers. These powerful machines are revolutionizing how everyone gets the quality dental model or appliance needed to craft nightguards, aligners, surgical guides and other much-needed dental prostheses – all customized to the unique patient’s oral cavity.

With the global 3D printer market expected to expand anywhere from 18-27% annually, the only problem is figuring out how to take advantage of these resin-filled machines in your dental lab. A big part of how to grow your dental practice is integrating modern tools like a 3D printer.

I’ve spent years around dental offices on both sides of the exam chair and have spent years focused on what tools and equipment make the best investment for your practice. Here is a fantastic list I’ve put together of the current best dental 3D printers known to save you time, money, and energy as you expand. Let’s jump in!

What Are the Best Dental 3D Printers?

To be clear, the dental 3D printer you want will be the one that works best in your practices. A dental lab focused on specific resins or working with a unique patient demographic may prefer one style over another. Like anything else in life, it is all about finding what works best for your unique needs.

Once you nail down which machine to invest in, the rest is just having fun doing a little shopping! The recent adoption of dental printers is low, so you are on the cutting edge by integrating one into your practice. When you think about it, having a modern dental 3D printer is a great step for how to attract new patients to your dental practice. Here are my top contenders.

#1 – Form 3B+ by Formlabs

I love the sheer joy of operating the Form 3B+ printer. This state-of-the-art dental 3D printer by Formlabs is based on the modern needs of dental professionals looking for precision and versatility. The device boasts an all-inclusive digital workflow solution, which includes pioneering software, an extensive resin portfolio for multiple dental indications, and user-friendly post-processing.

Key Benefits

♦ SLA printing process ensures detailed surface finishes and unparalleled print accuracy.

♦ Easy-to-use plug-and-play integration.

♦ Relatively affordable pricing based on the model you select.

♦ Includes a spill-free resin system.

♦ Only weighs 17.5 kg, for easy moveability around the shop.

Pricing

You’ll have to request a quote for the complete pricing, but you can get an idea of expenses based on the orthodontic model's cost of $2-3 each when using Draft Resin.

Karen’s Take

The Form 3B+ is what you want if you are looking for a “catch-all” 3D printer for everything from crowns to fillings. This option has an all-in-one feel because it has professional-grade quality without the struggle of focused niche product creation. To put it simply, if you don’t know where to start – start here.

#2 – Cara Print 4.0 Pro

If you want a machine that is based on current dental needs, you should consider the Kulzer cara® Print 4.0 pro. This is a well-known sophisticated 3D printer meticulously designed by dental experts that emphasizes a focus on improving dental workflows through enhanced accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness. In short, to make your technician’s needs way easier to resolve.

Key Benefits

♦ Offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional milling methods.

♦ Boasts a 46% larger building area compared to its predecessor.

♦ Employs 385 nm LEDs, ensuring color and material stability.

♦ Integrates a novel "smooth technology" that guarantees results without visible layering.

♦ The Accurate Fit System (AFS) provides a top-notch surface finish.

Pricing

These companies love to hide pricing. You need to call or contact for a quote.

Karen’s Take

What makes this 3D printer stand out is the smoothing technology. That drastically lowers errors or having to “refab” every new creation each time a patient comes in for a visit. That type of flexibility in response to the current market is a must-have for rapidly growing your practice. Plus, it is rumored to be on the affordable side.

#3 – Ultracraft ChairSide

UltraCraft ChairSide acts as a revolutionary chairside assistant, elevating 3D printing to the next level. It streamlines the entire dental printing process - from learning to end-product creation - in minimal time, without direct contact with the resin. If you have ever needed a bit more agility in your daily dental activities, this is a good addition because it doesn’t take endless headaches to learn how to operate properly.

Key Benefits

♦ Takes just 5 minutes to learn the basics.

♦ Over 20 applications and 10+ materials are available.

♦ Merges the resin tank, liquid, and material mechanism in a single capsule.

♦ Empowered by a 6-core CPU and GPU, it speeds up the printing process by 40%.

♦ Intelligent sensors reduce human errors.

♦ Suitable for various dental applications like fixed restorations, implants, and more.

Pricing

Again, you have to call for a quote.

Karen’s Take

What makes this little beauty so unique is precisely what the name suggests. You can use the ChairSide as if on those annoying round dental assistant chairs. It is small enough to be integrated into your current workflow at a small station but strong enough (mainly from AI-powered printing) to give you the precision and reliability you want.

#4 – EnvisionOne Dental 3D Printer

EnvisionOne Dental is an excellent addition to my extensive list because of the cDLM 3D printing technology. This is advanced imaging to practical physical object tech (meaning it creates incredible solutions with minimal effort) that can redefine your practice. It boasts a broad spectrum of Health Canada and FDA-cleared 3D printing resins. This platform offers a unified digital workflow to usher in superior 3D printing capabilities.

Key Benefits

♦ Powered by continuous digital light manufacturing technology.

♦ Achieves up to 45 mm/hour, contingent upon the material.

♦ Crafts 6 orthodontic arch models in less than 15 minutes.

♦ Boasts a resolution of 93 microns.

♦ Accommodates E1-Model Light, E-Guide Tint, and E-Model Beige resins.

♦ Uses a 385nm wavelength, optimizing accuracy for clear material.

Pricing

This is another one of those “request a quote” situations. Kind of annoying when you’re trying to get the info you want.

Karen’s Take

I ranked EnvisionOne so high because of the cDLM technology and strict adherence to both Canadian and U.S. regulations. That saves you a ton of time trying to make another model fit into a dental practice box.

#5 – JUELL 3D-3

The JUELL™ 3D-3 is a state-of-the-art dental 3D printer powered by Flash OC software. That is a fancy way of saying it is meant to be superior in speed, precision, and affordability. It is designed especially for orthodontic offices, implant practices, and dental laboratories. The build quality is high, and you get a ton of durability with each output.

Key Benefits

♦ One of the fastest on the market, producing orthodontic models in under 18 minutes.

♦ Utilizes DLP technology, renowned for superior resolution over laser-based printers.

♦ Enables high-volume production without compromising on quality.

♦ Supports diverse software and scanner integrations.

♦ Made in America with robust metals, ensuring longevity and resistance against UV damage to resin.

♦ Delivers the finest details with a minimum feature size of 50 μm.

Pricing

You’re looking at a few dollars per printed model, but precise pricing of the 3D printer requires a quote from the company.

Karen’s Take

Here, you get the speed you need when you have a massive demand for implants. The DLP tech and durability mean you don’t have to mess with maintenance issues as much as other models, making it a wise investment for any dental setup.

#6 – Stratasys J3 DentaJet 3D Printer

The J3 DentaJet 3D printer is an efficient option, but from what I can see, better fit for small to medium-sized labs. With the capacity to handle three distinct resins on a single tray, this printer combines unmatched accuracy with versatility to produce an array of dental applications simultaneously, from implant models to surgical guides and gingiva masks. That gives you a lot of punch for not much investment.

Key Benefits

♦ Print up to 3 different resins in one job, optimizing lab productivity.

♦ Efficiently cater to a wide variety of cases while maintaining exceptional accuracy.

♦ Incorporate GrabCAD to streamline the production process.

♦ Simultaneously produce implant models, orthodontic devices, removable models, and more.

♦ Offer 3D-printed indirect bonding trays or create clear aligners rapidly.

♦ Stratasys offers a unique range of biocompatible dental resins developed for.

Pricing

The exact pricing details for the J3 DentaJet 3D printer are not provided (big shocker). However, having multi-tray capabilities will reduce overall operating expenses.

Karen’s Take

This option is all about handling multiple materials on a single tray. So many of the printers I’ve worked with in dental practices only use one extruder at a time. Being able to quickly scale can be a massive time saver whenever you have larger orders.

#7 – SprintRay Pro S

The SprintRay Pro S 3D printer is crafted to enhance the efficiency and simplicity of dental in-office production. This is what I see as much better for dental professionals than beginner techs because the printer leans into a UI/UX where experienced users will feel more comfortable. The goal is to create a highly versatile printing experience for those who understand the precise customizations they need for each client.

Key Benefits

The Pro S delivers faster print speeds, maximizing output.
Suited for a myriad of dental treatments, it promises versatility in material use.
Smart sensors paired with workflow context optimize the 3D printing process.
The Pro S stands out as SprintRay’s most precise 3D printer.
Near-field technology allows the Pro S to automatically track each resin tank's lifetime.
The Pro S's enhanced structure improves Z-axis accuracy.

Pricing

Guess what? You’ll need to submit a quote request. They really don’t like publicizing the cost of these machines.

Karen’s Take

What is most beneficial about the Pro S is the dry and clean feature you get for the output. After each printing, you’ll see everything from dentures molds to fillings go through a heated dryer that leaves a completed solution for your dental team.

#8 – Sonic 4K 2022 Series LCD 3D Printer

Phrozen has meticulously harnessed the power of LCD 3D printing technology and tailored it for the dental domain. I love this interactive screen! Offering an expansive printing volume combined with decent precision, the brand promises top-tier quality in every print. Being able to visualize so much of what you’re working on makes a big difference for your teams.

Key Benefits

Leveraging the capabilities of Mono-LCD, Phrozen ensures a print speed that's 400% faster.
With the integration of powerful ParaLED 3.0 UV lights, dental models are produced with remarkable precision.
The addition of an efficient heater ensures a consistent environment for every print.
The Sonic 4K 2022 series, equipped with the advanced ParaLED 3.0 UV lights, promises faster print speeds.
The Phrozen DS slicer streamlines the 3D file editing process.
Designed to work seamlessly with a range of dental-specific resins.

Pricing

And again, you’re left with a request for a quote option only.

Karen’s Take

Here, you get speed and LCD control. Most of the printers on our list use LCD screens or easy-to-follow software, but this has a bit more “oomph” to the user interface that cuts down on the printer’s learning curve.

#9 – J5 DentaJet 3D Printer

The Stratasys J5 DentaJet™ emerges as a formidable dental 3D printer tailored for mid-sized to more extensive dental laboratories. Its primary allure stems from its commitment to minimizing expenses, boosting lab efficiency, and churning out a plethora of dental components with minimal manual intervention. What you’ll notice more is the realism of the prints, making it much easier to personalize each item.

Key Benefits

The ability to employ up to five distinct resins in a solitary print job.
The printer boasts vibrant color printing.
Offers a diverse range of dental cases with remarkable speed and efficiency, ensuring timely deliverables.
GrabCAD Print seamlessly integrates Stratasys dental printers into a unified software ecosystem.
The J5 DentaJet provides three printers merged into one. Be it an implant case with varied material requirements or an RPD setup with simultaneous model printing, this printer handles it all.

Pricing:

Nope, you’ll have to call to learn more for a precise cost.

Karen's Take

Okay, with this model, you are focusing on the color printing options (for both fun and matching tones) as well as blending multiple distinct resins in a single job. I like these types of machines because you get a bit more personalization compared to others.

#10 – SOL Dental 3D Printer

Designed for same-day chairside applications, SOL exemplifies innovation, marrying speed with precision to provide unrivaled results. This is a quick and easy solution to plug and play solutions at your chairside counter. You don’t get as much volume as other printers, but you have plenty of versatility and cost-saving personalization.

Key Benefits

The SOL promises a virtually nonexistent learning curve, with users going from unpacking to printing in as little as half an hour.
A vast library of over 150+ prevalidated materials.
SOL pioneers the use of Multiple-Size Build Platforms, slashing printing times by up to 60%.
SOL's technological prowess is evident in its dynamic optical light engine and its unique 54 LEDs panel.
With an impressive 49 μm XY resolution, SOL crafts dental components that feel natural, ensuring a smooth finish and impeccable fit.
SOL has redefined speed with its exclusive 🅂 Small & 🄼 Medium sized Build Platforms.

Pricing

Even though they focus on efficiency first design, they don’t put a price tag on the website.

Karen’s Take

The diversity of resin and additional materials is what sets this 3D printer apart. That helps with dental offices that serve a large and diverse clientele (think family dental practice). Plus, you cannot go wrong with a “same-day” solution whenever you have critical procedures happening.

#11 – Sega Dental 3D Printer

The Sega Dental 3D Printer is quickly becoming a leading beacon of speed and precision. You get plenty of versatility where the printer can churn out surgical guides, temporary teeth, crowns, and more within minutes, all while ensuring the highest quality.

Key Benefits

Delivers unparalleled speed in dental production.
Eliminates the need for a base, reducing resin usage and overall production costs.
Guarantees precision up to 15 microns for every print.
Offers a 99.9% successful print ratio, showcasing its reliability.
Comes with a 20,000-hour projector warranty for peace of mind.
Capable of producing a wide range of dental products swiftly, from dental models to monolithic dentures.

Pricing

Machine cost is competitive, but you save a ton through the high efficiency.

Karen’s Take

Here, it is all about efficiency and a highly beneficial print ratio. One of the significant challenges of 3D printers is a job crashing and burning due to a loose resin fill. This printer gets around that problem because of its durability and efficient design.

#12 – NextDent 5100

Powered by the groundbreaking Figure 4® technology, this cutting-edge machine offers unparalleled speed, performance, and precision in the creation of dental appliances and sacrificial castings. With a vast range of dental materials and seamless compatibility with top-tier dental software, NextDent 5100 will improve your current workflows by offering a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Key Benefits

Leverages the high-speed Figure 4® 3D printing technology.
Over 30 unique NextDent 3D printing materials are available.
Compatibility with standard intra-oral scanning and software solutions.
Benefiting from 3D Systems' three decades of experience in 3D printing.
Apart from the printer, the NextDent ecosystem includes the LC-3DMixer for ideal material stirring and the LC-3DPrint Box for UV post-curing.

Pricing

Nope, you will have to contact the company for a quote.

Karen’s Take

Having been in the dental industry for years, it's rare to find a tool that genuinely provides precisely what it promises. No, this isn’t the best on my list, but you get exactly what you are buying. There are no hidden surprises when you unbox NextDent – making it a reliable option for those inexperienced in 3D printing.

#13 – Primeprint

Primeprint Solution is a top-tier medical-grade 3D printing system tailored for dentists and dental technicians aiming to diversify their services. Beyond just 3D printing, this integrated system oversees the entire process, from file preparation to post-processing, ensuring meticulousness and efficiency at every step.

Key Benefits

Primeprint facilitates the whole printing journey, covering 3D printing, washing, and light-curing, supplemented by the Primeprint PPU (post-processing unit).
The system's high degree of automation slashes handling times, permits delegation, and drives productivity.
Integrating Dental Intelligence in both hardware and software ensures biocompatible applications with repeatable and accurate results.
The RFID-coded material handling ensures safe and clean operations throughout.
With DS Core Create, practitioners can either choose to craft designs themselves or delegate to expert lab technicians.
The system smartly manages various validated materials for diverse applications.

Pricing

Sorry, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer.

Karen’s Take

This 3D printer is all about the features. The actual “bang for your buck” is because you get a ton of processes wrapped into a single machine. That cuts way down on processing time, but does run the risk of the whole thing going dark if one component breaks.

What is a Dental 3D Printer?

A dental 3D printer is a groundbreaking fusion of traditional dentistry with the innovative world of 3D printing technology, especially when combined with the best intra oral scanners. While the concept of 3D printing has been around for some time, its application within the dental realm is still relatively new.

At its core, you are using the same technology as an inkjet printer for your following travel itinerary but using unique resins that are medical grade. Yes, you can print out a crown in these machines instead of working it by hand.

The idea here is to cut down on inefficient processes while adding way more accuracy. There are incredible dental part artists in the world, but sometimes, they are not that easy to contact. Having a machine that can get relatively close to that same precision is worth the investment.

How Can a Premium Dental 3D Printer Benefit You?

Investing in a top-tier dental 3D printer is like hiring a top chef for your kitchen. Your work becomes seamless, the results delectable, and you wonder how you ever managed without one. With high-quality dental appliances at your fingertips faster and more accurately, you stand to save both time and costs in the long run.

It’s saving time and money. You get to have a fully-fledged dental office dedicated to crafting highly personalized outputs – inside your already bustling practice. Best of all, you can run these printers using already hired staff or a single new team member instead of outsourcing the work. Just don’t miss the chance to combine the power of these printers with the best intraoral camera options for your build volume.

Buyers Guide: How I Conducted My Research

My research wasn't a shot in the dark. I’ve been in the dental industry for years and always take the time to understand the unique parts of a resin 3D printer. What I focused most on here was:

Accuracy: The more accurate the print, the higher the final product you are using for your team.
Resin Diversity: Most dental offices rely on a wide range of resins to craft the required materials needed.
Features: LCD screens or multi-tray printing are big feathers in the caps of these printers.
History: I only wanted to work with suppliers with a long history of evidence-backed products supported by dental professionals.

An important note here is I didn’t use pricing as part of my strategy for building this list. While it’s pretty easy to make educated guesses at the actual price tag on these printers, 12 out of 13 require you to contact the team for a quote. That is because they will adjust the price based on the volume of your practice, where you are in the world, and how much resin you’ll need daily.

Wrapping Up

There's an old saying, "Your tools define your craftsmanship." In the evolving world of dentistry, the 3D printer you choose can make all the difference.

As your trusty guide through thick and thin (or should I say, through crowns and bridges?), I have scoured the online world for the best 3D printers for dental offices based on my insider knowledge of what works best and experience as a dental professional.

Hopefully, you can get a solid foundation for where to start with your next purchase based on this in-depth article. Good luck and happy dental 3D printing!

FAQs

What types of resin printer is used in dentistry?

Dental 3D printers often employ technologies like DLP (Digital Light Processing) or stereolithography for precise results. In most cases, they use premium, medical-grade resins with anti-UV protection.

What is the best 3D printer for your practice resin for dental models?

The choice varies, but Formlabs has some top-notch dental resins worth considering. You want to go with accuracy. A good starting point may be DMD-31 DLP dental model resin.

What are the disadvantages of high-speed 3D printing in dentistry?

While 3D systems offer numerous advantages, challenges include equipment costs and the learning curve associated with mastering new technology. Plus, if you leave the printer unattended, you can end up with a bad result that costs you money and time.

Are 3D-printed dentures worth it?

Absolutely! They can offer a quicker turnaround and a precise fit through a range of biocompatible resins, enhancing comfort for the patient, and all in a simplified resin that fits their budgets.

How long do 3D-printed teeth last?

With the proper care and material, 3D-printed teeth can last several years, though it largely depends on the individual's wear and tear and how well the fit is for the teeth. The bonding agent has a lot to do with this last factor.

International Dentist Latest Post

Experts’ Secrets: 41 Ways on How to Grow your Dental Practice

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date August 31, 2023

Ever felt like the world of the dental industry is a bit crowded? Like there's always a new clinic popping up just around the corner. You're not alone.

Over countless cups of coffee and late nights, I've seen that having top-notch credentials doesn't seal the deal for a dental practice. Stellar service? Essential. And you know what pairs perfectly with that? A rock-solid marketing plan.

Trust me, I've been around the block and picked up something about what works.

Now, picture a day when your practice isn't just another name in the directory but the one everyone's buzzing about. I've watched some practices hit gold with targeted email campaigns, teeth whitening promotions, and the intelligent adoption of digital technology like intraoral scanners and 3D printers.

But there's a bigger picture. Harnessing the power of online reviews, genuine community engagement, top-notch patient care, and cutting-edge technology can redefine how you grow your practice.

Becoming your neighborhood's go-to dental practice is more than finding a one-size-fits-all marketing strategy. Achieving success in the dental world is more like a treasure hunt. As you explore these marketing gems I've collected, adapt them to fit the unique qualities that set your practice apart.

Ready to dig in and grow your dental practice?

What is Dental Marketing?

Dental digital marketing is a set of activities that help promote your dental practice. It will help you get new patients and keep existing ones happy.

Most dentists find dental digital marketing hard to understand, so they're still determining how to start doing it well. That's why we created this guide—to show you precisely what dental marketing is,

How to Market Your Dental Practice

Digital marketing can conjure several things, like complex social media platforms or endless email marketing ads. Some people think of it as the shady practice of trying to sell something someone doesn't need, while others see it as a way to promote their business and services so that more prospective patients know about them.

Digital marketing is the same for dentists: getting your dental practices out there to attract more patients into your routine. It would be best if you had this because it helps:

♦ To ensure you can pay your dental practice team and bills.

♦ Alleviate the public need for more comprehensive dentistry services.

♦ Grow your local business reputation so your business stays healthy.

♦ Ensures you have a future in the dentistry industry so you can help promote and support others trying to do the same.

More importantly, though, digital marketing helps you grow your business by increasing patient satisfaction and referrals—two factors that have been shown repeatedly to be critical drivers for success in any dental practice.

Here are the fantastic methods of dental marketing I've seen work to grow a business practice so you'll have years of successful business operations.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Grow Your Dental Practice

◊ Build an SEO-Optimized Website

◊ Create a Differentiating Service or Theme

◊ Get Involved in the Local Community

◊ Be Mobile Friendly

◊ Solicit Positive Online Reviews

◊ Unify Your Dental Directory Listings

◊ Leverage Press Releases

◊ Start a PPC Campaign

◊ Create a Patient Referral Program

◊ Hire a Social Media Manager

◊ Run Dental Service Promotions

◊ Capture Leads with Ad Retargeting

◊ Partner with Local Businesses & Schools

◊ Offer Comprehensive Payment Options & Membership Savings

◊ Create an Engaging Blog

◊ Use Online Scheduling with 24/7 Access

◊ Don't Underestimate Paper Flyers and billboards

◊ Sponsor a 5K that Benefits Children

◊ Buy Radio & Podcast Ads

◊ Provide Some Teledentistry Services

◊ Always Have Top-Notch Customer Service

1. Go Digital

Going digital is like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone; the benefits are too good to ignore.

I can't tell you how much patients love it when we use intraoral scanners. Why? Because it turns an abstract problem into something they can see on a screen. For instance, those "before and after" photos are pretty much a mic-drop moment when persuading a patient they need to act now on their dental issues.

It's a game-changer, honestly. Plus, let's not forget that a radiant smile isn't just about dental health; it's a self-confidence booster that works like a charm whenever you flash those pearly whites.

2. Build an SEO-Optimized Website

An easy way to grow your practice is by optimizing your website for search engines like Google or Bing. You can do this by hiring an SEO service professional who will help optimize the title tags of all pages on your site to contain relevant keywords.

Then, they will work with you on creating meta descriptions that pop out at people when they search for information about dental services near them (they'll also make sure there aren't duplicate content issues).

Ensure each page has unique content – don't put filler text just because it looks better visually! The unique content on each page means that search engines will find more opportunities for them when people look up stuff related to dentistry services near their homes.

3. Get Involved in the Local Community

Community involvement is a great way to meet new people and get your name out there. If you're shy, don't worry—there are plenty of ways to get involved without being too pushy or aggressive.

Here are some ideas:

♦ Join a local sports team.

♦ Volunteer at an event like Canada Day or Pride Parade.

♦ Sponsor an event.

♦ Help with food banks.

♦ Join a community planning committee.

♦ Set up a holiday-themed party.

After these events, be sure to capture videos and photos to share on Instagram or through direct market opportunities on the internet that boost your presence.

4. Be Mobile Friendly

It would help if you were mobile-friendly. The days of sitting in front of your computer and typing away are over. To grow your practice, your website must be mobile-friendly and easy to use on a phone or tablet.

Try creating a mobile app for your practice to make things even more accessible. That way, users can see your services and make appointments from their phones.

5. Solicit Positive Online Reviews

Be proactive in asking patients for reviews. In the age of digital marketing for dentists, reviews are everything. Whether running a small or large dental practice, positive online reviews will help increase your visibility, attract new clients, and improve your overall brand image.

Respond promptly to negative online reviews. If you receive an unfavorable review online (which is inevitable), respond quickly and politely by thanking the patient for their feedback and offering solutions on how you can help them move forward.

6. Unify Your Dental Directory Listings

Unifying all your dental directory listings is critical to maximizing their effectiveness. This means ensuring every mention of your practice has the correct contact information, website, phone number, social media, and physical address.

7. Leverage Press Releases

Press releases are one of the most effective dental advertising ways to get your name out there and build your reputation as a thought leader in the dental field.

These digital marketing for dentists announcements are posted on relevant websites and social media (like local news outlets), and they're usually available to view by anyone interested, whether they've heard of you before.

8. Start a PPC Campaign

PPC, or paid search digital marketing for dentists, is the act of advertising on Google, Bing, or social media to get more website visitors. It's an effective way to get your name out there and attract new patients and an excellent way to increase brand awareness using local SEO in your marketing strategy.

Getting started with PPC can be overwhelming, especially if you need to familiarize yourself with digital marketing for dentists or local SEO marketing strategy.

Save time by hiring a digital marketing team who understands your target audience.

These are usually reasonably priced and can efficiently run your social media platforms and search engine campaigns. For as little as $5/day, you could see your practice grow exponentially.

9. Create a Patient Referral Program

Referral programs are a great way to get new patients. If you have an existing referral program, make sure that you are promoting it via all channels. You can use your website, social media, and email marketing to inform people about your referral program and how they can benefit from being part of it.

The goal is to incentivize your patients to reach out to friends, family members, coworkers, or anyone else in the local community who may be interested in your dental services.

10. Hire a Social Media Manager

You are busy and already have enough on your plate. Let's be honest; with the right person in place, this can be one of the most beneficial investments you make for your practice.

You will find that it is well worth the cost if you do it properly and find someone who understands your business and its needs.

If you hire an intern or entry-level employee to fill this role, keep at least one eye open for potential problems, as they may need help understanding what is expected of them or fail to deliver results because of inexperience or lack of follow-through ability.

11. Run Dental Service Promotions

Dentists can promote their dental services by offering special discounts on certain services. For example, if you're looking to attract new patients and run a dental discount code promotion, offer free whitening or tooth cleaning.

This can be easily combined with your referral program or visual advertising at local events.

12. Capture Leads with Ad Retargeting

Ad retargeting is a great way to capture leads. It allows you to target people who have visited your website, and dentists can use it to promote products or services, as well as your website or blog.

You can readjust your ads and digital marketing towards specific events, dates, and target market segments, or your dental services have changed.

13. Partner with Local Businesses and schools

Partnering with local businesses and schools can be a great way to reach new patient populations. You can offer free toothbrush kits to kids on the first day of school or discounts to anyone shopping at a candy store.

Get creative, and you may uncover incredibly beneficial partnerships.

14. Offer Comprehensive Payment Options & Membership Savings

One of the best ways to keep your patients returning is by offering them options in how they pay.

Whether you're a private practice or have a chain of dental clinics, offering multiple payment methods will help build customer loyalty and retention.

Remember to build up loyal customers through membership programs. Offering discounts for those who sign up for membership programs means that you can retain more patients over time - which will ultimately mean more repeat business from those same people.

15. Create an Engaging Blog

Blogging is an excellent way to gain credibility with potential patients and generate more leads for your practice through SEO (search engine optimization). In addition, it will help build trust by providing valuable content that educates patients before they visit you in person.

16. Use Online Scheduling with 24/7 Access

Online scheduling is one of the most essential tools for any dental practice. A system with online appointment scheduling and patient management is a crucial part of your business, serving as an integral component of your marketing and patient retention strategy.

A well-designed online appointment book can help you increase revenue, boost your brand awareness, reduce no-shows, increase efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction—all while increasing your bottom line.

17. Don't Underestimate Paper Flyers and billboards

It's true! Paper flyers can be a great way to get your practice in front of potential patients. You may have heard that they're considered a bit outdated, but they're still used by many dentists—especially those looking for new patients who don't know where to start.

A flyer at your local diner could drastically increase your ROI.

18. Sponsor a 5K that Benefits Children

Look for a local 5K that's accepting sponsors. You can search online or ask around at your gym or community centers if you know where to start.

Once you've found a 5K that fits your goal, talk to their marketing team about how they promote the event. They'll also be able to tell you how many participants usually sign up for each event so you can plan accordingly.

19. Buy Radio & Podcast Ads

Radio and podcast ads are great for dental marketing because they're less expensive than other types of advertising. You can run these ads on stations or shows that appeal to your desired demographics, like talk radio or comedy shows.

20. Provide Some Teledentistry Services

Teledentistry allows patients to see their dentist remotely via video chat. It's a great way to provide remote care and save patients money on travel and time off work. Here are the benefits of teledentistry:

♦ Patients can access dental services in their homes and jobs.

♦ Dentists can be more productive since they don't have to schedule patients into appointments.

♦ Practices get more revenue from the additional monthly patient visits since there is no need for travel costs or lost productivity.

21. Always Have Top-Notch Customer Service

Look, the best dental marketing campaigns worldwide won't save you if your customer service is lacking.

It's the backbone of your practice and where your team can truly shine. I can't stress this enough—every interaction, from the first phone call to the follow-up after a procedure, is an opportunity to grow your practice.

Investing in customer service training for your team ensures that patients return and become enthusiastic advocates for your dental service.

It's a chain reaction: stellar service leads to happy patients, and satisfied patients lead to a thriving practice.

22. Offer Virtual Tours:

Offering a virtual tour of your dental practice is like rolling out a VIP red carpet for potential patients—digitally, of course. Studies have shown (trust me, you'll want to Google this!) that a virtual tour can help a potential patient choose a new dental clinic.

It eliminates the unknowns, letting people explore your practice without setting foot in the building. They get to see where they'll sit, what equipment you use, and maybe even catch a glimpse of your friendly staff in action.

Think of it as a "try before you buy" for the anxious or the skeptical. And hey, it's the kind of preview that could turn a maybe into a definitive "Yes, I'm booking an appointment!"

23. Develop a Loyalty Program

Reward regular patients with a point-based system that offers discounts or freebies. A loyalty program is like a gift that keeps on giving—both for your practice and your patients.

It's a two-way street of awesomeness that fosters long-term relationships while supercharging your practice growth.

Consider it: a patient rewarded for repeat visits is likelier to return and bring in friends or family. We're talking more than just a free toothbrush here; imagine points for service discounts or even a 'refer-a-friend' bonus.

It's a magnetic pull that retains your existing clientele and attracts potential patients like bees to honey. So, a loyalty program is your golden ticket if you aim for a win-win in patient satisfaction and business growth.

24. Host Dental Health Workshops

Hosting dental health workshops is not just about filling seats; it's about filling hearts and minds with valuable knowledge—and hey, it's a genius move in practice management.

I've found that workshops create a community around your practice that extends far beyond your dental offices.

It positions you as a thought leader in the field, someone who's not just after the next appointment booking but genuinely cares about patients' overall well-being.

Whether it's a kid-friendly workshop on the importance of flossing or a deep dive into the benefits of dental implants for adults, these events provide an educational platform that enriches your practice's relationship with the community.

Plus, guess what? These educated attendees are now far more likely to think of your practice first when they need dental services.

It's like planting seeds today for a harvest of patient loyalty tomorrow.

25. Personalized Patient Experience

Ah, the personalized patient experience—it's like the Spotify of dentistry, curating the visit to suit each individual's needs and preferences. And trust me, if you're looking to take your practice to the next level, this is the high note you need to hit.

For example, keeping track of dental hygiene habits or knowing a patient's sensitive areas can elevate the level of care and make your patients feel valued and understood.

This kind of personal touch transforms a routine dental visit into an experience, and these experiences turn first-time dental patients into lifetime fans. Because everyone loves VIP treatment, right? Tailoring visits in this way makes your practice more than just a place for dental care; it becomes a haven of personalized attention

26. Attend Dental Conferences

I've uncovered some of the most innovative digital dental solutions just by walking the conference floors. You're exposed to new tools and technologies that can make dental work more efficient and patient-friendly.

And let's not forget the networking opportunities—meeting experts in the field could lead to potential partnerships that significantly benefit your practice.

27. Invest in Staff Training

Investing in staff training is more than just an expenditure—it's like putting your marketing dollars to work in the most organic way possible.

When your team is knowledgeable and efficient, you can focus on what you do best: providing top-notch dental care.

Comprehensive training programs can help unlock the full potential of your staff, from front-desk management to dental hygienists. This elevates the patient experience and contributes to a smoother, more efficient workflow.

Ultimately, a well-trained team acts like a well-oiled machine, driving your practice toward tremendous success.

28. Automated Reminders

Automated reminders are your practice's secret weapon for keeping the schedule full and the chairs occupied. This isn't just about pestering existing patients with emails or texts; it's a gentle nudge they appreciate.

Reminding them of upcoming appointments or necessary check-ups eliminates the "I forgot" factor that often leads to no-shows.

This strategy also minimizes the need to constantly establish a whole new patient base, as you're booking more appointments with those who already trust your services.

So, if you're looking for a simple yet effective way to keep those appointments coming, automated reminders should be high on your to-do list.

29. Engage in Email Marketing

If you think email is old school, think again. Email remains one of the most effective ways to communicate with existing and potential patients in the sea of digital marketing tactics.

Using a simple, clean design with targeted messaging can attract new patients and keep the current ones engaged. A well-crafted email can serve multiple purposes: it educates, updates, and, most importantly, keeps your practice top-of-mind.

Whether it's a monthly newsletter, seasonal promotions, or just a "we miss you" note, never underestimate the power of a well-timed email.

30. Use Video Marketing

Video marketing is no longer the future; it's the present, especially for a dental practice aiming to stand out. A well-executed video can showcase your services, tell your practice's story, and, most importantly, build brand awareness.

I've seen firsthand how a 60-second video tour of a dental office can put potential patients at ease, even before they step into the clinic.

And let's remember how-to videos or patient testimonials; these can be incredibly persuasive and shareable, extending your reach beyond your immediate network.

If a picture is worth a thousand words, imagine what a video could do for your practice.

31. Telephonic Support

You might think phone calls are a thing of the past, but don't take into account their power in effective dental marketing.

Offering top-notch telephonic support doesn't just help with immediate queries; it's an invaluable way to build your brand and elevate your online reputation. There's nothing like the warmth of a natural, human voice to reassure existing or potential patients that they're making the right choice.

A quick but thoughtful conversation can be a game-changer in booking appointments and nurturing long-term patient relationships.

Remember, it's not just about picking up the phone; it's about creating an experience that complements your entire practice

33. Environmentally Conscious Practices

Go green by minimizing waste and using sustainable products, which can also be a selling point.

34. Modern Interior Design

Refresh the decor to provide a soothing and modern atmosphere, reducing patient anxiety.

35. Offer Family Packages

Bundle services for families to encourage them to use your practice exclusively.

36. Collaborate with Influencers

Collaborate with local influencers to promote your practice on social media platforms.

37. Dental Health for Schools

Propose dental health programs in schools, teaching children about oral hygiene.

38. Upgrade Waiting Areas

Make waiting pleasant with comfortable seating, reading material, and entertainment options for adults and kids.

39. Flexible Timings

Offer early morning, late evening, or weekend slots for those who find regular hours inconvenient.

40. Utilize Virtual Reality

Offer VR headsets for patients during procedures, allowing them to escape to calming environments or even play games, turning a stressful experience into an almost enjoyable one.

41. Curate an Informative Newsletter

Regularly send out a digital or print newsletter packed with dental tips, updates on your practice, and special offers.

Newsletters keep your practice in the minds of your existing patients and can also attract new ones.

Critical Considerations for Successfully Growing Your Dental Practice

You need to know your audience well. Understanding who you are serving informs how you target digital marketing to them and what services you should provide. You will want fun imagery if you are helping primary younger kids compared to a more professional appearance for adults.

It would be best if you also looked at your local competition. Find the aspect of your business that differentiates you from the others offering similar services. This could be lower prices, more technology learning services, or better customer service. Then, you promote this difference through dental advertising.

Stick to your strengths and weaknesses. Every dental practice has something that makes them unique. Once you find that aspect, lean into it!

Taking it to the Next Level: How to Market Your Practice in the Metaverse

The Metaverse is your virtual world when logged into Facebook or YouTube. You can fly on a plane if you don't mind running into photorealistic avatars of other people who want to sell their products and services to you.

It may seem early to make this adoption, but now is when you want to set up your virtual practice that accepts real-life appointments. Even one to two patients a month who find you through the Metaverse will be enough when this technology becomes commonplace.

Alternatives to Dental Marketing

If all of this sounds too overwhelming for you, don't worry. No matter how much or little you plan on putting into your marketing, the key is offering premium service. Word of mouth will get out if your practice is a more inviting experience for your patients.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, this guide has helped you grow your dental practice and build a loyal patient base.

Ultimately, it's all about finding what works best for you and your practice. Hundreds of other options are available, so feel free to experiment with different tactics until one sticks.

Tags dental digital marketing, grow a dental practice, how to grow your dental practice

HOME KIDS Nutrition Oral Care

45 Best Oral Care Products in 2023

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date July 14, 2023

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Snow Whitening Kits

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Blu smart Toothbrush

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Vegan Started Kit

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

cari Pro Water Flosser

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

CariPro Nightguard Cleaner

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Snow Arctic frost teeth whitening

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Bamboo Toothbrush

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

Dr. Tung's Stainless steel Tongue Cleaner

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

Coco Stripes Vegan Class

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Snow Whitening Kits

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Blu smart Toothbrush

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Vegan Started Kit

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

cari Pro Water Flosser

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

CariPro Nightguard Cleaner

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Snow Arctic frost teeth whitening

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Bamboo Toothbrush

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

Dr. Tung's Stainless steel Tongue Cleaner

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

Coco Stripes Vegan Class

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electronic toothbrushes are excellent ways to clean your teeth and maintain oral health. They are equipped with advanced features such as oscillating brush heads that move back and forth at high speeds, providing a deep clean that removes plaque and bacteria effectively. The brush heads also come in different sizes and shapes, making it easy to reach every nook and cranny of your teeth and gums.

We recommend these products because they have been shown to remove significantly more plaque and gingivitis than their manual alternatives. Also, many have pressure sensitivity and built-in timers to make brushing way more enjoyable.

1. SNOW Whitening Gel & Kits

First thing you’ll notice when clicking on our link here is the massive variety. Snow has done an exceptional job of sourcing all kinds of kits, accessories, and featured items to ensure your teeth whitening experience is not only rewarding but as easy to achieve as possible.

TRY SNOW TODAY

2. Blu Smart Toothbrush

This electric sonic toothbrush gives you a more accurate brushing experience because it is controlled by a mobile application. This ensures you get all target areas of your teeth and gums while also building strong dental health habits over the long term.

3. Better and Better Vegan Starter Kit

This starter set boosts your natural toothpaste with Vitamin B12 and D3, all wrapped in a refreshing mint flavor anyone would enjoy. In addition, the set comes with eco-friendly natural floss, a bamboo toothbrush, and a fun little 2-minute hourglass for developing good habits.

BETTER AND BETTER VEGAN STARTED KIT

4. cariPRO Water Flossers

The touch of technology has finally come to water flossing thanks to cariPRO. This is a simplified way to get a precision flossing experience without needing string, cords, or messy cleanup. You also get a variety of specialty tips for those hard-to-reach spaces.

5. CariPRO Nightguard Toothbrush

This is a personal favorite of our team and has been featured in Forbes, Fox, and is FDA-registered. The complete package includes the electric toothbrush with many cleaning options as well as replacement heads, a tongue scraper, and a wireless charging dock to simplify your routine.

6 – Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Instead of using harmful fluoride, these fantastic tables are infused with hydroxyapatite (the main component of healthy enamel). In addition, they are only pea-sized, making them highly convenient instead of the unpredictable squeezing of a tube every time. You also get a plastic and paraben-free solution to clean brushing.

DESESH WHITENING TOOTHPASTE

7 – Snow Arctic Frost Teeth Whitening mouthwash

Being the number one suggested mouthwash by the famous men’s magazine Esquire is nothing to shake a stick at. That is because you get a natural mint flavor to this product without the overly harsh chemical taste. They also included extra aloe for a soothing after-sensation.

SNOW ARCTIC FROST TEETH WHITENING

8 – Better and Better Bamboo Toothbrush

We love Dr. Brite as an oral healthcare brand. This is an easy-to-use electronic toothbrush supported by sonic cleaning technology, so you get professional cleaning every time you brush at home. It is a little on the pricier side, but that is because the quality is undeniable.

TRY BETTER & BETTER TODAY

9 – Dr. Tung's Stainless Steel Tongue Cleaner

First off, this comes in a highly convenient and attractive pouch for those who may feel a little embarrassed – which is perfectly okay. With only a few gentle passes, you’ll get a much cleaner oral health routine and fresher breath that lasts for most of the day and night.

TRY DR. TUNG TONGUE CLEANER

10 – Dr. Coco Stripes Vegan Floss

This vegan floss makes your dental care green and maintains a stunning smile. It is carefully crafted from corn and has a candelilla wax coating with a light mint flavor that makes it 100% natural.

DR. COCO STRIPES VEGAN FLOSS

Water Flossers

A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, is a device that uses a stream of water to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. They can be especially beneficial for those who have difficulty flossing with traditional string floss or have braces, bridges, or dental implants. Even something as little as a three-second water flossing application can move 99.9% of plague biofilm!

1 – Snow Water Flosser

With three different water flossing settings, you get a comprehensive solution to ensuring your gums, teeth, and oral cavity remain crystal clean. The reusable tip nozzles are safe for any smile and an easy way to eliminate germs that can build up over time.

2 – cariPRO Cordless Water Flosser

3 – Dr. Brite Water Flosser

You get a ton of water flossing modes and power settings with Dr. Brite to eliminate everything from years of buildup to last night’s BBQ. There are three unique tips for targeting areas of concern and a self-contained refillable reservoir for ease of use.

Whitening Products

Whitening products are a popular way to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. They work by removing or reducing the appearance of surface stains on the teeth caused by things like coffee, tea, and red wine. There are several types of whitening products available, including over-the-counter whitening toothpaste, whitening gels, and professional teeth whitening treatments. We love these products because you get a scientifically proven boost to your confidence, so when you smile, you mean it!

There are quite a few different varieties of whitening products, so we broke this category into specific lists for your oral care benefit.

Whitening Trays/Kits

1 – Snow Teeth Whitening Kits

2 –Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening Trays

This kit is like having a dental lab conveniently placed inside your bathroom. Every kit uses a personalized tray and gel based on your unique sensitivity, so you increase the brilliance of your teeth without sacrificing comfort while you wait.

3 – Glo Brilliant Advanced White Smile

You cannot have a modern teeth whitening kit in today’s world without considering LED light technology. With this innovative whitening system, you apply a gel and use an LED-lined tray that can improve your teeth up to 12 shades for a beautiful result.

4 –Zimba Essential Whitening Kit

For the more budget-friendly option, Zimba provides a desensitizing pen to ensure your comfort and an evidence-backed teeth whitening strip that works as quickly as 30 minutes. Best of all, they are flavored, so you don’t get that overly sanitized taste in your mouth when done.

5 – Smile Sciences Original Teeth Whitening Kit

This is another flavored kit available in peppermint or bubblegum that gives you an excellent whitening solution using vegan and cruelty-free gel. We highly recommend this option for anyone with overly sensitive teeth due to the unique composition of the gel.

6 –Perio Sciences Teeth Whitening Bundle

This is a one-stop bundle with everything you need for complete teeth whitening solutions. It markets a “zing-free” experience, meaning you don’t get that sharp tingle when you use the pre-treatment system before applying the whitening tray.

7 – Dr. Brite Wireless Advanced Whitening System

With active hydrogen peroxide and a specialized LED teeth tray, you’ll get rid of all those stains that have been building up for years in your mouth. Be sure to take advantage of the night whitening pen included for those especially tough-to-remove discolorations.

Whitening Pens/Serums

1 – Snow Extra Strength Whitening Serum

This is Snow’s best-selling product for a good reason. Using nothing more than a simple serum, you can gently remove the deepest teeth stain using clean and easy-to-understand ingredients instead of the complex list you get from big box stores.

2 – Smile Brilliant Desensitizing Gel

Again, a good solution for those with highly sensitive teeth. The simplified applicator gets into the nooks and crannies of your teeth. Also, being individually sealed makes it much easier to ensure the gel you purchase won’t dry out in between uses.

3 –VIE BEAUTI TEETH WHITENING PEN

One of the more reliable budget-friendly options on our list of the best oral care products that effectively remove years of stain buildup from coffee, tea, wine, smoking, soda, and more. It doesn’t go as far as 12 shades brighter like others, but you can expect at least 4-8, which is nothing too shabby.

4 – Dr. Brite Teeth Whitening Pens

This is another complete list of products we suggest because each one is designed to target specific users. They have everything from sensitivity relief to advanced kits with added hydrogen peroxide. The diversity of whiting pens means you’ll have a solid solution for any stage of your oral care.

Whitening Mouthwash/Foams/Powders

1 – Snow Arctic Frost Teeth Whitening Mouthwash

2 – Snow Whitening Foam

Approved by vegans, this is a quick solution to spraying into your aligner or night guard while you sleep for a gentle whiting overnight. It includes a specially formulated foam that will not harm your tooth enamel like other harsh alternatives.

3 –Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder

For those that prefer a more straightforward whitening solution, we suggest this highly effective powder that you can quickly sprinkle over your toothpaste and boost your nightly routine. All it takes is one shake of the lavender and mint flavor, and you get a dentist-formulated solution to a brilliant smile.

Whitening Strips

1 – Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Strips

The subscription model of this whitening option is a great way to ensure you have a year-round shining smile. Instead of dealing with the gooey mess of uncomfortable mainstream trays, you get a simplified, barely visible stip that is easy to take on and off.

2 – Zimba Whitening Strips

Never suffer through an overly chemical-tasting strip again with Zimba. These provide all kinds of delicious flavors with a proven formula that boosts and improves the shades of your teeth, all while protecting those with overly sensitive gums.

Dental Stain Concealer

Dental stain concealers can provide an instant whitening effect. They can be a great solution for people who want to hide stains before a special event or for people who are not ready to commit to a long-term whitening treatment. Think of these oral care products as a temporary solution when you need a fix in a pinch.

1 – Night Out Dental Stain Concealer

In as little as 60 seconds, you get a quick solution to a brighter smile that conceals yellow stains. All you need to do is brush on this formula and rinse it off with water, and you are good to head out to your date, meeting, or evening of fun.

Remineralization Gel

This is a dental product that can help to strengthen and protect tooth enamel. The gel typically contains fluoride and other minerals that can help to rebuild and remineralize the enamel, making teeth stronger and more resistant to decay. While not a long-term solution for cavities or tooth decay, it offers plenty of preventative measures to strengthen the health of the underlying enamel.

1 – cariPRO Enamel Armour

Anyone suffering from chronic tooth sensitivity knows having a sustained release treatment is a quality solution. With this enamel armour, you get an easy fix to sealing in pores, improving tooth hydration, and exceptional resistance to cavities and stains.

Sensitivity Relief Kit

A sensitivity relief kit is an excellent option for individuals who experience tooth sensitivity and want to maintain proper oral health. These help with drinking cold fluids, eating ice cream, or reducing the pain you feel whenever anything minty comes your way.

1 – Dr. Brite Senstivity Relief Oral Care Kit

This easy-to-use kit is a cruelty-free, vegan solution to boosting health and lowering the sensitivity of your teeth. It is clinically proven by scientific studies and offers easy-to-understand ingredients that make life much more enjoyable.

Energy Started Set

The idea behind sets like this is to boost the overall quality of the product you use on your teeth by infusing it with additional benefits. You always want to seek out energy starter sets that are based on high-quality sources and ingredients, so you get the most aid without any of the chemical worries.

1 – Better & Better Energy Starter Set

Save 10% On Your First Toothpaste Purchase

Healthy Gums Kit

Gums have a critical role in maintaining your overall oral health. These keep your precious teeth in place and ensure you get the bit you need for delicious food all day long. Keeping them in tip-top shape ensures you get a reliable seal around them, so no food or unwanted bacteria creeps in and causes related health issues down the road. The good news is that there are plenty of high-quality products available to help your gum care routine.

1 – Dr. Brite Healthy Gums Oral Care Kit

Many patients experience gum bleeding when flossing or eating foods like popcorn, which can get stuck in the tiny space between the gums and teeth. With this specially designed formula, you get strong, healthier, and protective gums for much longer.

Retainer Cleaner

These products are not just for those with a retainer for tooth straining. Many whitening products we rely upon for quality smile brightness also use a tray system. Without the proper care and maintenance, these trays can get a little gross over time and lead to bacteria buildup. Having a reliable retainer cleaner helps avoid these situations, so you get the dedicated treatment you need each and every time.

1 – carPRO ULTRASONIC CLEANER

This beautifully constructed device uses ultrasonic technology and a UV sterilizing light to destroy any odor-causing bacteria. It lifts up the stains from your various whitening trays and night guards, so they look and feel good as news every time you put them in.

Retainer Cleaning Tablets

These tablets dissolve in water and give your trays, mouthguards, and other retainer items a “bath” that effectively removes any buildup or discoloration. You always want to seek out the best quality cleaning tablets because the not-so-well-formulated solutions can lead to a yellowing effect that no one wants. That is why we took the time to explore the oral care products only designed for optimal outcomes.

1 – cariPRO RETAINER CLEANER

The ability to kill up to 99.99% of all bacteria and fungi growing on any oral appliance is a reliable solution to keeping your whitening trays and mouthguards squeaky clean. The tablets are available in mint flavoring and effectively remove any unwanted odors from the 3 months supply.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is an excellent way to clean your teeth and maintain proper oral health because it contains a combination of ingredients that work together to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, freshen your breath, and promote healthy gums. This is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal for combating poor hygiene and promoting good overall oral health. With nothing more than a decent toothbrush and a regular schedule, you can easily prevent most of the unwanted cavities and gum disease common in our mouths.

1 – Dr. Brite Anti-Plauqe Toothpaste

Time to upgrade your smile with a carefully crafted formal that fights plaque buildup, so you get a sparkling smile after each brushing. Combined with a delicious mint flavor that will make your breath fresh, this is a wonderful addition to anyone’s morning and night brushing routine.

2 – Perio Sciences Toothpaste

This is a fantastic line of toothpaste designed for those wanting a natural, whitening, sensitive, or hydrating boost to their brushing. It uses a tested polishing agent to gently remove all kinds of stains and buildup without drying alcohol or harmful chemicals.

3 – SD Total Care Toothpaste

This cost-effective daily-use toothpaste will enhance your gum health and treat the common symptoms of dry mouth. It is made with self-adjusting perlite and has a refreshing mint flavor that is not too harsh for those with sensitive teeth and enamel.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash, also known as an oral rinse or mouth rinse, is a liquid solution used as an oral hygiene aid. It is typically used to freshen breath, kill germs, reduce plaque, and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. The unique benefits of each product depend on the formula they use. Some are designed to help bolster gum health, while others market the fresh breath aspect. We wanted to find products that balance all these features, so you get a comprehensive solution without the hassle.

1 – Perio Sciences Rinse

Much like their toothpaste, this line of mouth rinse provides all the total care you need for a healthy oral cavity while also freshening your breath, so you don’t have to walk around holding your hand up every time you talk.

2 – SD Total Care Mouthwash

Always look for total care solutions. The difference with SD is that they focus on relieving dry mouth symptoms with a vegan-friendly formula that boosts your breath and leaves your mouth feeling healthy, hydrated, and clean.

Toothpaste Tablets - Eco Friendly

Toothpaste tablets are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional toothpaste tubes. They are designed to be a more sustainable option as they generate less waste, are made with natural ingredients and are packaged in a more environmentally friendly manner. They are also travel-friendly and easy to use. Another advantage of toothpaste tablets is that they are often free from harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients found in traditional tubes of toothpaste, such as fluoride, parabens, and triclosan, which can be detrimental to the environment and to one's health.

1 – Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Vegan / Eco-Friendly Floss

Let’s face it, plastic floss creates a ton of waste. However, you still need it to get that scientifically proven reduction in gum disease, gingivitis, and plaque. That is why you should check out our list of more eco-friendly options available that will help improve your brushing routines without damaging our natural environment.

1 – COCO STRIPES VEGAN FLOSS

This vegan floss makes your dental care green and maintains a stunning smile. It is carefully crafted from corn and has a candelilla wax coating with a light mint flavor that makes it 100% natural.

2 – Dr. Tung’s Activated Charcoal Floss

If you haven’t heard of activated charcoal before, this is a smart solution to improving your smile without harsh chemicals. The vegan side of this equation leads to less waste in the trash, and it has a pleasant lemongrass flavor on top!

Bamboo Toothbrush

Bamboo is a highly sustainable and renewable resource. It proliferates and doesn't require pesticides or fertilizers. They are often made from sustainable and ethically sourced materials, making them a more ethical choice than traditional plastic toothbrushes. These are a comfortable and durable solution to your brushing routine that doesn’t break the bank whenever you need a resupply.

1 – Orthomechanic Bamboo Toothbrush Set

For those wanting a non-toxic toothbrush that can be fully recycled and uses 100% natural ingredients, this is your answer. These use Biolon bristle made from natural beans, which means you don’t have to pull them out before recycling.

2 – Coco Stripes Bamboo Toothbrush for Adults

With a multicolored set of 10 toothbrushes, you get a beautifully designed bamboo solution for a clean mouth. The bristles are soft on your gums and teeth, which is comforting for those dealing with high sensitivity or occasional bleeding.

Tongue Cleaner

Tongue cleaners, also known as tongue scrapers, can be an excellent way to improve oral care, as they help to remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the tongue. This can help to freshen your breath, reduce plaque, and improve overall oral hygiene. Plenty of research demonstrates that a reduction in plaque can occur when using a tongue cleaner alongside regular brushing. Not to mention you get a much more pleasant breath situation for those close encounters with friends and dates.

1 – Dr. Tung’s Stainless Steel Tongue Cleaner

FAQ's

What are the best practices for maintaining good oral hygiene?

The best practices for maintaining good oral hygiene include brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

How often should I brush and floss my teeth?

Brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime, with high-quality toothpaste is recommended. As for flossing, try to floss at least once a day, ideally before brushing your teeth at night.

Is it necessary to use mouthwash as part of my oral care routine?

While mouthwash is not strictly necessary for oral care, it can be beneficial as it can help freshen breath, kill germs, reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.

Are there any particular foods or drinks that I should avoid for optimal oral health?

To maintain optimal oral health, it's best to limit or avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and sports drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Also, it's important to limit or avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can cause oral cancer and other oral health problems.

How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up?

The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and cleaning. However, the frequency of visits may vary depending on individual needs and risk factors, such as a history of cavities or gum disease. Your dentist can advise you on the appropriate schedule for check-ups and cleanings.

How can I maintain good oral hygiene while traveling?

Maintaining good oral hygiene while traveling can be challenging, but keeping up with your regular oral care routine as much as possible is essential. Pack a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, brush, floss, and rinse as you would at home.

What is Quality Oral Care?

Quality oral care is maintaining good oral health through regular dental hygiene and preventative measures. It's all about keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth in tip-top shape and ensuring that you have a bright and healthy smile by using the best oral care products.

It's important to understand that oral care isn't just about having shiny white teeth. It's about taking care of the overall health of your mouth. A healthy mouth is the foundation of a healthy body, as oral diseases have been linked to other health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Quality oral care begins with good oral hygiene practices such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and trying the best oral care products designed for your specific needs. You should also keep your toothbrush clean and replace it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Always remember that regular dental check-ups are also an essential part of quality oral care. A dentist can spot potential problems before they become severe and give you professional advice on improving your oral hygiene.

How Can using the Best Oral Care Products Benefit Me?

It’s all about matching the specifically formulated oral care products with your individual needs. That can mean finding a mouthwash for more sensitive teeth or an eco-friendly toothbrush that doesn’t cause your gums to get sore or bleed.

With so many items available in every grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station worldwide, picking out the best oral care products that are reliable and won’t break the piggy bank is challenging. That is why we created this list. To save you time and money from having to do the research yourself.

Wrapping it Up

As a dental professional with almost 9 years of experience in the industry, I am proud to have led our research in building this list. Our team is passionate about helping others find a healthy oral care routine. The list of best oral care products presented in this article has been carefully curated to provide you with a selection of high-quality products you can rely upon.

From toothbrushes and toothpaste to floss and mouthwash, this list has been chosen for its effectiveness, convenience, and eco-friendly features. So whether you're looking for a product to help freshen your breath, whiten your teeth, or reduce sensitivity, you'll find something on this list that can help.

If you have any questions or comments, be sure to post them below, especially if you have a suggestion, not on our list you think my team should investigate. Thank you for reading, and happy brushing!

About The Author:

Karen Nunez is a practicing oral health care professional based in Toronto, Canada;

She's passionate about helping her readers achieve optimum dental and oral health through her blog. Her posts are well-researched, engaging, and up-to-date.

13 Best Stain Removers for Teeth in 2023

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date July 3, 2023

Are you tired of hiding your smile due to stubborn teeth stains? Keeping your smile fresh and clean shouldn’t be such a hassle.

In this comprehensive guide, we have handpicked the 15 best stain removers for teeth to help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile. Say goodbye to unsightly brown or yellow spots and hello to a dazzling set of pearly whites.

Whether you're an avid coffee drinker, a red wine enthusiast, or simply struggling with the natural discoloration of teeth, it’s time to pick up the key stain removers that will boost your confidence and your oral health. Get ready to discover the ultimate solutions that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!

What Are the Top Stain Removers for Teeth?

We've scoured the market, dug deep into expert reviews, and tested countless products to bring you the ultimate list of the best stain removers for teeth. Say goodbye to lackluster smiles and hello to a newfound confidence that will turn heads wherever you go.

Let's talk about something we all struggle with at some point: teeth stains. We've all been there, wondering how to restore the brightness and luster of our teeth. Well, worry no more!

I've researched and compared numerous products, and now I'm excited to share my top recommendations with you. Say goodbye to those pesky stains and embrace a smile that truly shines. Let's jump right in and explore the crème de la crème of the best teeth-whitening products of 2023.

1. Dr. Jen’s WAVE at-home Whitening System – Best Overall

Say hello to a brighter, whiter smile with Dr. Jen's WAVE at-home Whitening System. This dual-action whitening treatment helps whiten your teeth and gums while also remineralizing and strengthening your enamel with its unique Nano-hydroxyapatite Super Paste.

Key Benefits

♦ Whitens stains safely and effectively

♦ Remineralizes enamel with 100% Nano-hydroxyapatite

♦ Designed for sensitive teeth, no sensitivity or irritation

Pricing

Priced at $189, with the option to make four interest-free payments of $47.25 through Afterpay.

Karen's Take

I like that it uses PAP+ which is a safe and effective alternative to peroxide. No worries about releasing free radicals during the process for fantastic whitening results. This a must-have at-home teeth whitening solution for your oral health.

Try Dr. Jen's Whitening

2. Snow Daily Whitening Toothpaste – Best for Sensitive Teeth

Designed with sensitive teeth in mind, Snow Daily Whitening Toothpaste provides a safe and effective solution for achieving a whiter and healthier smile. This whitening agent delivers professional results without compromising on the quality or variety of whitening ingredients.

Key Benefits:

♦ Whitens teeth effectively with recommended twice-daily usage

♦ Formulated to be gentle on tooth enamel

♦ Clean and safe ingredients, free from fluoride and sulfates

Pricing:

Snow Daily Whitening Toothpaste is available at $13.57 (discounted from $19.95). It's also offered in various pack sizes, such as 2 Pack, 4 Pack, and 6 Pack, providing options to suit your needs. Or choose to make four interest-free payments of $3.99 using their payment plan.

Karen's Take

While not a teeth-whitening gel, its focus on maintaining a white smile, coupled with its gentle formulation, makes it an ideal choice for sensitive teeth. This is a non-GMO, plant-based whitener that includes natural ingredients like licorice, coconut oil, lavender oil, and xylitol.

As xylitol is a natural sweetener found in plants, this acts as a fantastic method to improve the taste of the toothpaste, without causing tooth decay.

Try Snow Daily Whitening

3. Zimba Teet h White ning Strips Duo – Best for Travel

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips Duo offers a convenient and effective solution for dramatically whiter teeth. This can be used for in-office whitening to brighten teeth or as a part of your at-home whitening products. With a 30-minute treatment time, these deliciously flavored whitening strips immediately provide visible results and promise your brightest smile within just 14 days.

Key Benefits:

♦ Visible results after just one use

♦ Non-slip advanced grip formula

♦ Easy to use at home or on-the-go

Pricing

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips Duo is available for a one-time purchase of $45.00. For added convenience and savings, customers can choose the subscribe and save option, which offers a 20% discount, making each purchase $40.00.

Karen's Take

The ability to achieve visibly whiter teeth after just one use is a significant advantage, along with the reduced sensitivity formula that ensures a comfortable experience. However, I love the fact you can toss this in your purse and go anywhere you want.

Try Zimba Teeth Whitening

4 - VieBeauti Teeth Whitening Pen (3 Pack) – Most Convenient

VieBeauti Teeth Whitening Pen offers a convenient and effective solution for removing years of stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and more. With its natural mint flavor, this professional whitening pen provides fast results with just 1 minute of daily use.

The compact design and innovative twist mechanism make it travel-friendly and easy to use anytime, anywhere.

Key Benefits:

♦ Professional quality whitening at an affordable price

♦ Innovative tube design with a soft brush tip for precise application

♦ Convenient and travel-friendly for on-the-go whitening

Pricing

The VieBeauti Pen 3 Pack is priced at $19.99, with a regular price of $24.99.

Karen's Take

This is hands down the most straightforward tooth-whitening system on my list.

No complex instructions or lengthy processes. The compact design and twist mechanism make it easy to use on the go.

You know this is a quality product because the brand has over 1,400 5-star reviews from everyday users that want a brighter, whiter smile.

Try VieBeauti Teeth Whitening

5. Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets – Most Eco-Friendly

Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets offer an eco-friendly and fluoride-free approach to teeth whitening. These tablets come in a reusable glass jar and feature a fresh, natural mint flavor. They are designed to be a mess-free and convenient solution for white teeth at home and travel.

Key Benefits:

♦ Eco-friendly alternative to traditional toothpaste

♦ Fresh natural mint flavor for stains from teeth

♦ Liquid-free tablets for easy and mess-free usage

Pricing

The Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets are priced at $11.99 USD for a 60-tablet package.

Karen's Take

What I like most about this product is its eco-friendly features. Social awareness in shopping is a big benefit for me. These toothpaste tablets offer an environmentally conscious solution to oral care and come in a reusable glass jar.

Try Desesh Whitening Toothpaste

6 . SD Natural Blue + Red LED Kit Whitening + Gum Therapy – Best Tech

The SD Natural Blue + Red LED Kit Whitening + Gum Therapy is a professional-grade LED teeth whitening kit that combines blue and red LED light activation with a powerful gel formula. It offers visible results in just 20 minutes, providing up to 8 shades of whiter teeth in only five days.

We love that these products work because blue light has been scientifically proven to improve and increase the tooth whitening process.

Key Benefits:

♦ Professional blue + red LED light-activated whitening on the top and bottom

♦ Visible best results in 20 minutes

♦ Up to 8 shades of whiter teeth in 5 days using at-home teeth whitening products

Pricing

The SD Natural Blue + Red LED Kit Whitening + Gum Therapy is priced at $149.99 USD.

Karen's Take

The best thing about this teeth whitening option is that you can find the therapy system being used in many dentists' offices. This professional-grade teeth whitening kit offers a convenient and effective way to achieve visibly whiter teeth.

I love that the kit has a massive bottle that makes the refilling process much easier!

Try SD Whitening Kit

7 . Snow Strawberry Mojito Whitening Mouthwash – Best Tasting

Overview: Snow Strawberry Mojito Whitening Mouthwash is a flavor-improved mouthwash designed to make your teeth look gorgeous and freshen your breath. Formulated with natural ingredients, including aloe and hydrogen peroxide, it offers a gentle clean without the use of alcohol.

Key Benefits:

Tastes like a strawberry mojito

The alcohol-free formula for a gentle clean

Contains aloe and hydrogen peroxide for added benefits

Karen's Take

The Snow Strawberry Mojito Whitening Mouthwash is available in different pack sizes and pricing options. The one-time purchase price is $21.00, while the subscribe and save option offers a 15% discount.

Review: This type of teeth-whitening mouthwash provides a refreshing strawberry mojito flavor while helping to whiten teeth and improve oral hygiene. It is like getting a fresh island drink while improving your teeth color and a fantastic example of how whitening products work.

Try Snow Strawberry Mojito

8 . Zimba On-The-Go Whitening Kit – Best “At-Work” Solution

The Zimba On-The-Go Whitening Kit is designed to whiten teeth and boost your confidence wherever you are. The kit includes a Premium Teeth Whitening Pen, and a Whitening Accelerator LED Light.

You can use the Teeth Whitening Pen alone or combine it with the LED light for a faster and deeper teeth whitening experience.

Key Benefits:

Long-lasting whitening effects

Travel-friendly for convenience

Enamel safe formula

Pricing

The Zimba On-The-Go Whitening Kit is available for a one-time purchase at $40.00. Customers can also choose the subscribe and save option, which provides a 20% discount, bringing the price down to $32.00.

Karen's Take

This in-office whitening treatment kit offers the convenience of contact with your teeth anywhere, anytime. What's great is how compact the kit is. You can take this to work and quickly get in a session before returning from a lunch break.

Try Zimba On-The-Go

9 . Snow the Whitening Foam – Best Texture

Snow the Whitening Foam is an innovative and award-winning product that gently whitens teeth and helps clean dental devices like aligners, retainers, and night guards. It can be used as a daily gentle whitening toothpaste or to enhance the benefits of other SNOW® products.

Key Benefits:

Great products on the market you look for in a teeth solution

Contains hydroxyapatite and arginine to support enamel health

Can be left in trays overnight for gentle whitening and breath freshening to see the best results

Pricing

The Snow the Whitening Foam is available for a one-time purchase at $36.00. Customers can also choose the subscribe and save option, which provides a 15% discount, bringing the price down to $30.60.

Karen's Take

What is helpful about Snow is the versatility of its products. You can use this in different ways based on your unique schedule and needs. That eliminates the complexity of teeth whitening while giving you way more options.

Besides the cloud-like texture of the foam, this is also the only product on our list that is great to use as a cleaner for night retainers, mouthguards, and aligners.

Try Snow Whitening Foam

10 . SD Naturals Whitening Kit – Best to Use While Watching Movies

The SD Naturals Whitening Kit offers an easy-to-use tray-based home whitening solution that provides visible results in just 20 minutes. This professional-strength kit can whiten teeth by up to 6 shades in as few as five days without causing sensitivity issues.

Key Benefits:

Visible results in 20 minutes

Utilizes the same professional-strength gel used in dental offices

Includes 30 upper and lower tray applications or 300 brush applications

Pricing

The SD Naturals Whiteg Kit (Non-LED) is priced at $49.99 USD.

Karen's Take

Yup, I meant to write that superlative just like that! This is the kit you want if you are sitting at home ready for some Netflix and still want to get some tooth whitening on your schedule.

Try SD Naturals

11 . Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder – Best Whitening Powder

Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder is the world's first teeth-whitening sprinkle powder. It is designed to be applied on top of any toothpaste for an extra boost of whitening in just two minutes.

Key Benefits:

Adds instant whitening effects to any toothpaste

Gentle and delicious lavender and mint flavor

The shareable size lasts up to 6 months

Pricing

The Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder is available for a one-time purchase at $40.50. Subscribe and save option is also available, offering a 15% discount, with prices starting from $34.43.

Karen's Take

You really don't see too many powders anymore. What I like about this product is that you can grab a tin and add it to your favorite regular toothpaste without causing any harm or dealing with a complex system.

Try Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder

12 .SportingSmiles Whitening Trays – Most Diverse

SportingSmiles offers custom teeth whitening trays that provide an effective and convenient way to whiten teeth. The whitening trays are custom-made for optimal fit and comfort. They are available in kits for single individuals or couples, offering the erasure of teeth stains with foaming whitening gel.

Key Benefits:

Custom-made trays for optimal fit and comfort

Long-lasting reusability

Whitening gels available in 35% and 22% concentrations

The pricing varies depending on the specific kit and product chosen. You'll find anything from $12 to $25, depending on your needs.

Karen's Take

People with sporting background will recognize these products. You are putting in a tray that resembles a mouthguard and is tailored to the contour of your mouth.

Try Sporting Smiles

13 . Snow Advanced Vitamin Infused Whitening Toothpaste - Best Nutrients

Snow Advanced Infusions Whitening Toothpaste is a unique toothpaste that combines teeth-whitening properties with the infusion of amino acids, vitamins, and herbs. It comes in two formulas: Morning Formula and Nighttime Formula.

Key Benefits:

Provides brain and body benefits for an energetic start to the day

Contains CoQ10, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12 to support cognitive function and energy levels

Contains relaxing ingredients for a soothing evening routine

Includes magnesium, chamomile, and L-theanine for stress relief and to promote relaxation

Pricing

The pricing for Snow Advanced Vitamin Infused Whitening Toothpaste varies depending on the chosen options (Morning Formula, Nighttime Formula, or Both) and the pack size (2 Pack, 4 Pack, or 6 Pack).

Karen's Take

You get two different versions of a teeth whitening system based on the time of day and nutrients you wish to add to your body. What makes this whitening toothpaste so valuable is that it uses natural vitamins, amino acids, and herbs to strengthen your teeth enamel, boost your mornings, and calm your evenings.

Try Snow Advanced Vitamin

What Is a Tooth Stain Remover & Whitening Product?

A tooth stain remover is a product specifically designed to eliminate or reduce stains on the surface of the teeth. Various factors, such as food and beverages, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, and aging, can cause these stains.

Tooth stain removers employ different mechanisms, including abrasion, chemical action, or a combination of both, to remove or lighten stains and restore the natural whiteness of the teeth.

How Can a Teeth Whitening Kit Benefit You

Enhanced Appearance: Tooth stain removers make you look and feel better by boosting your self-esteem with a brighter, whiter smile.

Stain Prevention: For anyone that loves tea or a glass of red wine in the evening, having a solid tooth whitener ensures you avoid unwanted stain buildup.

Convenience and Affordability: Almost all of the products on this list are easy to purchase and afford, with international shipping rates that do not break the bank.

Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research

I frequently work in dental clinics and pop-up situations where I need to recommend all kinds of quality products. To uncover the best teeth whiteners, I tried to stick to a few rules:

Product Selection: Only focus on those products that I have heard and studied from my own practice and working with other dental professionals.

Evaluation of Features: Carefully examine each product for any special features you may want to hear about (hence the superlatives).

Comparative Analysis: Looking at competitors and reviews for pricing, features, benefits, and reputation of the business selling the products.

FAQ

How do you get deep stains off your teeth?

Deep stains on teeth may require professional dental treatments, such as professional teeth whitening or dental cleaning, or any of the over-the-counter teeth whitening products we have offered as our pick for the best options.

It is best to consult with a dentist who can assess the severity of the stains and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

What is the number one thing that stains your teeth?

The number one thing that commonly stains sensitive teeth and gums is dark-colored beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine. These beverages contain chromogens, pigmented compounds that can adhere to the enamel and cause staining over time.

Does hydrogen peroxide remove deep stains on teeth?

For that that have never whitened their teeth, hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient found in many teeth-whitening products.

It can help remove surface stains on teeth and lighten the overall shade. However, for deep stains, professional treatments may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

What happens if you leave hydrogen peroxide on teeth for too long?

Leaving hydrogen peroxide on teeth for an extended period can irritate the gums and cause tooth sensitivity.

It is essential to follow the instructions provided with the product and not exceed the recommended usage time to avoid any adverse effects.

Wrapping Up

Keeping your smile looking fantastic shouldn’t take a full team of dental professionals.

Hopefully, this list of the best teeth-whitening products to eliminate those pesky stains will be enough to give you the photo-ready smile you’ve always wanted. Thanks for reading!

About the Author

Karen currently is a practicing oral health care professional based in Alberta, Canada; and runs a blog where she writes a slew of articles to empower her readers to achieve optimum oral and dental health.

HOME Latest Post Oral Care

11 Best Travel Electric Toothbrush

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date February 16, 2023

Traveling is a fun and exciting experience, but it can also put a damper on our daily hygiene routines.

Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is essential, but lugging around a bulky toiletry bag full of too many accessories can be challenging.

This is where travel electric toothbrushes come in handy! These compact and portable electric toothbrushes make it easy to maintain an appropriate level of oral hygiene while on the go instead of a manual toothbrush head that won't quite do the trick.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel electric toothbrush options available today based on our expert research.

You’re sure to find an electric toothbrush that fits your travel needs and style, from electric toothbrushes with multiple brush heads to those electric toothbrushes with built-in charging cases.

Time to pack your bags, grab your cell phone charger, turn off the oven, and hit the road with one of our best travel electric toothbrushes safely stored away.

Toss your manual toothbrush in the waste bin and choose an electric toothbrush sure to boost your travel experience.

What are the Best Travel Electric Toothbrushes?

The best travel electric toothbrushes are those quality cleaning tools that do not require a ton of extra storage in your carry-on luggage or backpack.

Instead, these electric toothbrushes are an excellent balance of space and efficiency, so your teeth remain the sparkling foundation of your fantastic smile that manual toothbrush options cannot get.

There has been plenty of research on the power of electric toothbrushes, sometimes called smart toothbrushes, in preventing gum disease and gingivitis better than a manual toothbrush head.

That is why most veteran dentists and hygienists will suggest you brush at least twice a day with a smart toothbrush instead of a manual brush head version.

Having an easy-to-use electric toothbrush also helps boost your overall health and well-being.

If you do not have the best tooth-brushing habits, you may open yourself up to a higher risk of heart disease and other related issues. Instead, simply brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes a

day with the best electric toothbrushes, in the morning and at night, lowers these risks as well as gum inflammation, tooth damage, and plenty of other dental health concerns.

Let’s get into the list of the best electric toothbrush options that ensure your health stays optimal and you’re not spending hours waiting for a massive toiletry bag to come down the baggage claim on your next trip.

The Best Travel Electric Toothbrushes

1. BLU Smart Toothbrush & App (White Rose) – Editor’s Choice

BLU created a revolutionary travel electric toothbrush that offers comprehensive control via a smartphone or tablet application. This way, you never miss any hard-to-reach spots and maintain a healthy, dentist-recommended brushing routine with a replaceable brush head. With a clean design and smooth grip, you’ll never travel anywhere without this great electric toothbrush.

Product Features:

App-controlled brushing suggestions ensure the electric brush covers all your teeth.

A battery-operated toothbrush works with both adults and kids to develop healthy brushing habits.

Uses five customizable brushing modes for extra whitening or sensitive teeth.

Available in different colors and sizes based on your family's needs.

The perfect electric toothbrush app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Pricing:

The total cost of the BLU system is $99.99, with an interest-free installment plan of 4 payments totaling $24.99 each.

The real advantage of this travel electric toothbrush is the app. You get an easy-to-pack travel stand, toothbrush, and surefire way to improve your dental health.

2. Mode Electric Toothbrush – Best International Travel

This is a sleek and refined design for your travel electric toothbrush shopping list. What makes it so unique is that you don’t need a stand to charge the battery-powered toothbrush. Instead, it plugs into a wall socket, so your counter space stays nice and open. That is a massive benefit when you are traveling in smaller hotels or visiting friends in international territories compared to other electric toothbrushes.

Product Features:

Improves your gum health up to 7 times faster than manual toothbrushes in 2 weeks or less.

An excellent powered toothbrush for preventing and reducing any cases of gingivitis.

Gets into those tiny areas between teeth and at the gumline.

A battery-powered electric toothbrush uses a wireless charging dock with a built-in nightlight.

Get up to 30 days of battery life on a single charge – perfect for traveling.

Pricing:

If you’re making a one-time purchase, you can expect a price of $165. However, you’ll save money by doing a subscribe and save option where you get a refill brush head every 3 months for $10 at a purchase price of $150.

With extended battery life and a wall-applicable charging base, we highly suggest this travel rechargeable electric toothbrush for people on longer trips or visiting smaller destination spaces like Airbnb.

3. Better & Better Bamboo Sonic Toothbrush – Most Eco-Friendly

For those readers that prefer a more eco-friendly travel electric toothbrush, we recommend the bamboo rechargeable electric toothbrush option from Better & Better. This comfortable option is made with bamboo a replacement brush head that is sourced cruelty-free and offers those preferring a more vegan lifestyle to get the professional brushing experience they desire.

Product Features:

Uses a 2-minute timer with 5 cleaning modes to ensure a quality habit.

Incredibly soft bristles on the brush head for those with sensitivity in the teeth and gums.

These electric toothbrushes use far less plastic than most other options, so you have less landfill waste.

Mix and match electric brush modes to get a tailored made experience for your specific needs.

Do your part for the planet by reducing our reliance on heavy chemicals and plastic found in other electric toothbrushes.

Pricing:

You can pick up this well-crafted best electric toothbrush for $69.99 as a one-time purchase. Or you can subscribe and save 20% by getting new brush head refills sent to

your doorstep every two months by spending $55.99.

It is a pretty amazing time to live when you can get a quality made electric toothbrush made from eco-friendly materials that don’t sacrifice how detailed your good brushing habits need to be. We highly recommend the subscribe and save option for this product.

4.PerioSciences LED2 Electric Toothbrush – Best Technology Innovation

Many “best of” lists rely on gimmicks to get you to click, but we prefer a bit more research and verification. That is why we suggest you check out a study that confirms how LED electric toothbrushes can improve your regular brushing routine. This PerioScience option ensures you get an easy-to-use travel companion to a healthier and brighter smile!

Key Benefits

Uses a mixture of blue and red LED lights to amplify your cleaning capabilities.

Combines LED lights with gentle and effective sonic speeds.

Comes with 4 unique brushing modes, so you develop the brushing habits you want.

Uses a small charging stand that easily fits into any carry-on luggage.

Has a modern design with a smooth grip handle that reduces any slippage.

Pricing

This is a little on the pricier side at $135, but you do have a little bit, as all orders offer free shipping. That offer includes 2 additional toothbrush heads, so you’ll get a lot longer cleaning period, even at that price point.

At 34,000 to 39,000 brush strokes per minute and the benefit of LED lighting, this is one of the better solutions for those with sensitive teeth wanting a more comprehensive cleaning. Be sure to check out the research we linked above if this is a new area of tech you may not have heard of before.

5 . Snow LED Whitening Electric Toothbrush – Best for Brighter Teeth

This is a 2022 New Beauty Award-winning travel electric toothbrush that also uses new LED technology. It is designed not just for quality cleaning, but also for the many whitening benefits you need when dealing with years of stains or yellowing. The stand is slightly larger than others on our list but still more than compact enough for jet-setting to Bermuda or the Bahamas (insert Beach Boys song here!).

Key Benefits

Uses both advanced sonic and LED technology for cleaning, polishing, and whitening.

Has customizable timers with 30-second intervals for building a good brushing habit.

You can also purchase the Snow Face Brush attachment that uses the same base, cutting down even more on travel accessories.

Comes with 2 additional LED brush heads at a $22 value.

You can save a bit if you check out the promotions and available bundles from Snow.

Pricing

If you are picking up the electric travel toothbrush by itself, you can make a one-time purchase of $99. That includes the option to join the Confidence Club at $19.99 per month, which will save you some money. Otherwise, depending on the current promotions, you’ll be looking at a range of $99-$149. You can also make interest-free payments using AfterPay.

Snow is a well-known industry leader in quality made dental hygiene solutions. They are a massive business running all kinds of money-saving coupons and promotions, so you may want to sign up for their email list before purchasing and see if they send you a way to cut down the price tag of this best travel electric toothbrush.

6 – CariPro Electric Toothbrush (Individual Package) – Best Battery Value

We love cariPro! This is a company that has been celebrated in Forbes magazine as well as on Fox station affiliates. It is FDA registered and a proud partner5 of GEHA, offering a comprehensive solution to getting the dental health you need whether skiing the Alps in Switzerland or scuba diving off the coast of Greece.

Product Features:

5 unique brush modes to clean, whiten, and massage your teeth and gum line.

Has a long-lasting 30-day battery life available on a full charge for longer traveling.

Uses an ergonomic non-slip design to the handle that reduces the chances of you dropping the electric toothbrush.

Comes equipped with an auto-interval smart timer for even and timed brushing.

The charging dock is relatively small and wireless, which fits most counter and sink tops.

Pricing:

We looked at the individual package starting at $54.00. That includes a 2-year limited warranty and a 60-day trial. They were running a promotion when we looked. Otherwise, the price would be $119.

You get the electric toothbrush, 2 premium replacement heads with built-in tongue scrapers,

DuPont bristles, and the charging dock. That is an excellent value for the reduced price tag. You can use the saved money on an extra meal on your next vacation!

7 – Izzo Oral Care Kit – Best Accessories

Normally, we wouldn’t suggest a complex kit for a travel accessory, but this is well-designed and compact that you can easily fit into any luggage or carry-on. This electric toothbrush easily flips between brushing tiny crevices to polishing teeth surfaces. The idea is to model a dental kit your local provider would use but in modern and sleek at-home designs.

Product Features:

Comes complete with a power handle, oscillating brush head, polishing head, scaler, UVC sanitizing case, and 2-port wall charger.

It can be plugged in on the wall or using a base, providing a lot of versatility when traveling.

Fantastic design with a modern twist adds a sense of luxury to cleaning.

Uses an advanced scaler for getting any tough stains or food debris.

Ensure you have an advanced method of staying healthy on the road.

Pricing:

The Izzo kit can be entirely purchased for a one-time payment of $129.95. Or you can use the subscribe and save option with different delivery selections for getting fresh brush heads and polishing paste. These are in addition to the base price.

While Izzo is defiantly more marketing-friendly for those modern-day consumers, we do think the quality of the electric toothbrush cleaning tools will deliver each time you take them out of your travel case.

8 – BluKids Electric Toothbrush – Fun for Kids

Not all our products target those with the most frequent flyer miles. Keeping healthy teeth isn’t just for parents. Plenty of kids can benefit from the exceptional clean of a travel electric toothbrush, and that is precisely what Blu offers. You get all the power of the adult versions of these toothbrushes in a smaller form factor with fun colors and designs.

Product Features:

Works with the Blu app so parents can monitor their kiddo’s brushing habits as they develop.

Available in blue or pink handle colors with a fun “tooth-like” monster on the front.

Parents also get a custom notification via text or email showing if their kids missed any brushing sessions.

In-app brushing coach that works based on the latest dentist recommendations.

Visual aids help teach parents and kids the best way to keep teeth clean.

Pricing:

At a reasonable $49.99 for a one-time purchase, this is a highly beneficial solution to improving your child’s dental health. There is also an option to pay in 4 interest-free installments.

Give your kids the gift of a travel electric toothbrush built for their tiny mouths, and check out the latest innovations from the team at Blu today!

9 – Desesh Bamboo Electric Toothbrush – Best “Off Grid” Option

There are a few different quality eco-friendly electric toothbrushes available we like to check out every now and then, and Desesh is always at the top of our team’s suggestions. This combines sonic cleaning power with biodegradable and replaceable bamboo heads (except for charcoal nylon bristles).

Product Features:

Comes with a USB charging cable that easily fits into the most airport, train, and bus terminal stations.

Every order includes 3 charcoal heads, so you don’t have to reorder too quickly.

There are 5 unique cleaning settings/modes that ensure you get a comprehensive solution.

Shop worry-free with eco-friendly and biodegradable materials.

Softer bristles are designed to help those with more sensitive teeth or gums.

Pricing:

You can purchase the set for $69.99 or use the 4 interest-free installments of $17.49. New accessories will be onboarded this year!

We want to point out the simplicity of the handle design for this travel electric toothbrush. Many of the other options have complex controls, but you can get away with a single button on this brush.

10 – Wellbeing Island Kids Electric Musical Toothbrush Buzzy Brush – Best for Toddlers

Kid-friendly options are not enough if those younger consumers are in the 7-14 range. That is why

we added the Buzzy Brush to our list because it targets those younger in the 3-7 age range. This combines a vibrating/pulsing routine with fun music and a small rotating brush head that is easy to grip with smaller hands.

Product Features:

Easy to replace brush heads for when your kiddos go a little too rough on their dental hygiene.

Includes additional stickers that allow your child to customize the look electric toothbrush.

The LED light uses 3 different colors to signal client brushing, brush to instructions, and sing-along modes.

There is a 2-minute auto-shut-off option to signal when your kids are done.

Wellbeing Island put a small screw on the battery compartment for added safety.

Pricing:

You get a solid travel electric toothbrush for only $29.95 that is fun and interactive for your kids to enjoy.

We love the musical aspect of this electric toothbrush design. It brings a playful element to a routine activity some kids may have associated with fear due to a less-than-desirable dentist visit.

11 – Oclean X Pro Elite Smart Sonic Toothbrush – Best Silent Electric Toothbrush

If you prefer a more inclusive solution to your travel electric toothbrush needs, we suggest the Oclean X Pro. This built-in touchscreen gives your brushing score, brushing time, and blind zone reminders for every cleaning session you utilize. There is even an interactive element with auto-wake capabilities to provide you with far more control when on the road.

Product Features:

The tiny screen is designed with a built-in 6-axis gyroscope to adapt to your brushing style.

Available with plenty of mode options tailored to your unique needs.

Exceptionally quiet design factors make this the electric toothbrush of choice if traveling with a partner.

Uses DuPont diamond bristles to clear away tea and smoking stains.

Has an AI that uses self-adjusting brush strokes and frequency reduction.

Pricing:

Ocelan keeps it simple at a one-time price of $99.99. There are also plenty of accessories for additional costs available on their website.

All in all, this is the travel electric toothbrush of choice for those that want complete personalization in their dental cleaning routines.

Wrapping it Up

An electric toothbrush is an essential item for anyone who values oral hygiene, especially while traveling. With the numerous options available on the market, it's crucial to consider factors such as battery life, compactness, and effective cleaning power when making your choice.

The options mentioned in this article provide a comprehensive list of the best travel electric toothbrushes that cater to various needs and preferences.

Whether you're a frequent traveler or just planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, having a reliable electric toothbrush will ensure you arrive at your destination with a bright, clean smile and a refreshed feeling.

So, choose wisely, pack your toothbrush, and confidently hit the road for your next adventure!

HEALTH CARE DISCLAIMER:

The provision of medical/dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment by this site or its services is expressly disclaimed. Always discuss your medical/dental needs specifically with your healthcare practitioner while seeking a diagnosis or receiving treatment. Please get in touch with a licensed medical /medical practitioner right if you have or believe you have a medical ailment or problem.

HOME KIDS Nutrition Oral Care

45 Best Oral Care Products in 2023

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date January 27, 2023

Readers support us. We could receive a commission if you make a purchase using our link at no extra cost to you. Read our disclaimer here.

Do you want to avoid wasting your time trying out a plethora of dental care products that have little to no effect despite overblown marketing claims? The top oral care products now available on the market have been compiled by our staff into a superb list.

From electronic toothbrushes to deep-cleaning tubes of toothpaste, we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive list includes well-known brands as well as those up-and-coming options we think significantly boost your oral health, so you can find the best match for your oral care routine.

Imagine walking into the office with a brighter, healthier smile without any of the guesswork of trying multiple products. Or lowering the risk of strokes, heart disease, and more potential problems often made worse by poor dental health. Our list will help you achieve that and more.

Don’t waste any more time or money on subpar oral care products. Read on to view our list of the best oral care products in 2023 and get the fantastic smile you deserve.

What Are the Best Oral Care Products?

Our professional team believes a healthy and stunning smile is essential to a rewarding quality of life. That is why our dedicated researchers have gone out to read the reviews, test the products, and uncover the relevant data behind our extensive oral care list. We always want to provide the highest quality items to our readers. Our process involves:

Research: we gather information on the latest trends, ingredients, and technologies used in oral care products.
Consulting: we speak with dentists and other oral care professionals to get their professional opinions on the products.
Review: we consider the feedback from real customers who have used the products.

By following these simple steps, we best ensure the top oral care products to you, our valued readers. We will be updating this article throughout the year to add, remove, and adjust the placement of the products we recommend so you have a reliable resource whenever you need a specific oral care product. Let’s dive into our list of the best oral care products on the market right now.

Snow Whitening Kits

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Blu smart Toothbrush

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Vegan Started Kit

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

cari Pro Water Flosser

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

CariPro Nightguard Cleaner

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Boost your self confidence with a whitening gel that is formulated by a dentist. Smile like you have never smiled before!

Snow Arctic frost teeth whitening

Never miss a spot when you brush! Get healthier and cleaner teeth and gums with this app enabled amazing sonic toothbrush.

Better and better Bamboo Toothbrush

Elevate your oral health with vitamin infused toothpaste. Vitamin D3 and B12 makes you teeth and whole body better and better!

Dr. Tung's Stainless steel Tongue Cleaner

Experience the health benefits and cost savings of a premium water flosser delivered to your door!

Coco Stripes Vegan Class

Say goodbye to bacteria on your night guard/ retainers/ dentures! This is an ultrasonic cleaner that does the cleaning for you in 5 minutes.

Electric Toothbrushes

1. Blu Smart Toothbrush & App

2. SNOW LED whitening Electric Toothbrush

Voted the 2022 Best Toothbrush of the Year, this electric device uses a combination of blue LED light for added whitening with sonic technology to give you a brilliant smile. With 4 unique brushing modes, you get a welcome power cleaner for your oral health.

3. Better and Better Bamboo Toothbrush

This bamboo electronic toothbrush uses sonic technology to ensure complete cleaning through your brushing journey. It has 5 different cleaning modes and an ergonomic feel in your hand that elevate your oral routine with a sense of luxury.

4. cariPRO Electric Toothbrush

5 – Desesh bamboo Electric Toothbrush

For the more eco-friendly readers in our audience, we present the Desesh electric toothbrush made from premium bamboo wood. The biodegradable and replaced heads include 5 cleaning settings and are easy to toss out once you remove the charcoal nylon bristles first

6 – O’Smiler Original Electronic Sonic Toothbrush

Ready for something unique? This powerful electronic toothbrush gives you the in-depth cleaning you need, and the bone conduction allows you to play your favorite music through your teeth! That is a fantastic way to develop long-term positive routines.

7 – Dr. Brite Sonic Toothbrush

Water Flossers

1 – Snow Water Flosser

2 – cariPRO Cordless Water Flosser

3 – Dr. Brite Water Flosser

Whitening Products

There are quite a few different varieties of whitening products, so we broke this category into specific lists for your oral care benefit.

WHITENING TRAYS/KITS

1 – Snow Teeth Whitening Kits

2 –Smile Brilliant Teeth Whitening Trays

3 – Glo Brilliant Advanced White Smile

4 –Zimba Essential Whitening Kit

5 – Smile Sciences Original Teeth Whitening Kit

6 –Perio Sciences Teeth Whitening Bundle

7 – Dr. Brite Wireless Advanced Whitening System

WHITENING PENS/SERUMS

1 – Snow Extra Strength Whitening Serum

2 – Smile Brilliant Desensitizing Gel

3 –VIE BEAUTI TEETH WHITENING PEN

4 – Dr. Brite Teeth Whitening Pens

WHITENING MOUTHWASH/FOAMS/POWDERS

1 – Snow Arctic Frost Teeth Whitening Mouthwash

2 – Snow Whitening Foam

3 –Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Powder

WHITENING STRIPS

1 – Snow Magic Teeth Whitening Strips

2 – Zimba Whitening Strips

Dental Stain Concealer

1 – Night Out Dental Stain Concealer

Remineralization Gel

1 – cariPRO Enamel Armour

Sensitivity Relief Kit

1 – Dr. Brite Senstivity Relief Oral Care Kit

Energy Starter Set

1 – Better & Better Energy Starter Set

Save 10% On Your First Toothpaste Purchase

Healthy Gums Kit

1 – Dr. Brite Healthy Gums Oral Care Kit

Retainer Cleaner

1 – carPRO Ultrasonic Cleaner

Retainer Cleaning Tablets

1 – cariPRO Retainer Cleaner

Toothpaste

1 – Dr. Brite Anti-Plaque Toothpaste

2 – Perio Sciences Toothpaste

3 – SD Total Care Toothpaste

Mouthwash

1 – Perio Sciences Rinse

2 – SD Total Care Mouthwash

Toothpaste Tablets – Eco Friendly

1 – Desesh Whitening Toothpaste Tablets

Vegan/Eco-Friendly Floss

1 – Coco Stripes Vegan Floss

This vegan floss makes your dental care green and maintains a stunning smile. It is carefully crafted from corn and has a candelilla wax coating with a light mint flavor that makes it 100% natural.

2 – Dr. Tung’s Activated Charcoal Floss

Bamboo Toothbrush

Bamboo is a highly sustainable and renewable resource. It proliferates and doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizers. They are often made from sustainable and ethically sourced materials, making them a more ethical choice than traditional plastic toothbrushes. These are a comfortable and durable solution to your brushing routine that doesn’t break the bank whenever you need a resupply.

1 – Orthomechanic Bamboo Toothbrush Set

2 – Coco Stripes Bamboo Toothbrush for Adults

Tongue Cleaner

1 – Dr. Tung’s Stainless Steel Tongue Cleaner

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best practices for maintaining good oral hygiene?

The best practices for maintaining good oral hygiene include brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

How often should I brush and floss my teeth?

Is it necessary to use mouthwash as part of my oral care routine?

While mouthwash is not strictly necessary for oral care, it can be beneficial as it can help freshen breath, kill germs, reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.

Are there any particular foods or drinks that I should avoid for optimal oral health?

To maintain optimal oral health, it’s best to limit or avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and sports drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Also, it’s important to limit or avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can cause oral cancer and other oral health problems.

How often should I visit the dentist for a check-up?

How can I maintain good oral hygiene while traveling?

What is Quality Oral Care?

Quality oral care is maintaining good oral health through regular dental hygiene and preventative measures. It’s all about keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth in tip-top shape and ensuring that you have a bright and healthy smile by using the best oral care products.

It’s important to understand that oral care isn’t just about having shiny white teeth. It’s about taking care of the overall health of your mouth. A healthy mouth is the foundation of a healthy body, as oral diseases have been linked to other health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

How Can using the Best Oral Care Products Benefit Me?

Wrapping it Up

From toothbrushes and toothpaste to floss and mouthwash, this list has been chosen for its effectiveness, convenience, and eco-friendly features. So whether you’re looking for a product to help freshen your breath, whiten your teeth, or reduce sensitivity, you’ll find something on this list that can help.

About The Author:

Karen Nunez is a practicing oral health care professional based in Toronto, Canada;

She’s passionate in helping her readers achieve optimum dental and oral health through her blog. Her posts are well-researched, engaging and are up-to-date.

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The Top Benefits of Teledentistry and How it Improves Patient Access

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date August 21, 2022

Every day we see more and more technology implemented into our lives. It’s transforming how we shop, how we socialize, and even how we learn. But what about how we access healthcare?

The digital age is changing the way that people receive care by making it more accessible and convenient than ever before. Teledentistry is the latest addition to this revolutionary movement. While many are unfamiliar with the term, once you understand its benefits, you will likely ask your dental provider if they offer the service.

What is Teledentistry?

Teledentistry is the use of virtual meetings and live video conferencing to provide dental care. It is a relatively new practice that allows patients to see and be seen by a dentist through modern communication technology. This means that there are no longer any travel or scheduling issues for patients who live in rural areas.

The goal is to improve access to dental care for any individual or family living in a rural area or experiencing some other cause (disability, health, age, etc.) that negates their ability to see a dentist face to face. With so many advances in online communication and the mass adoption of these new services because of the global pandemic, it has become easier than ever to engage in teledentistry.

Is Teledentistry like Telemedicine?

The answer is no. While both share the concept of distance-based care, teledentistry has a specialized focus on the treatment of oral health disorders. Telemedicine is more of a generalized term. Like most things in healthcare, being specific is important for insurance providers, patient care, and the training/education of healthcare providers

This may seem like an arbitrary distinction at first glance, but it serves an important function. It allows doctors to more easily refer patients who might need additional care outside their area of expertise or beyond their office’s capabilities back to their regular dentist.

What are the Dentistry Perceptions of Teledentistry?

Dentists are concerned about the quality of care their patients are receiving. Dentistry is a highly specialized field, and it takes years of education and experience to master the art of oral health. There are questions about privacy and quality of care. As more people start using teledentistry (including remote video visits), there will be an increasing need for high-quality security measures to protect patient information from hackers and other cybercriminals.

There are still debates happening about legislating the regulation of teledentistry to ensure a patient is receiving the care they require. This is primarily around synchronous vs. asynchronous teledentistry. That would be real-time, interactive consultation through digital means compared to using captured images and videos to review materials.

Was Covid the Cause of Teledentistry?

The quick answer is no. Teledentistry was around before the global pandemic. However, it is important to point out that the repercussions of so many families not leaving their homes or canceling visits with healthcare providers led to the mass adaptation of online communication.

Dentists wanted to provide quality access to care via video conferencing, and this has only helped those patients who live in rural areas or may not usually get to a dentist for routine care.

The Benefits of Teledentistry

Teledentistry can be a game-changer for many people. It improves access to care, reduces costs, provides services to disadvantaged children, increases the availability of specialists and other professionals, and is less intimidating than visiting a traditional dental office. For people with disabilities or phobias about going to the dentist (or their own fear of needles), these advantages are particularly important. The benefits include:

Improve Access to Dental Care

Teledentistry can potentially improve access to dental care for patients in rural and urban areas with a limited number of dentists. It can also be used to connect specialized dental services to people with disabilities.

While there has been an excellent outreach of incoming dentists in Canada, the need to target farmland and rural areas with not as many services has only accelerated. Leveraging the power of teledentistry will improve the overall oral health of those who do not have the resources or time for in-person visits.

More Affordable Dental Care

Teledentistry reduces the cost of travel for patients and their families. With teledentistry, patients can have their dental care done remotely with a dentist in another location. There is no need for specialized tools or single-use equipment to be utilized during the visit. Everything is done remotely so a dentist can get a better impression of the care a patient may need and then offer advice and diagnosis for further steps.

Targeting Disadvantaged Children

Teledentistry’s services also extend to disadvantaged children. A recent study showed that children with disabilities face a higher risk of developing chronic health problems than their non-disabled peers. They are also less likely to receive proper dental care, putting them at risk for more severe oral hygiene issues later in life. Teledentistry can help these kids by giving them access to high-quality dental care when they’re young. These preventative measures can be and should be taken before it’s too late.

Greater Insight from Specialists

Dental care is all about the patient experience, which includes accessibility. There are many times when a dentist may not have the specialist he or she feels would be ideal for the patient’s case. This could be due to availability, location, or even financial reasons. However, teledentistry allows dentists to connect with specialists who can then offer their opinion and treatment plans via video conference.

This gives patients more options and flexibility in obtaining the best possible care they need while also saving them time and money on travel costs and missed workdays by having appointments done remotely through video conferencing.

Easing Fear & Stress

Visiting a dentist online is less intimidating than sitting in a dentist’s chair. Teledentistry delivers a level of comfort and convenience that traditional dental offices can’t offer. It’s also less scary for children, who are often afraid of dental visits because it involves getting poked and prodded with sharp objects. Teledentistry removes all these fears by making procedures seem more like video games than medical visits.

Greater Access for Disabled Patients

Dentists can provide care for people with disabilities and the elderly in a way that is more accessible for them. The ability to deliver care remotely through video conferencing is one of the most significant benefits of teledentistry. It gives people with different needs better access to dental providers. For example, video conferencing allows patients who are in wheelchairs or have other mobility issues an opportunity to see the dentist without having to leave their homes.

Easy to Schedule

If a patient has an oral emergency during their shift at work, they can schedule an appointment immediately after work rather than having to wait until Monday morning when they have time off from work.

Teledentistry opens up time outside the typical 9-5 banking hours of the work week. It enables many full-time and professional workers to get routine checkups. The more access this provides, the greater the impact on lowering overall dental needs because everyone is getting preventative care.

Better for the Dental Practice

Another benefit of teledentistry is that it frees up your dentist’s time. Dentists can spend more time with patients, more time on clinical work, more time on education, and more time on research. They can also use their freed-up time to advocate for new patient access models and technologies.

With the right technology in place and a clear understanding of what you want from your dental practice, you can be sure that each visit will be productive for both you as well as your dentist or hygienist.

Elevating Oral Hygiene Awareness

An often overlooked benefit of teledentistry is that when you improve access to dental care, you also enhance oral hygiene education. With a broader audience of patients to serve, there is a greater opportunity to educate those that may be misinformed or not have any idea of best practices for routine maintenance and health.

Education has always been the silver bullet to improving a community. That should be the same for any topic, including elevating the overall oral hygiene of a population because more people are able to get their questions answered and instructed on the best practices available.

What are the Challenges of Teledentistry?

As with any new technology, there are a few challenges that must be overcome before teledentistry can become the norm. It is definitely true that there is less in-person care, which could harm patient outcomes in the long run. This is probably the most critical factor oversight groups are paying close attention to right now. As long as teledentistry can offer quality patient care, it will stay around.

The other major challenge is access to internet services. During the global pandemic, many schools that shut down realized their students lived in areas without internet access. This primarily affected rural patients who either could not afford network connections or did not have an available service provider.

As teledentistry expands to more areas of the world, there will most likely be more emphasis on developing networks for more rural living spaces.

How Teledentistry Improves Rural Access

The best solution teledentistry offers rural patients is that it can enable patients to avoid long travel times and out-of-pocket costs associated with visiting a dentist’s office. It also provides an opportunity for dental students or other professionals who are currently located in rural areas to obtain needed training from specialists located elsewhere (e.g., at academic teaching hospitals).

In addition, teledentistry may provide more opportunities for dentists working in isolated locations to work collaboratively with colleagues who live in larger cities or other hubs of health care services and research. This collaboration can help create new knowledge about how best to treat certain conditions and provide better care overall for patients across the country.

It comes down to ease of access for both patients and working dental professionals. The greater the ability to access information, the higher skilled and educated the population becomes. This lowers the barriers for new dentists seeking a pathway to a lucrative career as well.

What is the Future of Teledentistry?

As this technology is integrated into daily life, you can expect app development and mobile use cases to rapidly expand. Dental practices will begin offering bespoke services via a unique mobile platform just for their location. That way, you could be on your way to a meeting via ride-sharing and get a quick checkup in the backseat.

Again, all of these developments will have to be aligned with quality patient care so the benefits of teledentistry do not overshadow the treatment received. Anytime there is a cost-effective solution to a problem, it has staying power in the public parlance. That is why teledentistry is not likely to go anywhere anytime soon. Better access to medical providers at lower costs seems like an excellent step forward, especially for those that may have never had the chance to see a dentist before.

Conclusion

Teledentistry has many advantages, and it is crucial to understand how it can help patients. While there are some obstacles that need to be overcome, these solutions will likely lead to an increase in the use of teledentistry in both urban and rural areas. As younger dentists come online by getting their practices approved, we can expect to see greater access and treatment possibilities for quality dental care all over Canada and the rest of the world.

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Transforming the Future of Canadian Dentistry with Internationally Trained Dentists

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date July 8, 2022

Internationally trained dentists (ITD) must overcome significant barriers to becoming qualified and licensed dentists working in Canada. That includes massive piles of verifiable documents, thousands of dollars, and numerous highly challenging exams.

This entire equivalency process is also hard to understand, especially for those immigrants that are still learning the language or are unused to information gathering in a new country.

That is why organizations designed to help ITDs along their journey are necessary to improve our country’s dental and oral health.

There is a bigger goal that often gets overlooked, and that is unifying the many international students, immigrants, and working professionals focused on improving not only the lives of their families with a lucrative career but the social needs of Canadians by providing an essential service.

To that end, we had the unique opportunity to meet with Dr. Luca Salvador, founder of the Internationally Trained Dentists Association of Canada (ITDAOC).

Since March of 2021, this organization has focused on providing fair and equal representation for ITDs, offering helpful guidance, and remaining an outstanding advocate for improving the equivalency process.

Dr. Salvador received his HBSc from the University of Toronto in 2013 and was awarded his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Poznan University of Medical Sciences in 2018. This places him in a unique gray area of Canadian dental regulation as his primary degree is from a Canadian school while his doctorate is from Poland.

We discussed the future of ITDs and general oral health in Canada and how the equivalency process should be transformed to ensure a brighter future for the country.

A Long & Expensive Process

It helps to understand a bit about ITD equivalency programs. At its core, the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) created the equivalency process for those international dentists with education, experience, or training. The idea was to get all dentists working in Canada to the same baseline of practice standards.

This is a valid concern as no one wants to interact with a dentist who is not qualified to perform operations, cleanings, or other procedures. The problem is this process is highly cost-preventative and often extremely confusing to the average ITD.

Add on top of that the immigration process, and you have a recipe that prevents more highly qualified dentists than it helps.

“If it costs $100,000 CAD or more to undertake the equivalency process and you know you are looking at a historical passing return of roughly 40%,” says Dr. Salvador, “then that is significantly below what it should be. Our goal is to encourage regulators to validate our equivalency exams using Canadian graduates.”

This is a strong argument about the NDEB equivalency process because the current belief is that 100% of Canadian dental school graduates could pass the same exams given to ITDs. Dr. Salvador and his organization have a simple ask to these regulators – prove it.

If the belief is that Canadian dental school graduates can pass these same exams without preparation, then all the ITDAOC is asking for is validation.

That is currently the vision of the short-term goals of this organization, to transform the equivalency process so it is more welcoming, cost-effective, and realistic for the backgrounds of those ITDs that apply and painstakingly pass through to the other side.

A Question of Immigration

While the short-term goals may be to update the NDEB equivalency process, the longer-term issues surround the regulation of immigration concerning dentists. There is a shortage of skilled labor for dentists in Canada.

There are roughly 12,000 job openings expected in dentistry from now until 2028, and only about 7,000 available students and trained individuals to fill them. That leaves a massive service gap, especially for rural or hard-to-reach communities.

In the meantime, you have a long line of trained individuals highly motivated to make the jump to Canadian citizenship. Canada has one of the better international reputations for immigration, but that does not mean it cannot be improved, especially in an area concerning a high-in-demand technical skill requiring specific knowledge.

“There are thousands of internationally trained dentists in Canada right now,” continues Dr. Salvador. “We’re ready to work, but can’t. So the issue is how to address the regulatory barriers preventing our forward progression as well as the self-regulation question.”

This is, again, a valid point. Most of the mechanisms in place to hold organizations like the NDEB accountable are critical and require experts in dentistry to set the rules, not those without any experience. There needs to be a check and balance on the regulators in charge of the equivalency process.

“We give them credit for recent positive developments,” says Dr. Salvador, “but more needs to be done so ITDs are given a fair opportunity to improve Canadian society.”

One of these improvements is a proposal that the new NDECC exam, a highly reliant skills component and bespoke situational judgment component, be separated into two entities. This way, if you pass one and fail the other, you are only forced to retake the other.

The Question of Cost & Awareness

ITDs are asking for fair treatment because the perception is that they are treated as something less. A good example of this was the recent global pandemic during which many equivalency exams were canceled. On the whole, the NDEB did a good job of ensuring the flow of qualified dentists through the process, except for ITDs.

Dental schools would not allow ITDs to use their facilities for the ACS exams. This could be outside of the NDEB’s control, but that resulted in a significant drop in qualified ITDs that could then progress through the process and start serving Canadian communities.

Every time there is a delay to the equivalency process, it costs those ITDs hundreds to thousands of dollars. These are individuals living in a country where they most likely do not have local support, a high-paying job, or the resources to recover from such setbacks.

If the goal of the Canadian government is to bring more services to citizens in all provinces, it only makes sense to make the process of ITDs smoother. Any failed exam due to improper design or elements beyond an ITDs control wastes thousands of dollars and months of their lives.

“Many competent dentists fail when they shouldn’t have,” continues Dr. Salvador. “That extends their process by months, if not years, and costs them thousands of dollars.

This is a big issue that has not been addressed in a satisfactory way yet. There are gaps in supplying us with information to validate what they are telling us. There should be fairness in the equivalency process because it is a challenging journey for all to undergo this series of exams.”

The problem here is representation. At many planning meetings and annual reviews, the only people allowed in the room are from the NDEB or supporting organizations like the Federation of the Canadian Dental Students Association (FCDSA). Other groups, like Dr. Salvador’s, are often excluded from the meeting rooms.

This breakdown in transparency fosters apprehension and mistrust that there is an authentic effort to great a fair and just equivalency process.

“We have submitted fundamental questions over the last 6 months for which we have not received answers,” says Dr. Salvador. “That’s a big issue because if they’re not willing to discuss or address these issues openly with us, then we have to go through other means to get these issues addressed.”

The Birth of the ITDAOC

Dr. Salvador had the opportunity to meet with the executive director of the NDEB, Dr. Marie Dagenais. This was a good meeting where concerns were heard, but questions still remain unaddressed.

“I don’t think she is a bad person at all,” says Dr. Salvador. “I think she has good intent and a very challenging job. The problem is communication and transparency. When questions go unanswered, how are we to know we are receiving a fair chance to succeed?

Many ITDs come from countries where speaking out against authority has severe consequences. We’re trying to encourage people not to be afraid in Canada.

People move here because they don’t want to deal with stuff like that anymore. It is about improving the process, so the next generation of ITDs doesn’t go through the same issues ours has.”

When you visit the ITDAOC website, the very first words you see are “Together, we are strong.” This is the best representation of Dr. Salvador’s organization.

Go to their board of directors. You’ll find all ITDs with truly impressive backgrounds and recent accolades working in Canada to help improve the dental profession. This is not a group of outsiders.

These are people living, working, contributing, and thriving in Canadian society seeking to make things a little better for those that follow in their footsteps. Can you think of any more authentic Canadian pursuit?

Fair Representation Breeds Trust and Opportunity

We could not be prouder to have had the opportunity to sit and discuss the future of ITDs and oral health in Canada with Dr. Luca Salvador. It is good to know there is an organization dedicated to helping ITDs find a brighter future here in Canada.

At the end of the day, it is all about having a voice at the table of decision-makers. Creating a representative body of ITDs, so they receive a fair chance at building a life in Canada that contributes to the betterment of their people.

If you would like to learn more about Dr. Salvador and the ITDAOC, please visit their website. They frequently post to their blog, host online and in-person talks, and advocate to numerous regulatory bodies within the Canadian government for fair and practical initiatives.

New members are welcome to join at any time. When you become a member of ITDAOC, you will be kept up to date with all the latest initiatives, news, and outreach programs being leveraged to improve the future of ITDs seeking a bright future in Canada.

Canada has long held a reputation around the globe as a warm and inviting country full of people who value respect and fair treatment.

Seeing an organization like the ITDAOC grow is not only a bellwether that there is an issue but a strength that Canada is a free space where voices can and must be heard to enact positive change.

We fully support Dr. Salvador and the rest of the ITDAOC Board and membership in their endeavors and will be closely watching the future developments of this well-meaning and necessary pursuit.

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The 10 Top Dentistry Schools in Canada for ITD Students

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date June 25, 2022

There are many reasons to visit Canada for your educational needs. Besides beautiful scenery, an incredibly welcoming population, and many opportunities to learn a new culture, Canada is an excellent place to immigrate as an internationally trained dentist (ITD). There are much exciting research and practice experience framed degrees included in the dental schools in Canada we have listed in this article.

There were more than 1.4 million university students in Canada in 2019. Between 2009 and 2019, 1.7 million jobs were created for university graduates.

Dentists in Canada enjoy a significantly higher pay scale than other careers, often earning more than $125,000 a year to start. ITDs are especially in high demand because Canada is immigrant-friendly and wants to help grow the health and dental care of citizens in rural and hard-to-reach areas of the massive country.

Dental school can average anywhere from $47,000 to $165,000+ for a four-year dental degree. This means that even on the high end, you are likely to come out on top within a few short years after graduation.

This is an occupation expected to be in shortage for the country. So getting in now to establish your practice is a wise choice.

Dentistry is a profession that is extremely important when it comes to the general health of Canadians. However, not all dentists are created equal. The top schools in Canada are able to provide their students with the education and experience they need to become successful professionals in this field. There are many dentistry schools in Canada, but which ones offer the best options for you?

What are the 10 Best Dental Schools in Canada?

It’s a common misconception that Canada doesn’t have good dentistry schools. In fact, Canada has some of the best dental schools in the world. Many Canadians believe their country isn’t known for its dentistry programs, but this is not true.

Canada has a long history of providing high-quality dental education to its people and residents. This means that a student from any country can come study at one of these institutions—and get top-notch training in return! Let’s get on our list.

10 – Dalhousie University Faculty of Dentistry (Halifax, NS)

This is one of the oldest universities in Canada, with excellent hands-on experience serving the local community’s underprivileged population. This way, you get real-world experience long before sitting for your final exams to be licensed.

Dalhousie has smaller class sizes, which is a significant benefit for those students that want a little more one-on-one instruction from faculty. The course load is pretty broad, with a strong emphasis on clinical care and exposure to dental surgery.

This specific campus is located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where it can be chilly, but you will be exposed to some of the warmest people you have ever met.

You can cover the Bachelor of Dental Hygiene program in one to two years or three years in Dental Hygiene, Dental Surgery, and Doctor of Dental Surgery qualification.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 18,500

International Student Tuition: $16,250 CAD

Acceptance Rate: 65%

International Students: 24%

Year Founded: 1818

Mascot: Rocky the Ram

9 – University of Manitoba Niznick College of Dentistry (Winnipeg, MB)

There is more emphasis on therapy and prevention techniques at this excellent school of dentistry. That is due to the presence of the Chemosensory Biology Research Group focused on chemical senses in the human population.

If you are more research inclined, the International Centre for Oral-Systemic Health (ICOSH) will help you gain a better understanding and cutting-edge innovation in approaching gum disease and tooth decay as well as the knowledge gap in training.

All of this means you get access to a lot of state-of-the-art programming and tools to accelerate your career. That includes a clinic for a hands-on experience that serves the local community.

Manitoba is a pretty big city with plenty to keep you busy on those rare occasions when you are not studying. It is also a great way to connect with in-need rural areas to set up a job after graduation.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 29,800

International Student Tuition: $272-$500/credit hour or $8,911 for Masters/PhD programs

Acceptance Rate: 52%

International Students: 21.9%

Year Founded: 1877

Mascot: Bison

8 – Universite Laval Faculte de Medicine Dentaire (Quebec City, CQ)

If you get the chance to study in gorgeous Quebec City, then do it! This is known as “Little Europe” because of the unique architecture and culture surrounding every cobblestone street. The local university integrates cutting-edge research into all its training programs, so you will be on the leading end of your training.

There is also a vibrant gerontology and periodontics area of the school that expands exposure to new techniques that is valuable to any student, regardless of specialty. You will be able to practice what you learn in a local clinic.

Laval hosts the Oral Ecology Research Group, which focuses on oral microbiology and immunology, which is a great feather in your cap when applying to jobs with the government in research and policy.

You should remember, though, that you are in Quebec City, where the vast majority of residents speak French more than English. You can get by in English, but do not go here if you are not prepared to learn a new language on top of your English requirements for immigration to Canada as an ITD.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 45,000

International Student Tuition: $13,750 undergrad / $11,250 grad

Acceptance Rate: 48%

International Students: 15-20%

Year Founded: 1852

Mascot: Victor the Eagle

7 – University of Saskatchewan College of Dentistry (Saskatoon, SK)

In the spring, this is one of the most gorgeous campuses you could ever visit. In the winter, you may be in for a bit of a culture shock as it gets quite cold. However, as the province’s first fully accredited dental program, a lot of resources and effort are poured into the quality education of every single student from this school.

That includes meeting the needs of the local Metis population, which will expose students to tribal territory and indigenous cultures, a precious tool for securing a career as a dentist in Canada. In addition, the local dental clinic offers hands-on experience boasting more than 10,000 clients annually. That is plenty of practice before sitting for your exams.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 20,953

International Student Tuition: $549-$1,201 per 3 credits / Masters and Doctoral $3,729 per annum

Acceptance Rate: 73%

International Students: 14.3%

Year Founded: 1907

Mascot: Howler the Huskie

6 – Western University Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (London, ON)

If you go online and research dentistry school statistics in Canada, you’ll find Western University almost always right in the middle. This is because you are getting a well-rounded education at a quality school for a reasonable price.

There is no single effort that propels this school above the rest, more of a versatile education that integrates much of the current knowledge of treatment, care, and planning.

You’ll have many opportunities to test out your skills and diagnosing through the Dental Outreach Community Services (DOCS) and Oral Health Total Health (OHTH). These both serve the location community with actual treatment plans and fundraising/outreach opportunities.

We recommend this college specifically for those ITDs needing to build a network from scratch. As one of the most widely recognized programs that focus on accreditation first, you will be introduced to many industry-leading professionals through speaking engagements and outings. Oh, and yes, this is where famous Canadian Alan Thicke when to school!

Quick Facts

Student Population: 27,300

International Student Tuition: $16,250

Acceptance Rate: 58%

International Students: 20%

Year Founded: 1878

Mascot: JW the Mascot (Mustang)

5 – Universite de Montreal Faculty of Dental Medicine (Montreal, QC)

For those ITDs looking at a bit more of a cosmopolitan education, welcome to Montreal! This is one of the vibrant cultural centers of the country, with a massive population of immigrants from all backgrounds and walks of life. Even if you somehow cannot find a local group at the school, you should have no difficulty finding a community in the city to feel at home.

This is a serious school that emphasizes technology and laboratory work under time restraints. There are plenty of hands-on opportunities, including working in a distracting setting due to the loud noises of city life. That includes serving more than 40,000 local clients per year.

You need to remember this is one of the top dental schools in the entire country. You will be exposed to competition and challenges that may not be your speed. It comes down to whether or not you want to be in an urban setting.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 45,360

International Student Tuition: $221.06/credit and $315/credit at grad level

Acceptance Rate: 57%

International Students: 23%

Year Founded: 1878

Mascot: Carabins

4 – McGill University Faculty of Dentistry (Montreal, QC)

Speaking of high competition, welcome to the most challenging dental school on our list to get into. This is because McGill is like Canada’s Harvard. The name recognition is extremely high, and it is located in the heart of Montreal. You are attending a university that is comparable to many other international universities around the world.

The dental school, in particular, has only a 4.6% acceptance rate for around 37-40 students a year. However, if you graduate from this program, you are pretty much guaranteed any job you could want as a dentist anywhere in the world.

That is because you are training under groundbreaking teachers in their field who constantly publish and push the industry into new realms of techniques and research.

You get a global practice type training that is suitable for city or rural practice. You also get to attend one of the most stunning college campuses that look straight out of a movie film set. This is the alma mater of current Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 40,036

International Student Tuition: $18,750 undergrad / $16,250 grad

Acceptance Rate: 47% general

International Students: 30-35%

Year Founded: 1821

Mascot: Marty the Martlet

3 – University of Alberta School of Dentistry (Edmonton, AB)

Now we get to the big 3. These are the dental schools people go to because they offer a reliable education with an almost guaranteed pathway to a lucrative career. That is because each one is located on a major trade route for the country, meaning a lot of experience working with local community members.

Edmonton is a gorgeous area of Canada with a lot of middle to upper-class families. If you want to experience it as a family dental practitioner, this is your best bet. There is a lot of emphasis on serving secluded populations in northern Alberta, and the university has received numerous awards in innovation, dentistry outreach, and research, making it a leader in the profession.

This is also a genuinely wonderful student life experience. There are endless methods to engage in sports, recreation groups, clubs, and organizations to balance your work-life career as a dental student.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 37,500

International Student Tuition: $16,250 undergrad / $6,250 grad

Acceptance Rate: 58%

International Students: 20%

Year Founded: 1908

Mascot: There are two: GUBA (Great University Bear of Alberta) & Patches the Panda

2 – University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry (Toronto, ON)

This and the number one school are a close tie. This is both the oldest and largest dental school in Canada, so you will have a significant graduating class of peers to network with for finding work post-graduation. You are located extremely close to hospitals, clinics, and outreach services that will give you endless opportunities for different specialties and training.

That includes the Hospital for Sick Children, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and the world-famous Mount Sinai Hospital.

The Collaborative Advanced Microscopy Laboratories of Dentistry is the leading research facility for technology and the study of the human body. There are also cutting-edge facilities for biomedical engineering and integrative AI technology that are second to none in the country.

To put it simply, if you want all the bells and whistles of an influential dental school, this is it. Almost half of the student body is made of international students.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 95,055

International Student Tuition: $35,280 – $39,000 per annum / $18,000 – $50,000 at grad level

Acceptance Rate: 43%

International Students: 44%

Year Founded: 1827

Mascot: True Blue, the beaver

1 – University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry (Vancouver, BC)

Normally, you will find our #1, and #2 dentistry schools swapped around, but Vancouver has really become more international focused over the past few years that we had to rank it at the top. A big reason for this is the quality of education. You have many leading faculty members that are distinct in their fields and offer continual breakthroughs that garner international attention.

The Faculty of Dentistry offers a wide range of programs and diverse scholarship opportunities for ITDs. You also get a degree that is well received practically anywhere in the world. So, if you do wish to travel outside of the country in the long run, you will be well set up to do so. This is the school that will offer the most bang for your buck.

Quick Facts

Student Population: 59,659

International Student Tuition: $58,804 per year undergrad

Acceptance Rate: 53%

International Students: 25%

Year Founded: 1908

Mascot: Thunderbird

Wrapping it Up

This is a pretty extensive list of the best dental schools in Canada to examine. We hope you have gotten at least a basic insight into each opportunity for your ITD career. As Canada is currently undergoing a huge push for international students, you should have no problem finding at least one of these for your future college career.

As always, we encourage you to read more about life as an ITD in Canada on our website. There are a lot of other details to consider, like what city you will live in when you graduate or alternative pathways to your formal licensing.

Whatever the reason, we are thrilled you are looking at Canada as an option. This is truly a wonderful country to live, play, and build a long-lasting dental practice. Good luck!

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11 Best Cities to Live in Canada

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date June 24, 2022

Canada is a beautiful country with so much to offer ITDs and immigrants looking to build a new life. From the rolling hills of the East Coast to the rugged mountains of the West, this nation is brimming with charm and culture.

As more people from across the globe look to relocate here, choosing where to live in Canada is becoming easier said than done. There are so many attractive options for the best cities to live in in Canada based on the cost of living, job opportunities, quality of life, entertainment, attractions, and more that it can be a bit overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of some of our favorite Canadian cities from coast to coast that are great for immigration. So whether you’re thinking about moving abroad or simply looking for your next travel destination, consider these 11 cities to find work and life as an ITD in Canada.

What are the Best Cities to Live in Canada?

So many factors go into answering this question, though, that it’s not always easy to know where to start. Canada is a vast country, ranked second largest globally, with only Russia above it. However, it is 39th by population. That means there is a lot of land to explore and enjoy without feeling like you are packed into apartments like sardines.

The total population is over 35 million people strong who speak primarily English and French. Some areas will have more French speakers than others. Still, you can easily get by with English because so many tourists enjoy the natural beauty of Canada. It is located just above the United States, which primarily speaks English.

There is a lot of opportunity in Canada, which made narrowing down the list to only 11 cities to live in challenging. We looked at factors like:

♦ Cost of Living

♦ Job Availability

♦ Crime Rate

♦ Quality of Education

♦ Total Population

And more!

As an ITD, it will come down to where the opportunities are, but this list will give you a general idea of some more welcoming areas that are more open to people from other cultures. The entire country is a warm, inviting place to build a home, but many immigrants like to start where people from their country have also moved to Canada. Let’s dive in.

1 – Ottawa

Ottawa is the capital of Canada and the second-largest city in the country. It’s also one of the most educated cities in Canada, with 45% of its population having a college or university degree. That is probably because there are two major universities in the city – the University of Ottawa and Carleton University.

Ottawa was named after a native tribe meaning “to trade,” which was fitting for its location on what was originally a crucial Aboriginal trading route between east and west. Today it’s home to many government offices as well as being considered one of North America’s greenest cities – something you’ll notice when you visit.

With over 1 million people living there, Ottawa isn’t too big or small. The population is expected to grow exponentially over the next few years. In addition, it has new investments from Canada’s immigration drive.

There are many well-groomed outdoor paths for riding a bike or enjoying a walk in the hotter summers. While the winters can be pretty cold, the city comes alive with great activities, festivals, and events.

This is a bilingual city that speaks both French and English, meaning that many public services will be available in either language.

The job market in Ottawa is vibrant because this city is home to Canada’s federal government offices, which employs a considerable number of the population. That means there is a low unemployment rate and a high demand for services to the middle to upper-class families, which dentistry benefits from.

At a Glance:

♦ Unemployment Rate: 6.3%

♦ Median Family Income: $102,000 CAD

♦ Cost of Apartment: $700-$1,400 CAD

♦ Cost of Gallon of Milk: $9.49 CAD

♦ Population: 1.3 million

♦ Foreign-Born Residents: 23.4% of the population

♦ Fun Fact: More engineers, scientists, and PhDs per capita than any other city in Canada.

2 -Vancouver

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the third-largest metropolitan area in Canada. It’s located on the south shore of Burrard Inlet, a natural harbor home to one of North America’s biggest ports.

The city has been growing steadily over the past few decades, but it hasn’t become overcrowded or overly developed like other cities with similar populations. Vancouverites celebrate their natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle as a point of pride (and they’re probably right). This is a place where you can go hiking or snowboarding for half your year and has plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy during those cold months when outdoor activities aren’t possible.

There are stunning beaches, islands, and coastline, as well as a vibrant urban center with many entertainment and knowledge centers rivaling most major cities across the globe. However, that also makes it one of the more expensive destinations on our list. If you can find lucrative job placement, then this is an excellent place to move.

Vancouver is on our list of best cities to live in Canada because it is so diverse and has a thriving economy. A colossal entertainment sector brings in many supportive jobs in the area, and plenty of housing is easier after the city converted much of the 2010 Winter Olympic centers into apartments.

If you want the best schools, hospitals, and medical care with easy-to-use public transportation and surprisingly mild weather, this is the place to be.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 5.2%
Median Family Income: $96,423 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $1,000-$2,100 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $10.45 CAD
Population: 2.1 million
Foreign-Born Residents: 42.5% of the population
Fun Fact: Recently ranked as the third most livable place in the world and 10th cleanest city in the world.

3 – Burlington

Burlington is a city in Southern Ontario, Canada, and the capital of the Halton Region. It is located on the shores of Lake Ontario, north of Toronto and south of Hamilton.

The city was ranked as the safest municipality in Ontario by Crime Rate Statistics Canada for two consecutive years (2010–2011), according to its 2011 police statistics report. The City has also been recognized as one of Canada’s top ten retirement destinations by Sun Life Financial.

This makes Burlington one of the favorite cities of expats from the U.S. and other European countries. It is also an area that sits between urban living and the great outdoors, due in part to the significant number of parks, walking trails, bike paths, and other quality of life enjoyments.

With so many out-of-towners moving to Burlington, there are a lot of job opportunities due to numerous new businesses popping up all of the time to serve the growing population. It has a broad economic base that adds to the region’s overall stability and does not suffer from a single industry overtaking another due to its diversity. A lot of people actually work in Toronto and then use the commuter train to go home to one of the best places to live – Burlington.

While all of Canada is family-friendly, this is known as one of the more “small-town feels” areas of the country that loves younger families. Shopping, dining, and education are all top-notch, and there is a rich active lifestyle supported by local communities that welcome people of all backgrounds.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 5.2%
Median Family Income: $93,588 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $900-$1,900 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $10.60 CAD
Population: 186,948
Foreign-Born Residents: 24.1% of the population
Fun Fact: Burlington has more species of lilacs than almost anywhere else in the world.

4 – Oakville

Oakville is a city in Southern Ontario, Canada, part of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It’s home to over 222,000 residents and has become a popular destination for those seeking to live in the GTA without sacrificing amenities.

The Oakville Chamber of Commerce said it best: “Oakville has been successful because we’re not Toronto.” If you’re looking for a smaller community with great schools and plenty of green space but still close enough to get into the big city whenever you need to—this is your place.

You are living right up against Lake Ontario, which provides a significant amount of entertainment, commerce, and tourism to the area. This is also only 30 minutes from downtown Toronto and about an hour from Niagara Falls on the U.S. border.

We put this on our list of the best cities to live in Canada for ITDs because of how welcoming it is to younger families and children. Between the broad array of arts, culture, music, sports, museums, festivals, and educational opportunities, this is an incredibly vibrant community for staying busy. No matter your background or interest, you can find plenty to do in Oakville.

Jobs are easier to find here because of the major industries in the area. Siemens, Ford, General Electric, and UTC Aerospace all have significant operations in the area. You’ll find a good portion of the population employed in science, pharmaceuticals, and eldercare.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 6.2%
Median Family Income: $113,666 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $1,900-$3,400 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $10.01 CAD
Population: 211,382
Foreign-Born Residents: 30% of the population
Fun Fact: More than 1.4 million tourists visit Oakville every year.

5 – St. Albert

If you want access to all the amenities that come with living in a large city without having to deal with all the traffic or busy streets of downtown, then St. Albert is the best choice. The cost of living here is lower than in other parts of Alberta, which makes it an attractive option for those looking for a place where they can still afford rent or mortgage payments but get more bang for their buck.

There is an abundance of high-paying jobs due to numerous industries moving into the area to serve the growing population. In addition, you get all the amenities of schools, healthcare, and recreation, as well as excellent outdoor green spaces along the Sturgeon River. This is a very family-friendly area and hosts the International Children’s Festival, which brings in more than 55,000 people annually.

Even though this is one of the best cities to live in, be prepared for some cold winters that can include temperatures 20 degrees below. A lot of people choose to live in St. Albert and then commute to Edmonton, another place on our list of the best cities to live in Canada. That is partly because there is a significant amount of the population works in the nearby oil, gas, and energy industry. This is a surprisingly vibrant science and technology sector of Canada with a strong IT and biotechnology drive for new innovation.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 5.2%
Median Family Income: $131,300 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $850-$1,295 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $9.37 CAD
Population: 65,589
Foreign-Born Residents: 23% of the population
Fun Fact: Voted the #1 best small city to live in Canada by MoneySense Magazine.

6 – Boucherville

Boucherville is a city in Quebec, Canada, and is considered one of the oldest places in the country. It’s also home to some pretty good eats, with restaurants like Au Pied de Cochon and Maison Boulud nearby.

Commute time from Boucherville to Montreal (where most jobs are located) is just 24 minutes—which means that if your commute takes longer than that during rush hour, then there’s something wrong with your car or something else about your life situation that needs fixing.

The average income in Boucherville has been rising steadily over time for full-time workers (like doctors and lawyers). That increase makes this option one of the best cities to live in for building a future with your family.

This is another location that is popular with expats from the U.S. because of the outdoor activities, sporting opportunities, arts, culture, and relative closeness to Montreal. You’ll need to brush up on your French as roughly 90% of the population prefers to speak that over English. That means being bilingual is essential to finding a dentistry position in Boucherville, Canada.

Other areas of job placement include aerospace, software, pharmaceuticals, technology, manufacturing, and transportation.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 4.3%
Median Family Income: $97,401 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $1,500-$2,800 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $9.87 CAD
Population: 40,753
Foreign-Born Residents: 5-10% of the population
Fun Fact: Excellent location for nearby festivals like the Montreal Jazz, Le Grand RibFest in Laval, and Igloofest.

7 – Calgary

Calgary is a cosmopolitan city and an economic center for southern Alberta, situated at the confluence of the Bow River and Elbow River in a large valley surrounded by mountains on all sides. It is home to many cultural festivals, including the Calgary International Stampede, one of North America’s most famous rodeos, the Calgary Folk Music Festival, and Truckfest, which takes place every summer at Heritage Park Historical Village.

The economy of Calgary has been built on oil and gas production since its inception, but today it also relies heavily on agriculture (especially beef), tourism, transportation equipment (principally aircraft), financial services, and high-tech industries such as information technology (IT) companies engaged in global business services operations such as call centers for international airlines or hotel chains.

More than 1.5 million people live in this busy city that expanded rapidly after the railway was built. As a result, you get a rich mix of old rural landscapes with young urban development, making this an excellent addition to our best places to live in Canada.

There are many jobs in various industries like film, aerospace, health, tourism, and dentistry. This is due in part to the vibrant influx of new business and the benefits from the highly successful 1988 Calgary Winter Olympic games that helped grow residential and financial opportunities.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 5.3%
Median Family Income: $105,060 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $1,300-$2,200 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $8.70 CAD
Population: 1.33 million
Foreign-Born Residents: 33% of the population
Fun Fact: Home to one of the youngest populations in Canada, with an average age of 38.

8 – Halifax

Halifax is a beautiful city on the east coast of Canada. It offers residents an excellent quality of life, a lower cost of living, and access to jobs. If you’re looking to raise a family in Canada or move back home after being away for a while, then this could be the place for you.

This is the regional capital for Nova Scotia and the 2nd fastest growing area for expats and immigrants. That is probably because the incredible coastline and laid-back lifestyle make it a lovely place to retire or enjoy a slower pace of life.

Halifax has a sister city of Dartmouth, connected by bridges over the Bedford Basin. Living there means access to twice as many educational, healthcare, and industrial opportunities. This also means double the outdoor development, parks, and natural beauty!

You get some cold temps being so close to the coast and plenty of snow, but the locals make it a fun and enjoyable season with festivals and plenty of places to dine where everyone hangs out together.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 4.7%
Median Family Income: $69,553 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $949-$1,850 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $8.51 CAD
Population: 431,479
Foreign-Born Residents: 9-12% of the population
Fun Fact: Halifax rents Point Pleasant, a beloved park, for one shilling a year from the British Government.

9 – Quebec City

Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec and the second-largest city in Canada. It was founded by Samuel de Champlain in 1608 and became a British colony until 1759 when it was restored to France.

Quebec’s climate is quite similar to southern Ontario’s, although winters tend to be colder due to its northern location. Summers are also more humid than they are further south due to prevailing winds coming off Lake Ontario.

This is one of the oldest cities in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its architecture and historical importance. There are a lot of cultural amenities in this city and a vibrant food and dining option as many expats with culinary training love to immigrate to Quebec City. However, you will need to know French as less than 2% of the population speak English fluently.

There is a log of timber, aerospace, and hydropower employment opportunities and not so much in the IT or science sector. The reason it is so affordable to live in Quebec City is that you are in store for a harsh winter. While you get some of the most intriguing winter festivals in the world, you also have a long spate of short dark days with more than enough snow.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 3.9%
Median Family Income: $59,881 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $949-$1,450 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $7.65 CAD
Population: 542,298
Foreign-Born Residents: Roughly 6-8% of the population
Fun Fact: The delicious french fries in gravy or other dips known as Poutine originated in Quebec City.

10 – Saskatoon

Saskatoon is the largest city in the province of Saskatchewan and is one of Canada’s fastest-growing areas. The strange thing about this place is that it does not feel like a city. When you are walking around the mom-and-pop shops and local restaurants, you get the sense this is more of a village, even though it has more than 273,000 people.

Everything feels outdoorsy in this place to live, with various parks, playgrounds, and recreational opportunities. As agriculture and livestock are major industries, you get delicious local foods. An expanded IT, biotech, and manufacturing interest are growing at a breakneck speed for new job placement.

The cost of living is relatively low because there is so much farmland nearby, but you will have severely cold winters. Unfortunately, this is one of those locations in the world where you have to be prepared for winter because the temps and snowfall can take over all aspects of life in the city.

Despite the rough weather, this tight knight community of happy and fun-loving people welcomes newcomers with open arms.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 4.7%
Median Family Income: $79,001 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $900-$1,200 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $8.03 CAD
Population: 273,010
Foreign-Born Residents: Roughly 15.6% of the population
Fun Fact: More than 8,200 local residents gathered in Victoria Park to host the world’s largest snowball fight on February 1, 2016.

11 – Edmonton

Wrapping up our list of the best cities to live in Canada is Edmonton. Here you find a wonderful city that is friendly to pretty much anyone that comes to visit or stay. This is due to the area being host to over fifty yearly festivals in art, culture, folklore, food, holidays, music, and more.

You have plenty of shopping and sporting events throughout the year, as well as a city, focused on creating more green space whenever possible. That makes this one of the best urban environments to still enjoy outdoor living in the world.

The weather here is going to be cold, and the city is spread out a bit without much public transport as of yet. You will need a car to get around the city and surrounding area. This is the capital city of Alberta and has a huge population, so there is plenty to do when things get a little chilly come winter.

At a Glance:

Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
Median Family Income: $97,800 CAD
Cost of Apartment: $975-$1,300 CAD
Cost of Gallon of Milk: $9.76 CAD
Population: 981,280
Foreign-Born Residents: Roughly 24% of the population
Fun Fact: Edmonton receives 2,299 hours of bright sunshine annually, with some days having up to 17 hours.

Wrapping it Up

All of these cities can offer you a great quality of life ITD option, as well as a high employment rate, low crime rate, and access to amenities. When deciding on the best cities to live in in Canada, think about what you need from your new home and where these needs might be met.

As ITDs exploring new opportunities, we cannot emphasize enough the power of networking. Speaking with fellow peers and mentors will be the best way to connect with these areas of the world. Take your time to explore the different amenities and features of each city before making your decision. All in all, you cannot go wrong with setting up your family through a dentistry career in the beautiful country of Canada!

Also, Check Out the Related Article: How to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist

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How to Pass the NDEB Canada ACJ Exams

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date June 16, 2022

Your journey as an ITD in Canada will involve the Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ) exam. This is a 5 ½ hour-long examination with only a short 30-minute break. It takes a deeper look at your clinical judgment, including testing how you diagnose, treat, and make decisions about your future patients.

As you can imagine, this is a fundamental step to prove to the national dental examining board that you have the skills and knowledge required to become a fully qualified dentist capable of serving Canada. Before you can take the ACJ exam, you must have already taken and passed the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK). A passing scaled score is a 75 or more. The entire test has around 120-150 single-answer multiple-choice questions, and you can sign up by logging into your NDEB profile to register and pay the fee.

General Tips to Pass the NDEB Canada ACJ Exams

Let’s start by saying the ACJ is not nearly as scary as some may say. Studying for this exam is different compared to the AFK because this is less about memorization and more about critical thinking and problem-solving. The entire exam is divided into cases and x-rays. This is information you would typically learn over time in a dental degree program and may require you to revisit some older texts to refresh your memory.

The goal is to assess how well you approach each case. The national dental examining board wants to ensure that you have the proper approach for orthodontic, pathology, endodontic and other cases.

For example, let’s say you have a Pathology case involving an ulcer in the mouth. You should be able to question the patient’s medical history to see if they have a previous autoimmune disease or related issue. Another would be to determine if a patient was exposed to a chemical due to their career and if you are trying to uncover their medical history. The goal is to show you understand how to discover those diagnostic details that will create a quality outcome for the patient.

You should expect a lot of questions about smoking. Everyone from ITDs immigrating to Canada to those students entering their first year should have a solid understanding of the effects of smoking. Knowing how to clarify your patient smokes 10 packs a day compared to 10 individual cigs will drastically affect how you should plan treatment for them.

1 – Take Advantage of Practice Questions

If you are a member of a prep school, then you will be exposed to the different styles of questions on the NDEB Canada ACJ exam. Otherwise, you should try the practice exams as much as possible. There will be tricks and examples designed to throw you off your game. You have to remember that you are being tested for your problem-solving capabilities and not just memorization of facts.

Dedicate a space and time every single day to studying for your exam. You want to make your practice habits a ritual that prepares your mind for the task at hand. This way, your brain will recognize what you are doing when sitting for the exam and make you more relaxed as you answer questions because it will feel familiar.

2 – Study X-Rays/radiographs in Detail

Use any resource possible to study up on x-ray film. A good portion of the Canada NDEB ACJ exam relates to how you interpret film from different patients. You will need to be able to diagnose what is happening and propose a treatment plan aligned with the radiographs and medical and dental history of the patient

3 – Think About the Big Picture

The ACJ exam focuses on patient care and treatment. It requires problem-solving and critical thinking. Read each question on the exam slowly to yourself, so you take in every piece of information possible. There are trick questions designed to send you in one direction toward a diagnosis when in reality, you need to pivot to a different outcome. The only way to catch these tricks is to slow down and focus on the big picture of patient care.

4 – Lean into Your Weaknesses

There are multiple topics like pathology, periodontology, endodontics, radiology, anesthesiology, etc. Every ITD will have a strength in specific areas and probably a weakness or two in others. That requires you to budget your study time, so you focus a bit more on the areas you need more help. Once you are confident you have a topic under your belt, move that to a “quick review” focus and double your efforts on weaker topics.

5 – Seek Out Resources

The beauty of the internet is that there is so much free information readily available for your review. From YouTube to Reddit boards to social media, there are endless resources that will help you gain insight into what to expect on the ACJ exam.

ACJ Exam Advice from Dr. Luca Salvador

Dr. Luca is the founder and President of the Internationally Trained Dentist’s Association of Canada. He was awarded his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Poznan University of Medical Sciences in 2018 and was happy to contribute some advice of his own about the ACJ exam.

Start by taking the time to prepare for this exam, but do not overthink the questions when you get to the testing day. Trust your judgment and be confident. People score lower because they overthink and do not rely on their training and knowledge. This is all about stress management and overcoming mental barriers so you can access the information required, offer a solid diagnosis, and then move on to the next question.

Take care of yourself as you prepare for this exam. Be sure to exercise, eat well, meditate, and do anything else that lowers your stress and improves your mental capacity.

We highly recommend reading our article on improving your memory and concentration as there are excellent tips in there for exam prep.

You may also want to reduce caffeine intake on exam day so you can remain calm as you move from question to question.

As long as you work through cases and radiographs/images available online or reference textbooks consistently, you should do well. You should start about 3 months out from the exam date and be sure to balance your study with your regular life. A prep course will help because they condense the information you need to learn for the exam instead of trying to cover so many textbooks on your own. At the end of the day, it is all about finding what works best for you, so you stay cool and collected during the ACJ exam.

ACJ Exam Advice from Dr. Zeina Naous

She is an ITD that scored exceptionally well on the ACJ and offered a unique insight into what worked best for her study methods and habits leading up to the big day. Her most significant point was to remember that the ACJ is not purely memorization. It is problem-solving and considering the whole patient care plan. That is why she suggests reading a lot of cases, so you get used to the style of questions and medical treatment in Canada.

Zeina also talked about using elimination as a crucial tool in the ACJ exam. Going through each answer and removing those answers you know cannot be possible because they do not fit the scenario is an excellent way to start. From there, your goal is to get as close to a proper diagnosis as possible. This is especially helpful for the X-ray questions.

You may want to create a booklet that summarizes different chapters or examples of specific medical cases related to standard x-rays. Unlike case-based questions, x-rays are about what you do or do not see. Therefore, you need to learn how to identify the pathology that appears in the radiographs.

The biggest thing to be aware of during the ACJ is that you are answering questions from the “Canadian point of view.” For many ITDs, this will be a different way of thinking because it involves a modern diagnostic method. In that regard, you need to read each question as carefully as possible to ensure you understand the full breadth of the topic.

Check out our list of Best NDEB Canada Training Institutes

Best Quality AFK Exam Preparation with DENTABEST
Prep Doctors Institute – Best International Experience
ConfiDentist – Best All-Around Program
DSTC Dental – Best for Canada & USA

What Comes After the ACJ Exam?

Once you have successfully passed the ACJ exam, it is time to move on to the NDECC. First, congratulate yourself as you are halfway through the exams involved in the NDEB. That by itself is quite the achievement.

The NDECC is a new exam that replaced the previous ACS. It is known as the National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence. As you can tell from the title, this is a fairly important exam that will evaluate your judgment through a series of clinical situations.

This exam began in 2022 and is a two-day process where you will perform seven clinical requirements on simulated patients under 10 situational judgment requirements. You can register for this exam once you have completed the ACJ through the NDEB website.

Wrapping it Up

From all of us at Beautiful Smiles & Teeth, we wish you the best of luck in this exam. If you have made it this far, we believe you can power through to a successful practice in Canada. We want to extend a special thank you to Dr. Zeina Naous and Dr. Luca Salvador for their excellent insight into this article.

We know there is a lot of information to digest for this process and want to reassure you that the best course of action is to study, prepare mentally, create a space for your practice, and maintain a well-balanced lifestyle, so you are healthy and mentally capable of success. With a bit of preparation, you can move one step closer to your dream of being a dentist in the great country of Canada. Trust your instincts. You’ve got this!

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How to Pass the NDEB Canada AFK Exams

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date May 14, 2022

We wanted to create a series dedicated to how to pass the NDEB exam when moving your dental practice to Canada.

This is designed to help ITDs as they make the transition through Canadian immigration and begin to work, practice, or build a dental career in one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in the world.

This is part one of our series, where we will get into the details of the AFK Exam in the NDEB process. We will provide some excellent insights and preparation guides as well as insights from one of the top scorers, Dr. Zeina Naous. She is an ITD from Lebanon who is working her way through the NDEB Dental Equivalency process.

We hope this series will result in many more ITDs experiencing the rapid growth potential and lucrative careers available in Canada.

What is the NDEB Dental Exam in Canada?

For foreign-trained dentists, the NDEB Dental Exam in Canada is a requirement for certification. The NDEB Dental Exam is offered consists of two parts: the written exam and the clinical exam.

The written exam is a multiple-choice format that tests your understanding of dental and medical knowledge. The clinical section will test your skills with simulated patients.

While studying for both exams, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no right or wrong way to prepare. For example, some students prefer using flashcards while others enjoy reading textbooks or taking online courses.

NDEB stands for the National Dental Examining Board, which is the body that oversees the competence level of those ITDs wishing to become or practice as Canadian dentists.

The NDEB equivalency process is designed to establish the credentials of those who have not gone through an accredited dental program.

The first thing you will need to do in this process is get your account and profile approved after registering at the NDEB website.

That can take anywhere from 4-6 months.

We suggest registering, then immediately beginning to prepare for your AFK exam so you can take it as soon as you are cleared.

What is the AFK Exam in Canada?

The Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) is a written exam that students can take when they are studying for the NDEB certification.

The purpose of this exam is to test your basic knowledge of the subjects required by the NDEB equivalency process, which includes anatomy, physiology, dental subjects, etc.

You should know that passing the AFK does not guarantee that you will be able to pass all other exams required.

It’s just one step along your journey toward becoming a Canadian dentist.

The test comprises 200 multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate your knowledge and clinical application capabilities.

The AFK is held twice per academic year [currently February and August], but that could change in the future as more and more students are using the online version over in-person proctored exams.

There is a 100-question multiple-choice self-assessment you can try out on the AFK website.

The AFK has a dual purpose. Not only is it required for the NDEB equivalency process, but it is also a fundamental step in attending dental school in Canada.

Where Do You Take the AFK Exam?

You can sit for the AFK by joining a number of different NDEB prep schools throughout Canada or by directly interacting with the NDEB. This will require 300 questions in two parts, each taking roughly 2 hours to complete.

The AFK is offered in two available formats. The first is electronic delivery via a Prometric test center.

The other is through a booklet offered at preselected exam sites that are listed when you register.

In order to pass the AFK exam in Canada, you will need a test-equated re-scaled score of 75 or greater. Anything less is considered a fail.

You can register for the AFK in the same portal you used for setting up an account with the NDEB system.

AFK Exam Insights from Dr. Zeina Naous

Okay, let’s get to the detailed information from an ITD that not only successfully passed the AFK and ACJ exam, but received one of the highest scores in ACJ history.

Dr. Naous is originally from Lebanon and currently lives in Canada while completing her NDEB equivalency process. She is 26 years old, a content creator, and a social media influencer.

Her degree was completed in 2018, and she moved directly after graduation without any dental experience in Lebanon.

How Long to Practice for the AFK Exam?

According to Dr. Naous, the AFK is all about discipline. You should start preparing for your exam about 3-4 months before sitting for the test.

You want to soak in as much of the practice information as much as possible. She strongly recommends prep programs and courses as part of your studying regimen.

The reason for this long preparation is that you will be competing against others in your “cycle.”

The more people that join prep courses, the more experience and exposure they will get with mock exams and practice materials compared to you.

The AFK covers a great deal of information that requires reference materials. While you can do it all on your own, it is easier when you have a curriculum or outline provided by people that have passed the exam and have been researching the material for a long time.

The exams are not very hard, but they are very detailed, so it may take some time in order to understand everything thoroughly enough so that you know exactly what information is necessary when answering questions correctly on the exam day!

Should I Join a Preparation Program or course for the AFK Exam?

Yes, if you can afford to join a prep course or school, you should do it. There are many options out there, but few provide the level of support that is needed to pass the AFK exam.

The first thing to look at when choosing a program is whether or not they offer personalized coaching and guidance from experienced instructors.

They should offer you resources to prepare like personal study sessions, group workshops, and one-on-one tutoring sessions all designed around your needs as an individual student.

You also get access to regular updates on how other students are performing on their exams so that you can see how well-prepared everyone else is.

This is a confidence booster because everyone knows what’s going on with each other instead of just wondering about things behind closed doors.

Part of the reason I agreed to be interviewed for this article was that I believe in the personal stories of success as a catalyst for your own completion of the AFK exam.

Seeing testimonials from former students who were able to pass their exams after using our methods provides you with tips and tricks needed to overcome hurdles.

Attending Lectures for AFK Topics

When you study for the AFK exam, attendance at lectures is just as important as preparing for the exam.

The best way to prepare for an exam is by learning all you can about the subject matter. You can do this by attending lectures and reading textbooks and articles about it.

AFK has its own set of topics that must be covered in order to pass its exams. The subjects covered include local lectures covering Anatomy and Physiology, Dental Practices, and anything else related to the profession of dentistry will only help bolster your experience and workable knowledge.

Other AFK Topics;

⋅ Pharmacology

⋅ Pathology

⋅ Pedodontics

⋅ Surgery

⋅ Prosthodontics

⋅ Restorative

⋅ Endodontics

⋅ Radiology

⋅ Medical Management

⋅ Orthodontics

⋅ Anesthesiology

⋅ Basic Science

⋅ Epidemiology

⋅ Periodontics

Practicing for the AFK Exam

Unlike most tests, you don’t want to cram for the NDEB exams. Instead, you should create a study plan that has enough time to allow for memorizing information and understanding the content.

This way, you can avoid mistakes in the exam and feel confident about answering questions correctly.

Assemble a study group of fellow students who are also preparing for the exam.

Having others help you revise material will make it easier for everyone because they will be able to share their notes with one another and compare notes after each practice session.

A Monthly Guide to Training for the AFK Exam

Let me share with you how I prepared myself for the AFK and maybe that can help you decide on a structure for studying and adapting your lifestyle.

Month #1

♦ Plan out a specific study time and place that I will use every day

♦ Find and attend lectures either online or in-person to help grow my knowledge

♦ Do as much reading as possible, and then go over that material 1, 2, or even 3 times

♦ Develop a solid understanding of problem-solving in general

♦ Dive early into Pharmacology because that is a heavy topic and requires a lot of memorization

Month #2

♦ Focus more on precise learning going subject by subject

♦ Start to divide your time between studying and taking practice exams for each topic

♦ This is a good time to build a network of fellow students by preparing and having study groups where you test each other

Month #3

♦ Troubleshooting – time to see where your mistakes are happening the most and focus on those areas

♦ You do not want to just correct a bad answer but understand what led you to that incorrect answer so you can retrain your thought process to avoid the mistake in the future

♦ Start to ease back on stress so you can relax more by introducing breaks so your brain will focus more when it is time to study and begin to internalize information

Month #4

♦ It is all about practice testing and honing in on those topics that you are still having trouble understanding

♦ The rest is just a refresher to ensure it is still present in your mind

♦ If you are attending a course, it is a good idea to participate in mock exams with them too. This will let you see what your scoring level is in general and in comparison to other students in that cycle.

General Tips for the AFK Exam

Start practicing as soon as you can. The sooner you start, the better your chances of success. Practice at least 5 days a week.

You need to be able to dedicate some time each day to studying and preparing for the tests, especially if you want to get them done in a shorter period of time.

Study at least 3 topics a week.

This will help ensure that you stay consistent with your studies, which is one of the most important factors when it comes to passing any kind of exam.

Stay consistent with reviewing all topics covered during each section/topic within an exam so that when it comes time for the actual testing, there won’t be any surprises.

It really helps to have a plan in place from the beginning.

The NDEB equivalency process is a marathon, not a sprint.

There are many resources online and off that provide you with a solid outline to study from, so spend those first few days of studying just developing your overall plan.

The goal is to pass your exam on the first try.

The current fee for the AFK is $800 if you register and take it through the NDEB.

Failing not only means you miss out on that money, but now you have set back the rest of your NDEB equivalency process by probably 6 months. Not to mention that if you took a prep course, that probably set you back an additional $3,000-$4,000 as well.

The more you delay, the longer it will take to either get into a dental school in Canada or move on to the next step of the NDEB equivalency process.

What Comes After the AFK Exam?

After you have successfully completed the AFK exam, you will move on to the ACJ – Assessment of Clinical Judgment.

This exam has a $1,350 fee, but the preparation courses tend to be slightly more affordable at around $2,000-$2,500, depending on where you go.

This will be what is considered one of the hardest parts of the NDEB equivalency process because it tests your ability to bring the correct tools to the problem.

You are expressing your ability to function through problem-based learning and how well you design and implement strategies to overcome clinical issues.

This is more than theoretical knowledge. It is how you express your clinical experience.

Need Inspiration? This Fantastic ITD Passed her AFK Exams

A featured story of our friend and dental professional Srujala Theegala

We recently had the opportunity to sit down and chat with AFK exam success story Srujala Theegala. She is an ITD student working her way through the process. Her path to success in the AFK exam was filled with challenges and doubts. However, an unwavering determination and perseverance allowed her to overcome these obstacles and successfully pass the exam.

From an early age, Srujala nurtured a deep passion for dentistry. Throughout her academic journey, she dedicated countless hours to mastering the required knowledge and skills. Recognizing the importance of thorough preparation, Srujala began by creating a well-structured study schedule, dividing time effectively by allocating specific hours for each subject and topic.

To reinforce her understanding of the material, Srujala incorporated active learning strategies. Instead of merely reading textbooks, she engaged in discussions with peers, formed study groups, and participated in online forums. When she was able to explain complex concepts to others actively, she began to solidify her personal understanding through diverse perspectives and insights.

Practice played a crucial role in Srujala’s preparation strategy. She devoted significant time to solving practice questions and mock exams. This approach enhanced her knowledge and familiarized her with the exam format and time management. She advises any future test-takers to seek out practice resources specifically designed for the AFK exam, as they provide targeted preparation and allow for self-assessment.

Understanding the importance of a healthy body and mind, Srujala prioritized self-care throughout her preparation. She maintained a balanced lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and adequate sleep into her routine. While it may seem hard to start, these simple health initiatives encourage better mental awareness and physical constitution.

One significant challenge Srujala faced was managing exam anxiety. To combat this, she developed coping mechanisms tailored to her needs. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and positive visualization were among the techniques she found helpful. Srujala emphasizes the importance of finding what works best for each individual, as managing anxiety is key to performing well in high-pressure situations.

Furthermore, Srujala stressed the significance of staying updated with current dental research and industry trends. She followed reputable dental journals, attended conferences, and engaged in professional networking. This approach helped her stay informed about the latest advancements in dentistry and ensured she was well-prepared for any scenario that might arise in the exam.

While Srujala’s story is unique, her foundational tips for how to pass the AFK remain universal. Learn from this remarkable story and integrate these tactics into your own practice, and you will find a path toward exam success.

Wrapping it Up

This was only the first part in our series on the NDEB Examination Process in Canada for ITDs wanting a career in dentistry

We want to thank Dr. Zeina Naous for her valuable insights into the exam, including her personal experience in receiving one o dentistry.

We hope this article answers many of the questions you may have about the AFK exam and how best to prepare yourself for your upcoming testing date.

Please be sure to come back to our site as we tackle other topics in this series and walk you through the process of transitioning from ITD to a certified dentist in the beautiful country of Canada.

If you have any questions about this article or the ITD process, be sure to send us a note through our contact page. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more helpful ITD articles!

Dr. Zeina Naous’ achievements are inspiring.

Follow her on Instagram @zeina_dentist and on Tiktok

vm.tiktok.com/ZML88S7Ev

Nutrition

9 Tips to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for Dentists

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date April 9, 2022

With the increased demand in Canada for well-trained ITDs and other dental professionals, the amount of time you are bound to be performing procedures for patients will be high.

Canadians have experienced a significant decrease in dental decay over the past 40 years, and that is because roughly 75% of Canadians visit a dental clinic every year.

All of that demand probably has you a bit concerned about how to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome for dentist work.

Dentists are a bit more likely to develop carpal tunnel because many of the procedures conducted involve the same repetitive motions, placing an extremely high demand on your hands.

From repairing a tooth to extracting a child’s teeth, you need to do your best to protect the health and endurance of your hand, arms, and upper body.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common issue for anyone who uses their hands regularly for the same types of movements over and over again.

People like mechanics, plumbers, and even concert pianists are susceptible to the carpal tunnel because their daily activity requires using the muscles and tendons of their hands and wrists at a high level.

Dentists are the same. Every day you see patients, you will use the same basic movements.

You may start to feel pain, numbness, and general weakness along in your hands and wrists. This is the result of a median nerve that provides sensation to the thumb, index, middle fingers, and half of the ring finger.

Once that nerve receives too much pressure, it starts to cause tingling and other unwanted sensations. There are also tendons around this nerve inside the carpal tunnel that may get inflamed or irritated from repetitive stress.

What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Dentists Should Watch For?

When you are experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome, it can negatively impact your dentistry practice. This is because it can cause weakness in your hands, remove your ability to conduct delicate motions, and often lead to dropping objects.

While those are the later signs, they are also clear indications that your dentistry career may be in jeopardy if left untreated.

More likely, you will experience slight numbness and tingling during the nighttime when your hands are resting.

During the day, you can expect decreased feeling in your fingertips, tingling, and difficulty handling smaller tasks like grasping a steering wheel, writing, or holding a book to read.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we encourage you to seek out the care of a doctor. They will most likely run a few tests like:

♦ Tinel’s sign: Your doctor will tap over where the median nerve should be in your wrist and see if that causes any tingling in your fingers.

♦ Wrist flexing test: Here, you place your elbows on a table and then allow your wrist to fall forward freely. If you have carpal tunnel, you can expect to feel tingling in your fingers within about a minute.

♦ X-rays: If a doctor suspects you have limited motion or range in your wrist, they may request x-rays.

♦ Electromyography (EMG): This is a nerve conduction test to see if the median nerve is functioning properly.

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The good news for all you ITDs out there preparing your move to Canada is that there are treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome.

This is a common ailment, and that means there has been plenty of research and development of treatments, including surgical and non-surgical methods.

Non-Surgical Treatments of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

These are the treatments most dentists prefer because they do not involve long healing periods. Most often, you will be asked to wear a splint when you are not performing procedures.

You may also be prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and possible cortisone injections to lower the pain and remove the swelling.

Beyond that, a doctor will work with you to make lifestyle changes. This is challenging because the most likely cause of your carpal tunnel syndrome is your dentistry work.

That is not something you can avoid without changing careers. We will get into steps you can take to prevent further damage below.

Surgical Treatments

Whenever your non-surgical treatments are not effective, you can expect the topic of surgery to come up.

The goal is to increase the size of the tunnel so that the pressure is released from your median nerve and tendon.

This is a fairly standard procedure with an excellent success rate.

The downside is that it will take time away from your practice. You can expect to experience some healing pain and stitches.

You will also be given some minor physical therapy techniques to improve the flexibility and strength of your wrists.

The risk of surgery is that you could lose some fine motor control, but that can be discussed with your doctor based on your age and other factors.

Also, Check Out

♦ How to Become a Dentist in Canada (A Step by Step Guide)

♦ How to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist

How to Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for Dentists

Now that we have gotten the background information out of the way, let’s get to the good stuff. We want to be sure you are living your best new life in Canada now that you have gone through the tests and paperwork of being an ITD, and that includes offering health tips, so you have a long and lucrative practice.

Here are some basic tips and tricks to preventing carpal tunnel throughout your dental career.

1 – Introduce Wrist Exercises

Your career requires maintenance, just like an athlete needs to stretch or a vocalist needs to warm up their vocal box. The more pain and inflammation you are experiencing, the harder it will be to maintain fine motor control. Introducing some simple wrist exercises is a great way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from developing.

There are quite a few excellent exercises to research and ask your healthcare provider about, but an excellent place to start would be these three:

♦ Spiders – Start by placing your palms together in a prayer pose, then rotate your wrists so your fingers are pointing to the ground. Now, slowly separate your palms while keeping all your fingers together as if with glue. Think of a steeple motion and use your thumbs to push down to your other fingers. Continue doing this out and in motion for a couple of minutes.

♦ The Shake – It may seem elementary, but shaking your hands out like you would if air drying them is a great way to keep your muscles and median nerve from cramping.

♦ Wrist Flexor Stretch – A lot of dentists swear by this stretch. Start by extending your arm in front of you with the palm facing up. Now bend your wrist back while pointing your hand toward the floor. Use your other hand to bend your wrist farther until you feel the stretch, then hold for about 15-30 seconds. Repeat this 2-4 times with both arms.

♦ Rubber Stress Balls – We highly recommend you purchase a few rubber stress balls that you can squeeze and release every so often. This both strengthens your wrist while also working out the median nerve, so it stays a bit more pliant.

2 – Ergonomic Equipment

We understand the costs of running a dental practice, even in Canada, where the government is extremely friendly toward helping you get going.

However, when you select what tools to purchase for you and your team, spend the extra few dollars and get the highly ergonomic equipment.

This is going to save you so much time and money in the long run because it will encourage your team to use motions that do not place as much stress on the wrists as older tools.

3 – Improve Your Seating

There is a habit in dental offices around the world to use the same equipment you learned your profession on in Canada.

Keep in mind that most schools have to save costs and may not get the most advanced or ergonomic equipment.

Improving your seating not only helps your back by the end of the day but also encourages a health-conscious team that will increase the use of proper body movement.

This is a great way to protect yourself from the same motions that cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

4 – Take Breaks

Yes, your schedule will fill up quickly. Canadians are well aware of their dental care, and you can expect to have a fully booked day almost from the beginning of opening or joining a practice.

However, you need to be sure to schedule breaks between patients to rest your hands or do some exercises.

Do not think of this as time spent away from your patients, but as necessary habits that improve your overall ability to treat your patient’s needs.

Talk to your team and assistants and ask them to make sure you are taking an appropriate amount of breaks if you are like most dentists and end up being focused on getting through your schedule more than your personal health.

5 – Manage Your Overall Health

ITDs understand that oral health both impacts and is affected by the rest of the body. The same is true for carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you are obese, have diabetes, or are at risk of other health conditions, you may be putting yourself at greater risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Creating a healthy lifestyle with a balanced eating habit and getting in 20 minutes of exercise a day will help you stay fit for duty.

This does not have to be hitting the gym every single free moment. A simple 20-minute walk with your dog and partner will do the trick.

6 – Pay Attention to Your Back Office Work

Maybe you are a fantastic dentist who follows all of the advice in front of a patient, but the second you are behind closed doors doing computer work, you start to hunch your back and fall into poor keyboard/mouse movements.

Do not forget that the care of your wrists extends beyond the dental office.

You need to watch all of your other activities to be sure you are not adding to the problem by something completely unrelated.

7 – Keep Your Wrists Warm

Canada is pretty well known for having cooler temperatures, which can be a problem for carpal tunnel syndrome.

The colder your wrists and nerves are, the more likely stiffness will occur.

You need to have supple wrists and fingers to perform your dental work, and that requires wearing gloves and longer jackets to stay warm when out and about.

8 – Wear a Brace at Night

It may not be the sexiest bedroom accessory for your dating life, but wearing a brace or splint at night on your wrists will help them stay in a neutral position.

Even getting in a short session of an hour or so a day helps return your wrists to a state of rest. When you do take the braces off, be sure to move your wrists naturally at first to regain strength and flexibility.

9 – Stop Smoking

Canada does have a smoking population of around 4.6 million, or roughly 15.1%. As an ITD or dental student in Canada, you are more aware than others of the damage smoking can do to a human body.

This is also true for carpal tunnel syndrome. Smoking can interfere with the blood flow throughout your body.

This will make what symptoms you may already have much worse and slow down your recovery or prevention methods.

If you are smoking, now is a great time to buy a nicotine patch and quit the habit.

Where to Find More Information

We want to make sure all of your carpal tunnel syndrome questions are answered as you develop your ITD career in Canada.

There are two excellent online resources to learn more about prevention, diagnosing, and treatment for this common situation:

They should connect you with a healthcare provider that specializes in the care and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

As always, we hope you have found this information valuable to your future work here in the beautiful country of Canada.

We do our best to provide as much knowledge and insider tips to ITDs as they make the transition to Canadian dentists.

Please do not overlook the risks of a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome.

You are going to be using your wrists an awful lot and will be susceptible to this issue. Do your exercises and treat your body like a refined tool necessary for your career development.

If you do suspect that you may have developed symptoms, go see a doctor sooner than later.

This is a common ailment and can be easily mitigated the earlier it is addressed by a professional.

A simple appointment could make a significant difference in your ability to practice dentistry in the future.

Instruments and Books International Dentist

How to Improve Memory and Concentration

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date March 27, 2022

Depending on your personal background, education, and level of experience, you could be required to sit for quite a few different exams, ensuring your journey through the immigration and qualification process in Canada.

Knowing how to improve your memory for these exams is a great way to improve your passing scores.

ITDs moving to Canada for a new career face favorable situations because the demand is so high.

Nearly three-quarters of Canadians visit the dentist at least once a year, that is almost 30 million people. The only way to keep up with that need is to invite ITDs to go through the process of becoming fully qualified in Canadian dentistry.

While our website is primarily focused on providing the details for every step you may take along your journey, we also want to ensure we offer valuable tips and insights to help you overcome roadblocks.

You could be the greatest dentist in the world, but if you suffer from stress or anxiety during your tests, you may risk a brand new life in one of the most welcoming and beautiful countries in the world.

That is why we would like to focus on how to improve memory and concentration so you can feel better equipped during your tests.

This will help you pass tests and inform the way you view memory for the rest of your life.

Also, Check Out

♦ How to Become a Dentist in Canada (A Step by Step Guide)

♦ How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Why Memory and Concentration Matter

It may seem logical to improve both concentration and memory, but we wanted to differentiate between the two of them.

This is critical because it shows two valuable skills instead of a generalized term. Concentration and memory work together inside your brain, but they do not lead to one another. When you are concentrating, you are focusing your mental efforts on a specific problem. Memory is different because that is the ability to recall information.

The point of this differentiation is that good concentration will enhance memory.

You need to practice skills that involve both. If all you do is focus on memory, you maybe be able to pull up all kinds of information that you reviewed, but without the concentration to apply such knowledge in a clear, logical, and concise way, you kind of defeat the purpose.

Thinking Outside the Box

When we consider what will help to improve your memory, you need to address the same issues that often afflict people in cognitive decline.

It may seem strange, but many of the activities doctors prescribe to those growing older or facing dementia, Alzheimer’s, etc., also improve a healthy younger mind.

As we move through this list of how to improve memory and concentration, allow yourself to think a little outside the box. It does not take great leaps of faith or expensive trainers to improve your mental retention and focus.

If you integrate some of these core concepts in your daily life, you will most likely begin to experience benefits faster than overwhelming yourself during a critical point in your career.

The most significant health killer to anyone is excessive stress. Be easy on yourself and use this advice as a guide to help, not a “must do or else you will fail” kind of situation. Our goal is to help, not overwhelm.

The Key Essential to Improving Memory and Concentration

1 – Train Your Brain

An excellent study in 2015 that even as little as 15 minutes of brain training a day could mean the difference between full awareness of your facilities to “brain fog” where your memory slips.

Study participants showed remarkable improvements in processing speed, short-term memory, working memory, problem-solving, and fluid reasoning assessments – all attributes you would want when taking exams as an ITD interested in being a dentist in Canada.

The good news is that brain games do not have to be overly technical. You can see many examples on the website Luminosity that range from simple matching games to complex food delivery simulations.

The point is to engage your brain in memory-based games that reward success and techniques. This could even be something as simple as a crossword puzzle or Sudoku in your local newspaper.

2 – Train Your Body

ITDs are probably already aware of what a poor diet can do to the body. It does not take a great leap of understanding to know that too much sugar, fried food, or other over-processed items lead to lethargy and slow mental capacities.

Regular exercise reduces the risk of cognitive decline.

It protects your brain by stimulating blood flow and engaging your entire body. No, you do not need to suddenly become a bodybuilder or extreme sports expert on top of being a successful dentist.

However, going for a walk for 20 minutes a day, hitting the dance floor, biking, swimming, or even doing yoga are all excellent ways to get the body moving and bring the mind along for the ride.

There is a secondary benefit that we should point out as well – anxiety.

The immigration process can be stressful because there are so many things you have to remember and do perfectly, or else it is back to the end of the line. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to naturally lower your anxiety and depression factors.

The endorphins released by something as simple as an afternoon walk through the park have dramatic effects on your mood, emotional well-being, chemical processes in your body, and ability to think clearly.

3 – Meditation

Go talk to any successful person in the world, and you are bound to find some form of meditation in their lives.

The author and podcast superstar Tim Ferris (4 Hour Work Week) actually points this out in his work with high-income earners and innovators from all over different industries. One of the few common themes in their lives is setting aside as little as 10-20 minutes a day for mediation.

Mindfulness meditation improves memory, and brain function reduces brain degeneration, and improves working and long-term memory.

Making a habit of meditation actually physically changes the brain by increasing brain plasticity.

This is precisely the function that monks use to withstand sharp nail beds, endure extreme temperature, and a list of nearly mythic feats, not through superhero strength, but with razor-like focus attained through meditation.

There are some excellent free resources on YouTube and through App Stores where you can have guided or timed meditation.

You also do not need any equipment and a little space where you can sit comfortably undisturbed for a small amount of time.

4 – Get Some Sleep!

Anyone working in the medical field understands how sleep affects performance.

Not only do we see patients who can barely function without a decent amount of sleep, but we have also all seen our peers struggle through dentistry school on only a few hours of study instead of quality sleep.

Sleep is vital to overall brain health. Without the body’s natural ability to rejuvenate processes through quality sleep, you can expect lower cognitive capabilities.

On average, an adult should seek out 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every single night. This is how your brain will create and store memories.

This also affects mood. We have all been there when a lack of sleep results in us snapping at those we love just because we are overtired.

The last thing you want to do is walk into a proctored exam and start snapping at the instructor.

You want to stay calm and allow your mental powers to kick into full gear.

Getting a good night’s sleep is an excellent way to increase the chances of passing your test.

5 – Quality of Food

Of course, eating healthy leads to many improvements in body function and capability, but we should address the specific effects of high sugar and increased caloric intake. High caloric intake leads to memory impairment.

This can place an undue inflammation effect on the brain, decreasing your ability to recall memories.

Sugar is no better. Try to limit or cut out sugary drinks, excessive ice cream, or anything else that may only temporarily give you an energy boost. Stick to fresh fruits as your sugar high instead of sodas and chocolate delights.

6 – Drink Your Coffee

Everything is in moderation. In 2014, a study found that 200mg of caffeine resulted in better recall testing compared to others without the caffeine boost.

This does not mean you should be shoveling green tea or gallons of hot coffee into your body. However, when taken at strategic times before a test, you should experience a slight increase in your abilities.

7 – Dark Chocolate is Okay

The only contradiction to our sugar advice from above relates to dark chocolate. The bitter joy of 72% cocoa or higher actually improves your spatial memory testing.

This is because cocoa flavonoids improve blood flow to the brain. Again, this does not mean you should immediately go out and buy a bull box of dark chocolate and then go nuts some weekend night. It means a small square (about 1.5” x 1.5”) a day can help you boost your mind.

Dark chocolate is also an excellent source of antioxidants and helps cure your sugar fix without tipping the scale when you get out of the shower.

8 – Study Your Errors

This is actually one of the more interesting items on our list. We know that seeing what answers we get right and wrong on a test is almost compulsive action.

However, if we actively study what led to our wrong answers, we lower the chance of making the same mistake twice.

When we revisit a task, we create a memory of the correct answer and the errors that led up to the incorrect answer.

Learning a next similar task actually becomes more manageable because we already know what errors led up to the problems with the first.

Think of this as having a personal coach inside your mind that points out the errors you made so you can overcome them in the future.

There are plenty of other considerations for improving your test-taking ability, but these are the essentials that will almost guarantee a better result.

9 – Use Healthy and Beneficial Supplements

There are many safe over-the-counter supplemental options for improving your memory and concentration.

We always advise speaking with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement, especially because you have advanced medical training, which tends to leave a blind spot with our personal health.

You need to be a little careful because there are so many varieties of supplements out there promising significant results without having the evidence to support their claims.

However, we have found a shortlist of supplements that help with brain health and give a natural boost to your test-taking abilities.

♦ Ginseng enhances brain function by fighting off fatigue. It also has antioxidant properties that can keep your blood sugar levels in check, so you relax during your test.

♦ Fish Oil, specifically Omega-3, is an excellent boost for your overall brain and mental health. This helps prevent memory loss and has the added bonus of lowering cholesterol levels.

♦ N-Acetyl L-Cysteine is on the fence a little because the science is not yet solid, but you can expect a boost from glutamate, which is a neurotransmitter that helps with learning and memory.

♦ Zinc boosts memory – plain and simple. There is actually quite a bit of zinc in the brain matter already, so double-check that your levels are low before using this supplement.

♦ Vitamin B-6 is useful for studying. There have been a lot of studies on brain function and the elderly showing B-6 to have a positive effect.

♦ Vitamin B-12 is good if you have a deficiency. When you do not get enough B-12, you experience “brain fog” that can make it hard to concentrate. So again, check with your healthcare provider before taking this supplement.

A quality multivitamin will help as well because it will balance any needs your body is experiencing that you are not getting through your typical diet.

We should also mention Ginkgo Biloba. There have been a lot of studies that confirm the effects of this supplement are the same for people who took the placebo. For that reason, we do not want to suggest it quite yet.

Three more are frequently used in combinations right before a test, including Caffeine + L-theanine, Bacopa monnieri, and L-tyrosine. We have not seen enough research as to whether or not these are effective yet, but we will update you if that changes.

The last thing to mention in the supplement world when preparing for your exams is essential oils. Using scents that leave you feeling calm and focused is an excellent way to trick the mind into activity. We like the smell of peppermint.

Remove Distractions to Improve Memory and Concentration

We wanted to touch base on a critical aspect for ITDs looking to qualify in Canada for their dentistry career, which is distractions.

Life is hectic, and it has become way too easy to let social media, streaming shows, and constant connectivity get in the way of achievement.

We are not downing those activities, more that if you want to succeed in your exams, you need the perspective of setting up a dedicated space where you can study distraction-free.

Here are some essential tips:

1 – Time & Date

Make studying a priority by designating a specific time and date you will study regularly.

This encourages your mind by prepping it with crucial triggers in the environment.

If your brain knows every morning from 7 am – 8:30 am will include studying, it will prepare itself for the task the same way it does for taking a shower, eating a sandwich, or any other activity.

2 – Silence Alerts

Go offline from any alerts during your study sessions. For example, turn your phone completely off and log out of any websites that may pop up when using your computer.

You could even create an email signature that alerts friends, co-workers, and family that you are unavailable during your study sessions.

3 – Focus on Small Sections

Rome was not built in a day, and neither was your dental career. Break big chunks of information into smaller pieces you can focus on 1 at a time.

4 – Background Noise

Many ITDs like to study in coffee shops or near a busy street window.

If you are going to have a noisy environment, use it to your advantage by recreating it in your space. Plenty of YouTube videos simulate comfortable background noise that actually relaxes the mind like rain, crowds, nature, and more.

We actually heard of an ITD that studies using the background noise of walking around Disney World as a way to stay calm.

5 – Keep Your Space Clean

No one is asking you to be a neat freak, but having your study space clean and organized increases the chance that you will continue to work there.

Anything that prevents you from studying, like having to tidy up, only creates a barrier to doing the work.

6 – Reward Yourself

We are all kids at heart, and having a fun reward for getting the work done feels good.

Hold off on watching the next episode in your binge-a-thon or going out with friends until after the studying has completed. You will feel better and get more satisfaction from your reward.

Stay Calm and Carry On

The greatest advice we can give for improving your memory and concentration is to strive to remain calm.

We understand the pressure you may feel because we have been there before.

That is why we created this website as a reference because we know what it is to have the weight of success holding you down. In many cultures that immigrate to Canada, there is also an added family pressure to be the best in your field that can escalate feelings of anxiety and stress.

All of the tips we suggested here work in collaboration with each other.

They do not require a complete life overhaul, just subtle changes that can be introduced one a time. The key is consistency and allowing yourself the freedom to succeed. We know you can do this!

Instruments and Books International Dentist

How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date March 20, 2022

ITDs looking to expand their dental practice or opportunities in the beautiful country of Canada are required to pass a few different tests and requirements for immigration and certification. Some of these are designed specifically for your dental educational background, while others explore your capabilities with the language used most commonly around the country – English. Learning how to prepare for the TOEFL test in Canada takes a little bit of research to get you on your way to a lucrative career in dentistry.

Canada is a surprisingly culturally rich country with many different demographics and backgrounds, all coming together to enjoy the vibrant cosmopolitan centers and natural environments.

The two primary languages spoken, written, and read in Canada are English and French.

However, there are over 200 languages that are in use around the country by many different cultural centers and groups of residents. To practice dentistry in Canada, you will need to prove your capabilities with the English language, which requires passing the TOEFL.

Therefore, we have put together a quick guide about preparing for the TOEFL and furthering your dental career.

What is the TOEFL?

TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language and is the test format given to ITDs entering Canada. It is the world’s most accepted English language literacy test for those hoping to work, study, and immigrate into countries like Canada and the U.S.

It is also highly regarded as the gold standard for proof that you will be able to research and understand instruction while studying at Canadian universities and institutions. If you want to make it through admissions, you will need to pass the TOEFL exam.

The TOEFL test is accepted by more than 11,500 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries and is available through 3 different options:

♦ The traditional TOEFL iBT test in a test center

♦ The TOEFL iBT Home Edition

♦ The TOEFL iBT Paper Edition

The overall goal of the TOEFL exam is to evaluate 4 English academic skills – reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

Why Does the TOEFL Test Matter to Me?

In one of our stellar posts, How to Become a Dentist in Canada, we outlined the more prestigious schools, universities, and institutions in Canada that you can attend as an ITD. All of these schools require a good TOEFL score in order to attend their programs. This includes:

♦ 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)

You will still have to pass the AFK exam before you can move on to going back to school with a successful IDAPP result. These schools want to verify that you can handle the coursework by reviewing your completed TOEFL test.

This is helpful to you as an applicant as well because you do not want to waste a considerable sum of money on a program that will be next to impossible to pass due to language barriers.

How to Start My TOEFL Preparations?

The challenge to how to prepare for the TOEFL is that each school has different admission requirements related to your overall score. For example, the University of Toronto requires a whole test score of 89-100, whereas McGill University goes as low as 79.

These test format outcomes vary because many of the participating colleges and universities are located in metropolitan areas where they assume your language skills will quickly improve due to the immersive nature of attending their programs.

That may be true, but it can often be anxiety-inducing for ITDs who have little to no experience with the English language to participate without a better grasp of English. For a more inclusive review of each university’s requirements, visit this page.

*Quick Tip: While we always offer as many professional and proven sources of information, we also wanted to suggest two tips that help a lot of potential ITDs. Download the app DuoLingo for free from the App store, practice English, and stream popular English TV shows with the subtitles turned on. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you pick up the nuances of the language.

Let’s go over the specific tips of your TOEFL preparation skills you will need to focus on for a decent score. The two main ways most people take the TOEFL are online at a test center or home computer station or using the paper test. Both have different requirements:

Also, Check Out

♦ How to Become a Dentist in Canada (A Step by Step Guide)

♦ How to Improve Memory and Concentration

Internet-based test

♦ Reading section: 60-80 minutes | 36-56 questions

♦ Listening section: 60-90 minutes | 34-51 questions

♦ Speaking section: 20 minutes | 6 tasks

♦ Writing section: 50 minutes | 2 essays

Paper-based test

♦ Listening section: 30-40 minutes| 50 questions

♦ Writing section: 25 minutes | 40 questions

♦ Reading section: 55 minutes | 50 questions

♦ TWE test: 30 minutes | write one essay

Tips for Passing the TOEFL Test

1 – Listen and Watch English International News

Try watching the BBC International News that is available online for free. This gives you a good insight into the vocabulary and grammar skills needed for the English language. Watching international news instead of local is helpful because you will see familiar items related to your country that put the language in context.

2 – Get a Virtual Pen Pal

Using social media is an excellent option for those that can engage with native English speakers. Many people are looking to learn your native language and will be willing to trade time working with you in English if they can do the same for your language.

3 – Flashcards & Podcasts

You can find free resources online by searching for “TOEFL vocabulary lists” and then downloading PDF versions of flashcards. These are easy to use and fun cards with common English words or phrases that you can take out for 5-10 min a day in-between work or social obligations to help you study. It also helps to listen to English podcasts while commuting just to familiarize yourself with the language’s tone, structure, and nuance.

4 – Take the Practice Exam

We suggest taking the TOEFL practice exam 3 times. Once at the very beginning of when you decide how to prepare for the TOEFL, again about halfway through the duration, you have set aside before sitting for the exam, and once more about a week before your exam date. This gives you an excellent measurement of your overall progress. You can view official practice questions here.

5 – Be Mindful of Your Mistakes

Take care to follow the answer guides so you can better understand the mistakes you are making and how to overcome them in the future. You do not want to only know what the answer is correct, but how you arrived at that conclusion.

What are the Different TOEFL Exam Sections?

There are four main areas of testing – reading, listening, speaking, and writing. You may take notes throughout all sections of your TOEFL exam and are looking for a score of 90 or higher for the best intuitions. It takes about 10 days after taking your test until you receive your verified score.

Reading Skills Section

This will involve reading passages and then answering questions based on what you just read. Each passage is about 700 words long and has around 10-14 questions. You will cover various academic topics from history to art to science and beyond. A good score is going to be anything above a 22.

Listening Skills Section

This will test your ability to understand the English language using audio prompts. You will listen to 4-6 different lectures and 2-3 conversations. Each one lasts about 3-5 minutes and comes with 4-8 questions.

Please note: you will only hear the audio clip once, so take notes! You will hear different English accents, so it is crucial to listen for context in the conversation or visual cues when taking the online test. A good listening score should be above 21.

Speaking Skills Section

This is the shortest section of the test and often gets overlooked because ITDs think it is easy. We cannot stress enough that you need to slow down your speaking speed to a natural level instead of letting anxiety prompt you to rush through each question.

You will be given 6 tasks, each requiring you to speak on topics ranging from familiar to relevant passages or audio clips. A good score in speaking is above 22.

Writing Skills Section

For this section, you will be required to write two essays, one that is integrated and one that is independent. The integrated essay involves reading an academic passage, listening to an audio clip, and then comparing the two by how they support or challenge one another.

The second essay is based solely on a prompt where you will write about your own opinion. A good score in speaking is above 22.

What is Considered a Passing Score for the TOEFL Exam?

Again, the specific goal number of your TOEFL Test score will depend on the Canadian university or institution you are hoping to study dentistry with. In general, you are shooting for a total test score of over 90. A perfect score would be 120.

There is no guessing penalty on the TOEFL. You earn points with correct answers and nothing for incorrect answers, so it never hurts to take a guess.

These are called “raw” points. Every section is scaled based out of 30. Universities will only consider your scaled score, not your raw scores. That means you want to shoot for as high of a raw score as possible. A great resource for the scaling process is here.

How to Register for the TOEFL Exam?

The TOEFL iBT is administered 6 days a week around the world, so you will have plenty of opportunities to register. Some online resources suggest only needing 7-10 days to prepare, but always suggest 3-4 months, so you have plenty of time to study.

You must preregister. You cannot walk into a test center without some form of registration to verify your identity and exam.

There are 3 ways to register for the TOEFL iBT exam:

♦ You can register using an ETS account here.

♦ Or by phone calling +1-443-751-4862 or 1-800-GO-TOEFL (1-800-468-6335)

♦ Or by mail using a registration form that is printable here.

In all cases, you will need payment information like a credit card readily available and have a time and place in your mind for selecting your test date.

The ID requirements vary depending on your country of origin. In general, you can expect to need original government documents with a photo ID that has your full name, signature, and any government-issued ID numbers. You can learn more about your specific country of origin by visiting here.

The total fees for the TOEFL vary based on your testing center. For example, those residing in the U.S. can expect to pay USD $195 for a single exam. There are additional fees for retaking the TOEFL or scheduling a new date if you have a conflict.

How to Prepare on the TOEFL Exam Day?

As long as you have taken the time to prepare for your TOEFL exam, you can expect to do pretty well. Most ITDs already have some experience with the English language due to their work in dentistry.

When you arrive at your testing center, be sure to have two forms, a photo ID and a printed copy of your registration confirmation number.

Eat a balanced breakfast beforehand and avoid too much sugar or caffeine that may give you the jitters during your test. Dress semi-professional with comfortable clothes that will not leave you too cold or hot.

The goal is to be as comfortable as possible, so your nerves relax. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early in case there are any special instructions you need to follow.

Finally, keep your mind in “English” mode. It helps to listen to the English news, use an app, or have a conversation with someone that speaks the language before your test. This prompts your brain to maintain that language while taking your test.

Wrapping it Up

There is a lot of information to go over for how to prepare for the TOEFL. The best thing is to keep your end goal in mind of attending a Canadian dentistry school.

It helps to have a clear idea of why you are doing the TOEFL in the first place. This will align your focus so you can get the best possible outcome.

As always, we hope you have enjoyed our guide and welcome you to visit our site as often as possible.

We are constantly updating with new ITD information that helps people immigrate to Canada and find a successful new career and life in one of the most engaging countries in the world. Good luck with your test!

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How to Become a Dentist in Canada (A Step by Step Guide)

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date March 10, 2022

ITDs from all over the world make it over to Canada through the immigration process and then are faced with some challenges to become fully accredited and licensed dentists.

We wanted to go a little deeper into this side of the process for those internationally trained dentists that are not opting for specialized programs during immigration, but just want a closer look at how to become a dentist in Canada using the equivalency process.

The good news is that how to become a dentist in Canada does not require you to receive another dental degree if you already have a quality education.

It does require you to prove your dentistry capabilities by taking a series of tests or exams that can be challenging if you are out of practice or have been specializing for several years.

We understand the amount of frustration with the process of being a dentist in Canada. As long as you can keep your paperwork well organized and make it through the exams, you will come out the other side into a highly favorable job market with many lucrative job options in Canada.

This is a gorgeous country to live and work in with friendly people, cosmopolitan centers, rich natural resources, and culturally diverse.

We will be following the steps of a general dentist through an accredited and non-accredited/equivalency process. We have a lot to cover, so let’s dig in!

Where Do We Begin?

To be a licensed dentist in Canada, you must have some form of formal education like a BDS/DDS/DMD degree from a recognized school or university program and hold an NDEB certificate.

The most straightforward pathway for an ITD to become a dentist in Canada is to go through the equivalency process. This is designed for those ITDs with a degree program or formal training that is not recognized as accredited in Canada.

Let’s break this down a bit more and go over some steps. Everything starts by applying and receiving approval for the NDEB.

Step 1 – NDEB Application & Approval

The NDEB is the National Dental Examining Board of Canada that issues exams to certify which dentists can practice in Canada. They are responsible for keeping a record of who is appropriately trained, educated, and skilled enough to perform dentistry legally.

To qualify for the NDEB application, you must fulfill one of three requirements:

♦ Graduate from a Canadian dental program – your school will automatically send your confirmation of graduation directly to the NDEB on your behalf.

♦ Graduate from an Accredited Dental Program in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland – it is up to you to send your original official transcripts to the NDEB in a sealed envelope. This must confirm the date you received your degree.

♦ Successfully Complete the Equivalency Process – your university/school will have to submit proof of graduation and academic records as you will pass through the multiple exams.

General dentists must hold a degree from an institute, college, or university to be considered part of an accredited program. That means your school is recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC). Otherwise, you will be considered a non-accredited applicant and must pass the equivalency exams.

To open an NDEB account, click here and pay the fee. Then, send over the documents required and wait for the NDEB to review and approve your application.

Step 2 – Pass the AFK

Any foreign dentist seeking certification in Canada must pass the AFK unless they are a graduate of an accredited school.

You cannot register for the AFK exam until you have received approval from the NDEB. That can take around 22 weeks from when you submit your application to when you receive final approval.

We highly suggest you take advantage of this time period by studying for the AFK so you can pass it on your first try and shorten the wait between steps.

The best way to manage how much money and time you will spend on the entire process of becoming a dentist in Canada has a lot to do with the pass rate of your exams.

We do not want to place added pressure on you as you move through this process, but the fewer times you have to take any of the exams, the faster you will become a qualified Canadian dentist.

The AFK is a 200 single answer multiple-choice questionnaire divided into two parts. This test is designed as the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge in the field of Dentistry. You can find a decent self-assessment here to give you an idea of what the AFK will cover.

You can take this exam electronically or via a booklet, but it must be at a proctored location. If you do not pass the AFK, you will not continue towards being a dentist in Canada.

To pass, you will need a test equated, a re-scaled score of 75 or higher. Start by logging into your NDEB profile and register by paying for the examination. You will be notified by email with instructions to schedule your exam with Prometric (a proctor).

Step 3 – Option 1: Pass the ACJ & NDECC

If you are not going back to college in Canada or another accredited program recognized by the NDEB, then stick to this path. Most ITDs will follow these steps. Don’t worry. We will get back to the school route later in this guide.

The ACJ

Upon completion of the AFK, it will be time for the ACJ. The Assessment of Clinical Judgment reviews your ability to formulate a diagnosis and make clinical decisions. It also covers knowledge in radiology and if you can adequately interpret that information.

The ACJ is a 5.5-hour exam with only a 30-minute break, so be prepared to go through a lot of material. There are 120-150 single answer and multi answer multiple-choice questions. Every section contains case-based diagnosis and clinical decision-making questions. This is only administered electronically at a proctored test center.

Like the AFK, you need a passing score of 75 or more. You can schedule your test by logging into your NDEB profile and registering for the exam after paying the fee.

The NDECC

This used to be known as the ACS but was changed in December of 2021 to the NDECC. This is the third exam in the equivalency process of becoming a dentist in Canada without an accredited dental degree. The test is known as the National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence.

During this exam, you are assessed based on clinical competence, which walks you through a series of scenarios requiring a judgment. Your skills and clinical capabilities will be tested based on patient-centered care, professionalism, communication, practice management, and more in that field.

The first NDECC exam will be held in June of 2022, so we do not have more details about registering, but we anticipate it to be similar to the other exams. Keep a close watch on your NDEB account to learn more.

Step 3 – Option 2: Pass ADAT and Complete University

For those ITDs that want to go back to college, you must first pass the ADAT. This takes the place of the ACJ and assesses if you are ready for an advanced dental education program.

The test is known as the Advanced Dental Admission Test and is used by all colleges in Canada to determine eligibility to their program.

The test takes about 4.5 hours to complete and is available at Pearson VUE centers all over Canada and the U.S. Most ITDs that take this test have had at least a couple of years of training in dentistry and are seeking post-graduate training or specialty practice. You can learn more about the registration process for the ADAT here.

Once you have a passing score for the ADAT, you can apply to a number of qualified Canadian institutions like University of Toronto and Mc Gill University. These schools accepts ADAT results instead of AFK.

Other schools that offers Dentistry programs that require AFK results prior to enrolling in their International Dentist Advanced Programs:

Keep in mind that the cost of these institutions can be pretty expensive. Depending on the program and fees, you should expect to pay anywhere from $50,000 to $360,000 CAD.

Step 4 – Pass Board Exams

Every ITD will have to pass the OSCE to receive final certification as a licensed dentist in Canada.

This is the final test you will be given and stands for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination. As its name suggests, this is a comprehensive exam to determine you can operate within or own your own clinic.

The OSCE is a booklet test consisting of two sessions on the same day. The first is a 50 multiple choice questionnaire that will include everything from case history to dental charts. Every question will have up to 15 answer options with one or more correct answers.

The second session is a long-form answer to one structured question that does an in-depth look at your ability to practice.

Like all the rest, you must have a 75 or higher to pass this exam. You can schedule your OSCE by viewing your NDEB account and paying the fee.

We want to make a special note here about this exam. In 2023, this will become the NDEB Virtual OSCE. This will combine the written examination and OSCE into one exam delivered electronically in a single day instead of two separate sessions.

You can take the OSCE up to three times, but we highly recommend working with a local preparation center specializing in helping ITDs get through the entire examination process with the NDEB equivalency program. We have a great article about the top Dental Training Institutes/ Centers that help ITDs.

Congratulations!

Once you have completed the OSCE, you have fulfilled all your obligations to be a dentist in Canada. All that is left is to send in your final application to the NDEB and them to issue you a license. That process can take a bit of time, but they are working hard to make it quick because dentists are so in demand right now.

You must communicate with the DRA (Dental Regulatory Authority) of the province where you want to practice. DRAs may require additional documentation or proof of specific skills.

Final Thoughts

There are some other nuances to this process, but we wanted to point out a few critical points. First, the cost of the equivalency is expensive. Every exam has its own fee:

♦ NDEB Profile & Paperwork – $900 CAD

♦ AFK – $800 CAD

♦ ACJ – $1,350 CAD

♦ NDECC – $9,000 CAD

♦ OSCE – $1,000 CAD

That is a total of $13,050 and does not include any preparatory help from dental study centers/institutes. If you wrap in those costs, you can expect to pay around $60,000 CAD for the entire process.

Of course, that is significantly less expensive than going back to college, but it is something you need to consider.

Second, you really should work with a dental clinic. There are significant differences in practicing dentistry in Canada compared to other countries, and you do not want to fail any of these exams as that can get expensive quickly.

Finally, speak to some ITDs who completed the equivalency program. We hear about so many questions on Facebook and Reddit that would fill a book to answer.

It really helps to join some of these groups to see if your question can be answered. Give us a follow on Facebook as we frequently post.

Also, Check Out

♦ 5 Best Ways to Finance Your NDEB Canada Exams for Internationally Trained Dentists

♦ How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Wrapping it Up

We hope this has been an informative resource for your research. It is a genuine pleasure to help ITDs come to Canada to open a dentistry practice. This is a wonderful country to set roots with many peer immigrants making the move because the job value and career outlook are so positive. Thank you for reading!

Instruments and Books

5 Best Ways to Finance Your NDEB Canada Exams for Internationally Trained Dentists

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date March 1, 2022

Even without the current political turmoil, international events causing refugees, and a global pandemic, there is still that desire inside each of us for a brighter, more reliably stable future life.

That is probably why so many people consider Canada an excellent option for moving. The annual immigration in Canada is around 300,000 new immigrants every year – one of the highest rates per population of any country in the world.

The simple truth is that Canada has been and probably will always be viewed as a culture of kind-hearted individuals.

Sure, Canadians have their challenges just like any other country, but the overall quality of life is relatively high. That is why so many internationally trained dentists seek a new career in the land of the maple leaf.

Canada’s dental equivalency process is a significant opportunity for ITDs. The current pay rate is higher than most other countries, and the social benefits far outweigh the challenges of getting across the border.

The only downside is that the costs of making this transition from an internationally trained dentist to a fully certified Canadian dentist are high.

You can expect to pay anywhere from $10K CAD to $15K CAD, and that is just for exam costs and registration fees. There is also the price tag of actual immigration and any schools or prep courses you may take to make it through the NDEB Canada process.

That is why we have decided to put together this little guide.

We want to ensure all ITDs seeking a brighter future as fully certified Canadian dentists get all the help they can get.

Here are our financial suggestions for getting you through the NDEB Canada Exams and into a solid career.

1 – Get a Transitional Job

While you may not be a full dentist in Canada, odds are you have dentistry experience and can use those same skills in a similar capacity by working in a different role.

There are many dentistry-related jobs that are high in demand and pay well enough to support a basic living while saving up or paying for your NDEB exam process.

Dental Assistant

There are a lot of openings for dental assistants in Canada because the demand for dentists is so high, and they need support staff. The average salary is between $38,000 to $48,000 CAD and is a great stepping stone to being a dental hygienist or researcher.

Essentially, you are the jack-of-all-trades that works closely under the dentist’s supervision.

Of course, every clinic will be different, and some provinces have laws that govern specific roles, but for the most part, you are the “gopher” for the practice.

This is a great opportunity for ITDs who need extra help with language requirements for immigration or downtime to study for their NDEB certification process.

To be a dental assistant in Canada, you will need to be certified through the National Dental Assisting Examining Board, which requires an exam.

You are supposed to have 10 months of education or formal training, but those requirements can be waived based on your previous experience as an ITD, depending on your country of origin.

Dental Assistant Salary per Region

Canadian Province	Ave. Hourly Salary in CAD
Alberta	$28.13
British Columbia	$26.00
Saskatchewan	$27.00
Nova Scotia	$21.00
Ontario	$21.43
Manitoba	$21.35

Source: https://www.livingin-canada.com/

Dental Hygienist

This is a popular option for many ITDs immigrating to Canada because many of the skills you use while performing this job are parallel to being a full-time dentist.

You will be working closely with patients, checking for oral cancers, preventing cavities, examining gums, and overall getting more experience with on-the-job reinforcement.

To be a dental hygienist in Canada, you need one of three options:

A 2-3 year advanced diploma.
A bachelor of dental hygiene.
A private college program for dental hygienists.

Your background as an Internationally Trained Dentist with a formal degree and experience may allow you to waive these educational requirements, but again, that requires speaking with a board or school to know if you qualify.

The really good news is the pay bump. The average salary for a dental hygienist in Canada is over $70,000 CAD, which sets you up nicely to afford the immigration process and pay for the NDEB equivalency process.

All the resources you need to become a qualified dental hygienist are available on The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association website.

Dental Hygienist Salary Canada

Location	Average Wage $ per hr
Alberta	56.00
British Columbia	42.00
Manitoba	40.60
Ontario	37.00
Quebec	30.00
Saskatchewan	42.00

Source: https://www.livingin-canada.com/

Dental Technician

While this can be an extremely lucrative transitional job for an ITD, it also requires a specific set of skills that may or may not be related to your educational background.

For example, most dentists have not spent a great deal of focus on repairing the devices used in crowns, bridges, dentures, or orthodontics. A lot of this activity requires the use of specific instrumentation that an ITD may have only a cursory understanding of using.

The good news is almost every province in Canada has a severe dental technician shortage, so finding help to get started in this career is fairly easy.

The average salary is about $53,000 CAD – $96,000 CAD depending on the clinic and province. The work environment tends to be relaxed because you are not dealing with patients directly, but usually fulfilling orders from other dentists.

To work as a dental technician in Canada, you will need to be:

A recipient of a dental technician degree or equivalent study from a recognized institution.
Provided services equivalent to a dental technician for at least 5 years and can prove your training, experience, and educational background.

Every province will be different, but you can get a solid understanding of the specifics of being a Dental Technician by checking out the British Columbia process here.

Average (Median) Hourly Wages for Dental Technicians in Canada

Location	Average Wage $ per hr
Alberta	25.81
British Columbia	22.00
Manitoba	19.23
Ontario	22.00
Quebec	23.00
Saskatchewan	22.00

Source: www.livingin-canada.com

Dental Office Administrators

We wanted to mention this transitional job for ITDs preparing for the NDEB exam and certification process not because it pays extremely well.

In fact, it is on the lower end of the spectrum at around $28-$52,000 CAD. Rather, this is a great job to learn the backend office skills necessary to run a full practice.

As a dental office admin, you will get to see the ins and outs of the Canadian healthcare system as well as solidify your understanding of the language and culture. This is excellent training for those ITDs with little to no experience with Canada.

2 – Get a Loan

Many ITDs immigrating to Canada for the NDEB equivalency process seek out private or public funding via loans. We always advise our readers to take a practical approach to this kind of situation. You do not want to be on the line for a large sum of money as you are immigrating without some source of income potential in the near future.

.There are many qualified lenders in Canada that will work the internationally trained dentists. This is because banks and private institutions are fully aware that the demand for dentists is high, and they are extremely likely to earn a small profit by lending to those going through the NDEB Canada exam process.

FCR Loan Programs

Foreign Credential Recognition or FCR programs are backed by provinces and the Canadian federal government. They offer incredibly low-interest rates of price + 1-2% and max out at around $15,000. You pay them back like you would any other normal loan.

To qualify for FCR loan programs, you must be:

NDEB registered with the approval
PR/Approved Refugee/Canadian Citizenship verified
Under a Study, Plan to take your NDEB certification process exam

Government Approved Private Lending

Many private institutions want to get in on the lending opportunities to ITDs. That is why Canada has created a microlending arm backed by their currency rates with interest rates of around prime plus 1-2% and a maximum amount of $15,000. These are good options to grow your credit rating in Canada.

To be eligible for government-approved private lending, you must be:

NDEB registered with the approval
PR/Approved Refugee/Canadian Citizenship verified
Under a Study, Plan to take your NDEB certification process exam

Private Banks ITD Bundle Programs

These bundled programs are designed to essentially fund you through the entire ITD to Canadian certified dentist process. You will get the funding you need if you have:

NDEB registration approval
Permanent Residency / Canadian Citizenship
650 or above credit score
Study plan

That means you will have needed to already have moved through the immigration process to qualify and have a credit history in Canada. You are also going to be on the line for a lot more money and that can get overwhelming quickly.

Windmill Microlending

They are committed to transparent lending practices based on reasonable rates and terms that can enhance your ability to fund the NDEB dentistry exam process.

To date, Windmill Microlending has approved more than 805 loans for newcomers in the field of dentistry. To learn more about Windmill Microlending programs, check out their website.

3 – Start a Side Hustle

It may seem strange for ITDs to check out social media for a business idea, but if you go on TikTok, Pinterest, or Reddit, you will find endless suggestions for starting a side hustle.

This could be anything from being a freelance writer to building a print-on-demand coffee mind business.

There is a lot of risk and reward to be had due to the digital age.

You can make a decent amount as an Uber driver in the right setting or build an Etsy shop with handmade products from your country of origin.

Like anything else in life, the possibilities are endless and require dedication and time to perfect.

Some suggestions for side hustles include:

Starting a dropshipping business
Wholesaling through Amazon/eBay
Freelancing online
Building an Etsy shop
Print on Demand
Affiliate Marketing
Blogger/YouTuber
Selling informational digital precuts
Virtual Assistant
Social Media Consultant
And plenty more programs.

4 – Secure a Job Ahead of Time

There is an often overlooked aspect ITDs rarely try because of fear or anxiety, and that is to reach out to dental practices ahead of time.

Building a solid network of peers within Canada is a great way to ensure you will have some kind of financial opportunity in the future. We highly recommend reaching out to practices, schools, and dentists in the provinces you wish to practice in after you have passed your certification process.

Sometimes they will have jobs you can perform while waiting for your NDEB exam. Always keep your communication polite and professional as these could be your peers in the future.

5 – Find a Job in an Unrelated Field

It may not be the most glamorous, but Canada is hiring for practically every municipal position you can imagine.

Like most of the world, Canada went through a job loss for a short period due to the pandemic. That created a lot of job openings in government, city, and municipal careers.

Many of these jobs pay well and offer you the opportunity to live in the country while you are working towards your NDEB exam.

Update your CV and cover letter so you can apply to any local organization, government, or business, and you may be surprised with how easy it is to secure a job.

Special Note for 2022 and Beyond

We wanted to point out that the NDEB equivalency process is currently under review. Because Canada is in such need of dentists, they are reevaluating the NDEB by reducing certain test requirements and lifting the restriction on how many times you can attempt the exam.

This story is still unfolding, but it looks like it will be even easier to immigrate to Canada as an ITD. We will keep you posted as new information is released, but we wanted to give you the heads up now.

You will see many prep schools and colleges changing their curriculums to meet these new requirements. This is good news for ITDs everywhere!

Also, Check Out

♦ 5 Best NDEB Canada Review Centers for Internationally Trained Dentists (ITD)

♦ How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Wrapping it Up

Canada is a wonderful country to move to, with plenty of opportunities for internationally trained dentists. The potential job market is wide open, and the earning salary range is excellent at an average of $126,750 CAD per year.

We highly recommend you review our site’s other information about the immigration process and requirements for your NDEB exam or equivalency process.

Our goal is to help you and all the other ITDs find a new home in the relaxing, naturally bountiful, and friendly culture of Canadian life.

HOME Instruments and Books International Dentist

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date February 17, 2022

Canada is currently ranked the number one country in the world according to the U.S. News & World Report.

That is the first time this northern territory has ranked so high, and it has to do with the balance of work, life, family, and enjoyment.

Canadian living is relaxed, where the majority of the country is laid back and friendly.

More importantly to all our international dental readers, Canada is currently experiencing a high demand for new dentists.

Population growth, an aging citizenry, labor shortages and technological advancement in diagnosis and treatment are drastically increasing the need for new dentists to enter the marketplace.

So much so that the current outlook is expected to grow at a higher than normal rate for the foreseeable future.

This is an excellent opportunity for internationals wishing to learn how to immigrate to Canada as a dentist.

Advantages of Moving to Canada as a Dentist

Besides the wonderful job offers available, when you immigrate to Canada, you get access to some of the best wages available. The expected salary for an average full time dentist is between $120,000 and $240,000 CAD annually.

Imagine moving from a country that pays 20-40% less than what you could be earning in Canada.

Not only that, but you will get excellent free healthcare through the national system (universal health coverage). In many cases, private healthcare is also included as a sign-on benefit which has dental coverage for specific private providers.

Yes, the income potential is high, but you also get to live in one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the world and most livable cities.

Canada is a rich, resource-heavy country that is dotted with cosmopolitan cities with varying cultures and historical centers.

You also get:

♦ A chance at Canadian Permanent Residency

♦ One of the most beneficial passports in the world upon full citizenship

♦ Access to internationally renowned universities

♦ Access social benefits

♦ Apply for Citizenship and Dual Nationality after four years

♦ Enjoy protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

Canada Express Entry System Openings

Express Entry system is the quickest way to immigrate to Canada as a dentist. This cuts down the entire Canadian Immigration process from years to only a few months. The point is to drive more skilled professional worker immigration to a nation with a growing population.

Being a dentist is a highly qualified occupation for Express Entry through the Federal Skilled Worker program (FSWP).

This is a competitive immigration system that ranks all eligible candidates against each other based on age, education, language ability, work experience, and other factors.

The Canadian government was kind enough to create the National Occupation Classification Codes that designate particular occupations currently high in demand. This includes dentist noc code under the NOC Code 3113, which covers:

♦ dental surgeon

♦ qualified dentist

♦ doctor of dental surgery

♦ endodontist

♦ general practicing dentist

♦ implantology dentistry

♦ the dental and oral surgeon

♦ the maxillofacial and oral surgeon

♦ medicine oral specialist

♦ oral pathologist

♦ maxillofacial surgery and oral pathology specialist

♦ oral radiologist

♦ orthodontist

♦ pediatric dentist

♦ Pedodontist

♦ periodontist

♦ prosthodontist

♦ public health dentist

♦ stomatologist

It is important to note that some occupations in the dental field are excluded. These include:

♦ Dental assistants

♦ Dental Hygienists and dental therapists

♦ Dental technologists, dental technicians, and laboratory assistants

♦ Denturists

Overall, you will want to take advantage of this federal skilled worker program because it grants you express entry into one of the best places to live and work as a licensed dentist.

Take Advantage of the Provincial Nomination Program

Another way to immigrate to Canada as a dentist is to engage in the PNP (Provincial Nomination Program).

These are unique criteria set by each of the 11 provinces in Canada that allow for a certain number of skilled workers to be nominated by the specific area for inclusion.

Provincial nomination can lead to permanent residency if you find private employers that are willing to sponsor you.

If you work with a school or program that helps you get into Canada as a dentist, you will probably learn a great deal about the Provincial Nomination (PNP) because these organizations have direct ties to the government.

They know how many dental jobs openings are available in each province and can help you to get set up.

The 11 provinces in Canada are:

♦ Alberta

♦ British Columbia

♦ Manitoba

♦ New Brunswick

♦ Newfoundland and Labrador

♦ Northwest Territories

♦ Nova Scotia

♦ Ontario

♦ Prince Edward Island

♦ Saskatchewan

♦ Yukon

The Canadian Immigration Application Process

We will now go over the complete process of immigrating to Canada as a dentist. Keep in mind that things may change periodically as the government issues new rules and regulations to the Canadian immigration policy depending on the number of people taking advantage of the different available programs.

Also, Check Out

♦ How to Become a Dentist in Canada (A Step by Step Guide)

♦ How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Step 1 – Determine Your Eligibility

Before you can figure out how to immigrate to Canada as a dentist, you need to make sure you meet the minimum qualifications required. There are over 80 different visa pathways to Canada, so odds are you probably meet at least one of them.

Every entry program will have its own minimum qualifications. For dentists using the Express Entry program, you must:

♦ Have at least one year of continuous full-time work experience in a skilled occupation (over the previous 10 years).

♦ Be able to meet the demands of the Canadian Language Benchmark language proficiency in either English or French.

♦ Hold a post-secondary degree that meets the Canadian standards of an Education Credential Assessment.

Essentially are you a qualified dentist in your home country that has worked full-time for at least a year and can speak English or French conversationally? If you can do that, you qualify.

Step 2 – Get Your Qualifications Accredited

To get your accreditation, you need to show evidence that your dental degree translates over to Canada. The easiest way to do this is through the ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) program.

They will verify that your information is correct from a recognized dental program, in a recognized institution.

The most common way this is done is during your Visa application. You can fill out a section that includes your educational studies and grants you points based on the level of study you have completed.

You will have to supply a decent amount of documentation for this step, so hiring an experienced immigration professional may be a wise decision.

Step 3 – Apply to the Dental Regulatory Authority (DRA)

You can do this by visiting the homepage of the province you wish to live within. They will direct you to the DRA for that provincial government (territorial regulatory body). If you elect to use a different migration process, then this is where you start those programs. That includes:

♦ Express Entry

♦ PNP (Provincial Nominee Program)

♦ Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot – this requires a valid job offer from an RNIP participant

♦ Atlantic Immigration Pilot – sending skilled workers to the 4 Atlantic provinces with a formal job offer of at least 1 year

Step 4 – Either Take an NDEB Equivalency Process or Complete an Accredited Qualifying/Degree Completion Program

The most common step here for internationally trained dentists is to complete the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) series of admittance exams.

You can find many different organizations that will help you prepare to sit these tests if it has been a while since you last reviewed the information.

We strongly encourage you to work with dental review centers that teach you everything you need to know for these exams.

They provide you access to the critical information needed to practice in Canada as a dentist, as well as connect you with many of the networks and job opportunities in their local area.

If you do not wish to take the exam but would rather finish a degree completion program (university degree), you can work with these same institutions or apply to any of the high-quality schools and universities available in Canada.

You may be eligible for a student visa while completing your education which is another foot in the doorway to immigrate to Canada as a dentist.

Step 5 – Complete all Paperwork and Applications

This is what we will refer to as the “fuzzy part.” To put it bluntly, this paperwork requires a spate degree on its own. There is a lot of bureaucracy in the Canadian government that requires exact documentation and details in order to verify all parts of your application process.

We highly suggest working with an immigration attorney or one of the dental organizations listed in our other blog posts to complete this step.

Step 6 – Practice!

With everything else completed, a certification in your pocket, and a dental work offer on the horizon. You are now ready to practice dentistry in Canada. The last thing you will need to do is make your way to Canada and activate your visa.

Getting Connected with an Immigration Consultant

When you are deciding how to immigrate to Canada as a dentist, you should engage the services of an immigration consultant. These are known as RCICs (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants) and have been given the designation as experts in their fields.

Hiring an RCIC practically guarantees that you will successfully navigate the ever-changing immigration policies, laws, and visa opportunities currently being offered to your profession.

FAQs

Can you immigrate to Canada as a dentist?

Yes! Not only are you capable of immigrating as a human being, but a dental background has high demand and opens more opportunities than others.

What about if I am from India?

There is a vibrant Canadian-Indian community throughout the country. You will find a lot of support when moving to Canada as an Indian dentist.

Can I bring my family with me as I immigrate to Canada?

Yes, as a visa holder, you are able to pass on your immigration to your spouse and children automatically. If your partner has advanced skills or education, you actually benefit by moving as a family.

Will I be selected to immigrate to Canada as a dentist?

The Express Entry candidate pool is highly competitive. It involves CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points to determine your rank inside the pool. Getting a job offer, having a solid educational background, proving working experience, and more increases your chance of being selected in the PNP program or express entry.

Do I have to have a job offer in order to immigrate to Canada as a dentist?

There are three main ways to immigrate to Canada as a dentist:

♦ Using Express Entry

♦ With a valid job offer or arranged employment from a Canadian based employer

♦ Under the PNP or RPNP programs

How much money do I need to have?

This will vary wildly on your own personal circumstance. We can tell you that the cost for the Express Entry program will be roughly $2,300 CAD for an individual and $4,500 CAD for a couple.

This does not include settlement funds which start at $13,000 CAD for an individual.

That is the amount of money the government wants to see you have available after moving.

Why is it so easy to immigrate to Canada and not the US?

Canadian cities depend on the immigration population. Unlike the US, Canada embraces its immigrants to bolster the labor market. This is also why Canada has one of the most reliable currencies in the world.

Are there age requirements?

This is another “fuzzy area” of immigration. The best ages are going to be between 25-35 because those are viewed as having a lot of work years ahead of them where people are contributing to the overall economy.

However, there are no age limits on immigration as Canada recognizes the value in older immigrants because of their experience and skills.

Wrapping it Up

Learning how to immigrate to Canada as a dentist is a long and complex process. There are a lot of steps you need to follow and comprehensive paperwork that must be verified and filled out with a high level of accuracy.

We strongly encourage you to follow up with an RCIC for the complete details, but we hope this guide has offered the basic overview so you can get the ball rolling.

As always, be sure to check out the rest of our site for more information.

We are the leading source of info for ITDs looking to build a new life in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Karen Nunez is a practicing dental health care professional in Alberta, Canada. She’s passionate about educating her readers on achieving optimum dental health through extensive research on the latest dental topics and providing science-backed product recommendations. Her mission to help Internationally -trained dentists integrate in Canada makes her a difference maker in her field.

In her free time, you can find her glued to her favorite Paulo Coelho books and concocting the best chocolate cupcakes her loved ones go crazy about.

Instruments and Books International Dentist POPULAR POSTS

4 Best NDEB Canada Training Institutes for Internationally Trained Dentists (ITD)

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date February 8, 2022

Updated July 1, 2023

Canada- the land of maple syrup, fresh air, and a provincial kindness known the world over is actively seeking more dentists. Overseas-trained dentists are now eligible for permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Immigration Program. That means if you have the qualifications and are willing to take the NDEB Canada exams, you too could find a new life in one of the most beautiful and naturally resource-rich countries in the world.

Over the last few decades, more and more of the public has been waking up to the fact that quality dental health is critical to the entire body. Nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 20-64 have cavities in the US alone. So it only makes sense that the demand for quality dental care and professionally trained dentists is rising.

Canada is one of the best places for Internationally Trained Dentists (ITDs) to immigrate. It is considered a leading economy as far as income and starting salaries. Not to mention the food is fantastic, the people are friendly, and the culture is surprisingly diverse.

So as an ITD seeking your Canadian qualifications, how do you get started? Where do you find the answers to how to become a dentist in Canada?

Luckily you landed in our community because we have put together a stellar list of the best 5 coaching centers that will take you from newly arrived immigrant to dental superstar in no time. First, a little background.

What is the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) Canada Exam Process?

The individual steps you will need to succeed are going to depend on your background, dental education, and country of origin. There are subtle differences in dental practice between a South American country and a European country, and finding that happy middle ground while ensuring you have Canadian-based training and dental education is essential.

In general, you can expect these steps:

♦ Go to the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) website and create a login account.

♦ Fill out the forms on the website and submit all required documents.

♦ Take the AFK (Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge)

♦ Either take the ACJ or NDECC Exams. Otherwise, you’ll need to take a Degree Completion Program.

♦ Go through the Certification Process by taking the NDEB written exam and OSCE exam.

There are other subtleties about the pathways for how to become a dentist in Canada for internationally trained dentist (ITDs) that you can read more about from our blog post here.

That may seem like a massive amount of info, and you’re right. It is. The good news is that you can get help from qualified and experienced dental centers that specialize in helping internationally trained dentists through the immigration and qualification process.

Also, Check Out

♦ 5 Best Ways to Finance Your NDEB Canada Exams for Internationally Trained Dentists

♦ How to Prepare for TOEFL Test in Canada

Here is our list of NDEB Canada Coaching Centers for internationally-trained dentists

1. Prep Doctors- Best All-Around and Highest Rated Coaching Program

Prep Doctors was founded in 2011 and offer preparatory courses targeting the NDEB exams, specially designed for foreign-trained dentists. This is an organization full of dentists and specialists from all over the world coming together to help infuse the Canadian dental world with highly trained and qualified licensed dentists.

This is an excellent company if you are entirely new to the Canadian culture and need advice from people who have been in your shoes before. They offer a ton of bespoke dental sciences courses and are a Certified Educational Institution by the Canadian government with an A+ rating from the BBB, meaning they deliver on their promise of quality.

ITDs that use Prep Doctors are twice as likely to pass the NDEB’s clinical skills and situational judgment exam because this center focuses on simulating the exam environment as much as possible.

Students’ Reviews (Source: Prep Doctors Facebook Page)

♦ Sarah Salem – I highly recommend prep doctors for sure! They helped me to pass AFK, and ACJ and I just passed my ACS from the first attempt with all A/A+ results! I can’t thank enough everyone on the team for feeling like a family, helping and leading us to success step by step.

♦ Ali Al-Ezzi – Huge thanks to PrepDrs team for all the hard work they put into the ACS Course, their course is well structured, sufficient, and exam-oriented. The staff is very friendly. Strongly Recommended.

2. DSTC Dental

Most dental centers in Canada will instruct ITD students about the NDEB exams as well as some information about practicing in the United States. DSTC Dental wraps that education into its programming from the beginning. If you are an ITD looking to learn how to become a dentist in Canada with your sights set on eventually going to the USA, this may be your best option.

DSTC has the exam prep and technical equipment needed to get you through the tests of the NDEB examination. They also have a heavy presence in India which is helpful as Indian Canadians have the highest volume of immigrants moving into the country. It really helps to have a dental center that leans more towards the country Canada receives the most internationally trained dentists.

DSTC does not have as many locations as some of the other centers on our list but hits the big three in Calgary, Toronto, and Vancouver. They are a little on the higher side as far as fees are concerned at around $4,350 CAD for the NDECC program, but you also get access to an extensive student alumni network which helps you secure a placement after completing your credentials.

Visit DSTC Dental

3. Confidentist

The nice thing about ConfiDentist is the brand messaging and access to incredible resources. This dental center may not have all the bells and whistles of an entire dental school, but it comes incredibly close.

When you study how to become a dentist in Canada, you need access to in-depth clinical resources, technology, practical classrooms, and more. Those are all available with ConfiDentist. They place a high value on mock testing and practical skills, which many ITDs find refreshing as the quickest way to learn something new is to physically give it a try.

Tuition runs anywhere from $1,000 and up depending on the coursework you wish to take. We highly suggest checking ConfiDentist out through its social media. They have a decent presence that will give you valuable insight into whether or not this is the dental center for your ITD transition to a fully qualified and certified Canadian dental practice.

Visit ConfiDentist

4. Scholars Dental

The first thing you’ll notice about Scholars Dental is their commitment to the AFK exam. This is the first step after signing up for Canadian qualification as an internationally trained dentist which requires some real work.

With Scholars Dental, you get a personalized learning plan that combines live sessions, online videos, and flexible payment plans that you can use from anywhere in the world. We like this dental center because it is a great barometer for figuring out if the move to Canada will be right for you or not.

Before you spend a lot of resources moving to Canada and trying to find a place to live, it makes sense to use a dental center like this to ensure you are really ready.

The dental institute offers a free consultation before you begin so you can learn more about funding and payment options.

Students’ Reviews (Source: Prep Scholars Dental Facebook Page)

♦ Nada Oag – Best decision I made was to go along with this course! Big thank you to Dr. Ahmad, Dr. Hajer, and Dr. Sherief for simplifying things for us.

Your Source of NDEB Canada Information for Foreign-Trained Dentists

We hope this post has been helpful and directed you toward a quality future as a Canadian dentist. Every one of these centers can offer you a lot of help, guidance, and training needed to pass the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) Canada exams and qualifications.

If you would like to learn more about the entire process of immigrating to Canada with your dental background, be sure to browse the rest of our website.

We are the number one trusted source for ITDs looking to navigate the process of how to become a dentist in Canada and are constantly updating our site with the latest tools, resources, and support you need.

Do us a big favor. When you do contact these dental centers, let them know we sent you over. There is always an opportunity to grow with these fantastic organizations so we can create a smooth transition for all ITDs as they make a move to the natural beauty and incredible culture of Canadian living.

Thank you again, and good luck!

HOME Oral Care Related Posts

4 Best Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners) of 2023

Post author By Karen Nunez
Post date January 22, 2022

Admit it, you’ve probably stood in front of the mirror dreaming of the perfect smile. A true eye magnet. We all have.

But the sheer cost and time of traditional orthodontic treatment make it nothing more than a pipe dream.

But what if it didn’t have to be?

Enter at-home clear aligners.

Yes, even some parts of dentistry have moved online. Who would’ve thought? Now, you can get straighter without stepping a single foot out of the house. And no, your dentist doesn’t set up shop in your living room, but they can send you some life-changing products to bring out a new you.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll talk about the ins and outs of at-home teeth alignment treatment and shed light on why it’s important, how the process works, and the best at-home aligner brands to look out for.

What Are Invisible Braces or Clear Aligners?

Also known as invisible aligners, clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment for misaligned or crooked teeth. They apply constant pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into shape like braces. But unlike braces, they’re virtually invisible and removable. An aligner tray is customized for every patient, depending on the degree of tooth misalignment (malocclusion).

Types Of Invisible Braces

The following are the three types of invisible braces:

Clear Aligners

These are the most popular and widely-used types of invisible braces. They consist of clear plastic trays, each slightly smaller than the previous one, to gradually move your teeth into place.

Trays apply low-force pressure to the teeth and advance them over time. It takes an average of 18 months for this process to complete.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are basically the same as clear aligners regarding how they work and what they achieve. Unlike their plastic counterparts, however, ceramic braces are made from a thin layer of ceramic that makes them more aesthetically pleasing than clear aligners.

Although metal braces are more visible, clear ceramic brackets make them far less. These may take as little as six months to show results.

Lingual Braces

Like traditional braces, lingual braces employ a bracket-and-wire design to align teeth and repair bite problems. These types of braces attach to your tongue side (underside) rather than the fronts like other kinds.

Lingual braces are almost invisible and make for a much more aesthetically-pleasing look, but there’s one major drawback: they can be pretty uncomfortable.

What Material Are Invisible Braces Composed Of?

Clear and ceramic braces are made of transparent thermoplastic acrylics, making them more aesthetically pleasing than metal braces. They can be removed while drinking & eating though you may experience discomfort when wearing the trays for long periods.

When Do I Need Clear Aligners?

Perhaps you’re tired of metal braces and don’t like the way they look. If that’s the case, you should definitely consider investing in invisible or clear aligners instead.

Or perhaps your teeth are still growing, and traditional braces could threaten your growth plates.

However, dental aligners are capable of treating a variety of different cases. If you have one of the following conditions, then you could be a good candidate for aligners:

» Crowded Teeth – Also known as malocclusion, crowded teeth are when the upper and lower jaws don’t line up properly. This can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and gum recession. It Happens in small mouths, where teeth overlap one another, stick out, and/or get pushed inside.

» Crooked Teeth – Teeth that don’t stand front-faced and straight are considered crooked. It may happen when you’re still growing, but it can also indicate more significant problems in the jaw or skull.

» Diastema – Small or large gaps between the teeth are known as diastema. Minor spaces can develop in any mouth area, but they are frequently seen between the two upper front teeth.

» Overbites – The upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth to form an overbite. Overbites are generally caused when the upper jaw is too big for the lower one, but it can also signify an unbalanced bite.

» Underbites -Lower front teeth overlap with the upper front teeth to form an underbite. This is normally caused when the lower jaw is too small for the upper one, but it also happens due to an unbalanced bite.

» Open Bites – It’s called an open bite when the outward-slanting front upper and lower teeth don’t touch one another. This is usually caused by excessive over or underbite.

» Misaligned Primary (Baby) Teeth – Clear aligners may be used during phase I orthodontic treatment to make room for the developing permanent teeth and existing baby teeth. Suitable for children between ages 6 to 10.

In-Office Aligners vs. At-Home Aligners

Clear aligners come in two types:

The most popular option among aligners is in-office alignment. These aligners must be received from a licensed doctor and more intensive treatment.

At-home aligners, also known as direct-to-consumer aligners, are less expensive than in-office aligners. Since the application and treatment are completed remotely (your aligner is delivered), you won’t have to visit a dentist or orthodontist for checkups. It’s the future of clear aligners.

At-home and in-office aligners are both made from clear, medical-grade, BPA-free plastic (BPA-free products are those that do not contain the organic chemical Bisphenol A in their construction.). Some aligners may or may not touch your gums. With a ‘scalloped’ design, the trays sit comfortably along your gum line, making the trays less irritating and even more invisible.

The gum line is not trimmed in other aligners (most options at home). As a result, they partially cover your gums and might cause more irritation at first. But most people aren’t bothered by it as the discomfort is minor. For this article, we’ll be talking about at-home aligners.

How To Get Dental Aligners? – The 4-Step Process

If you’re looking to straighten teeth, you’re probably also curious to know how the entire dental alignment transaction works. In this short section, we outline the process for getting your at-home invisible aligners:

1. Get a Customized Treatment Plan

The first step is to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist or order online for an impression kit. In person, a dentist will examine your teeth and scan your mouth, or for the at-home teeth aligning treatment, you can send back the impression kit with the mold of your teeth (after biting into the “goopy putty”).

An individualized treatment plan will then be developed—we won’t bore you with this part; just let the experts handle it.

2. Your Aligners Are Made and Delivered

Using 3D technology, your custom treatment plan will be digitally created once your teeth impressions from the goopy putty have been inputted. Following approval of the digital models, the aligners are made in a production facility.

As soon as you accept treatment, the process begins. It can take up to 3 weeks for some aligner brands to ship you the product. The preliminary impression kits usually take less time to reach your door.

3. Wear and Replace Your Aligners Accordingly

You’ll replace your aligner trays every one to three weeks (they’ll be sent to you periodically). For teeth straightening to be effective, you need to wear them for about 20 to 22 hours a day.

Single aligners can only move teeth slightly (1 mm or less), so multiple aligners are needed.

The teeth will slowly move into the correct position with each set of aligners. You’re looking at anywhere between 3 and 24 months to complete the treatment.

4. Flex That Smile at Day, Keep It Conditioned at Night

Once treatment is complete, a custom retainer is created from a mold of your newly straightened teeth. These nighttime aligners are meant to be worn every night while sleeping to ensure your teeth don’t slowly move back to their original position.

6 Reasons Why Should I Get Clear Aligners

1. Get a Straighter Smile Without Visible Braces Comfortably

At-home aligners are practically invisible. With a custom treatment plan, your teeth will move almost imperceptibly to you and others—save for the increase in your smile’s brilliance.

These appliances are almost undetectable when worn on the teeth since the aligners don’t require brackets and metal wires.

If you have many interactions with others and your smile plays a big role, clear aligners can help maintain your confidence and approachability.

Aesthetic dental anomalies have shown to be a strong motive for bullying children, especially affecting their upbringing and social development. That includes braces themselves. So people who suffer from social anxiety and insecurities can take the subtler route with invisible aligners and fix their teeth.

2. An Affordable and Convenient Option

Straightening teeth was previously both expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, today’s invisible aligners provide a less expensive alternative.

You don’t have to go anywhere for any procedures. Instead of spending time at the orthodontist’s office, you can get the procedure done in your home—no hassle or time wasted.

3. They Are More Convenient to Use

Unlike traditional braces that restrict your menu options to foods like hard, chewy, and brittle, clear aligners can be taken out while you eat.

4. Less Risk of Chronic Conditions and Injuries

Your oral and overall health can be negatively affected by misaligned teeth. Overcrowding can result in excessive wear and tear on your enamel since they’re grinding on each other so much. Teeth that protrude can also cause discomfort in your mouth and even lead to speech problems and headaches.

Not to mention, misaligned teeth and jaws have been shown to affect mental health, especially in children and teenagers who get bullied for crooked teeth and thus have low levels of confidence and self-esteem.

On a more positive note, clear aligners treatment has been shown to improve periodontal health significantly.

5. Easier to Maintain Proper Dental Hygiene

Clear aligners have been shown to facilitate oral hygiene and reduce the number of appointments and emergency visits.

Besides taking out the aligners when you want to eat, removable clear aligners allow you to clean your gums, teeth, and other dental parts thoroughly.

And, the removable aligners themselves can be cleaned separately, so you won’t have to try and maneuver your toothbrush around delicate wires and brackets.

6. Reduced treatment times- Results in as little as 12 Months!

Source

Compared to metal braces, clear aligners may reduce treatment time by half. Clear aligners usually treat your alignment problem in as little as twelve months, while traditional metal braces can take over two years to work.

But only your dentist can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment time estimate based on your alignment issues.

We recommend products we genuinely believe may be beneficial to your oral and dental health. If you purchase the products using the links below, we may earn some affiliate commissions. Please read our policy here for more information.

Best Clear Aligner Brands: Your Best Options

You’ve learned all you need to know about clear aligners. Now, you might be looking for directions. Where do you go to buy the best invisible braces? In this section, we’ve reviewed the best possible options based on public approval and service.

1. NewSmile

NewSmile is a pretty recent company founded in early 2020—but they skyrocketed to stardom for their fantastic service. With NewSmile, you can have clear aligner treatment designed remotely and administered from the comfort of your own home.

Pricing	$1899/ yr or $83/ mo (As of Jun. 12, 2022)
Night aligners Pricing	$2099/yr or $91/mo (As of Jun. 12, 2022)
Treatment Length	4 mos-10 mos
TeleDentistry	Yes
0% Down Payment	Available with a monthly plan.
Impression Kit	$89
Shipping	Front Door Delivery Impression Kit Free Shipping

Get The Latest Price

Pros

» NewSmile costs $1,499. Even though this isn’t the absolute cheapest option available for teeth alignment in Canada, it still represents thousands of dollars less than braces or Invisalign, as well as nearly $800 less than SmileDirectClub.

» You can keep track of your progress with the NewSmile Aligner Monitoring App.

» The NewSmile customer satisfaction rating is excellent. Even though they don’t have as many customer reviews as some of their competitors, we were able to find more than 100 reviews of their services, most of them positive.

» If at the end of your treatment, your smile does not match the one in your treatment preview, NewSmile will “work with you to identify the cause, and will help you achieve the results you desired.”

Cons

» You might not be getting the most specialized treatment since they use a team that includes both orthodontists and general dentists.

» Nighttime-only aligners from NewSmile cost $200 more, even though they’re exactly the same as the all-day aligners.

2. SmilePath

SmilePath is another at-home invisible aligners provider. They’re unique because they make clear aligners financially accessible to anyone, even if their credit score needs some work.

Simply make an order online and send your molded teeth to them. They’ll evaluate your eligibility and send you image previews for what your teeth might look like at the end of the treatment. Like what you see? They’ll start making your aligners as soon as you approve and ship them to you within a few weeks.

Pricing	$1499 – one time $84/mo (18 mos) $234/mo (6 mos) (As of Jun. 12, 2022)
Night aligners Pricing	$1599 – one time $89/month (18 mos) $284/month (12 months) (As of Jun. 12, 2022
Treatment Length	6 mos. – 8 mos.
TeleDentistry	Yes
0% Down Payment	Available for an 18-month plan. $295 for 12-month plan $299 for Night Aligner 12-month plan
Impression Kit	$55
Shipping	FREE shipping within Australia (Up to 3 weeks)

Get The Latest Price

Pros

» As an additional convenience, SmilePath offers a nighttime option so that you can wear your aligners only at night.

» The pricing for at-home clear aligners from SmilePath is the lowest available. Additionally, they frequently provide discounts on their website, which further cut their great rates.

» They have an excellent customer service team that can answer all of your tough questions professionally and politely.

» They use high-quality plastic aligners produced by supplier Retainer Essix, with over 15 years of industry experience.

Cons

» While some of their competitors offer free tooth scanning in their physical offices, SmilePath requires you to make your own molds of your teeth.

» Although SmilePath aligns your teeth more quickly than braces or Invisalign, it is not the fastest option. Other brands can complete the alignment in only three months, while SmilePath usually takes at least six months.

» The aligners won’t arrive as quickly as others, so you might have to begin your treatment a week or two later c