ONTARIO: Canada has welcomed a record-breaking number of foreign-trained dentists in 2024, reflecting the country's growing demand for skilled dental professionals. According to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), 740 immigrant dentists arrived in Canada by July, marking a significant 60% increase compared to the same period in 2023. From January to August, the total number of dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, and therapists, reached 865.
Between 2022 and 2031, Canada is projected to face a national labour shortage in dentistry, with an estimated 13,500 job openings for dentists against only 10,500 job seekers, according to the Canadian Occupational Projections System (COPS). This gap is primarily driven by retirements (44%) and employment growth (43%), signaling a robust demand for dental professionals.
The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program under the Express Entry system remains the preferred pathway for immigrant dentists, offering flexibility to live and work anywhere in Canada. Other notable pathways include the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which targets specific provincial needs, and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), catering to smaller communities.
In 2024, 115 dentists immigrated through the PNP by July, setting a new record. Ontario emerged as a key destination, welcoming 120 dentists in 2024—a sharp increase compared to just five dentists in 2021.
While the influx of immigrant dentists highlights Canada’s booming dental sector, not all regions have benefited equally. Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Newfoundland and Labrador reported substantial growth in dental office jobs in 2023, while territories like Nunavut and the Northwest Territories faced declines, reflecting persistent regional disparities.
Canada’s dental sector has rebounded strongly post-pandemic. By October 2024, the sector grew by an additional $851 million compared to 2019, underscoring its importance in the evolving labour market. Recent IRCC policies, such as the category-based selection launched in 2023, have further prioritized healthcare occupations, including dentists, to address persistent labour shortages.
The record number of foreign-trained dentists immigrating to Canada in 2024 demonstrates the nation’s commitment to addressing labour shortages and supporting its growing healthcare demands. With targeted immigration policies and strategic investments in healthcare, Canada is set to maintain its position as an attractive destination for skilled professionals in dentistry.