Welcome to the BC Dental Association

THE VOICE OF BC DENTISTS

BECOME A MEMBER
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Create a Culturally Safe Dental Office

There are two levels of dental assisting in BC:

Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) are trained in diploma courses held in colleges throughout the province. They are trained to assist the dentist during treatment of the patient and are qualified to carry out some procedures on patients under the direction of the dentist.

Dental Assistants require no formal training because training will be provided “on the job” by the dentist. The duties that can be performed by a chairside assistant are limited, and unlike those of certified dental assistant, do not include procedures carried out on the patient.

Career Trek Video: A Day with a Dental Assistant

Certified Dental Assisting Programs in BC

Accredited Programs 

Non-Accredited Programs

Western Community College Surrey and Abbotsford

Online Certified Dental Assisting Programs

General Requirements for Enrollment in CDA Programs*

  • BC Grade 12 graduation/equivalent or mature student status
  • C or 65% or higher grade in English 12; Biology 12
  • BC Government Criminal Record Check
  • Proof of immunization status
  • Valid Standard First Aid/CPR Level C certificate
  • Proof of negative TB status
  • Computer literacy

*contact schools for specific entrance requirements

More Information