Continuing Education (CE) Requirements for Canadian Dental Professionals
Why is Continuing Education (CE) Necessary for Certification?
CE requirements ensure that dental professionals maintain their knowledge and skills, staying current with advancements in the field. This helps uphold the integrity and reputation of certification and ensures high-quality patient care across Canada.
What are the Benefits of FP Canada-Approved CE Activities?
FP Canada-Approved CE Activities ensure that the content aligns with professional standards, eliminating the need for professionals to assess or calculate CE credits themselves. This ensures seamless maintenance of certification.
Auditing and Tracking CE Activities
FP Canada conducts random audits to verify compliance with CE requirements. Dental professionals can utilize FP Canada's Continuing Education Search Tool to find approved CE activities and track completed credits.
Professional Responsibility Category
This mandatory category ensures that professionals maintain ethical standards and adhere to professional codes of conduct. These activities focus on the practical application of ethical standards in dental practice, rather than simply presenting information.
Continuing Education Requirements by Province/Territory
The CE requirements vary across provinces and territories. Here’s a breakdown by region:
| Province/Territory | Dentists | Dental Hygienists | Dental Assistants |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 90 credits every 3 years | 75 credits every 3 years | 36 credits every 3 years |
| Alberta | 60 credits every 2 years | 30 credits every 2 years | 15 credits every 2 years |
| Saskatchewan | 45 credits per year | 22.5 credits per year | No mandatory requirement (encouraged) |
| Manitoba | 60 credits every 2 years | 30 credits every 2 years | 12 credits every 2 years |
| Ontario | 90 credits every 3 years | 45 credits every 3 years | No mandatory requirement (encouraged) |
| Quebec | 60 credits every 2 years | 30 credits every 2 years | No mandatory requirement |
| New Brunswick | 60 credits every 2 years | 30 credits every 2 years | No mandatory requirement |
| Nova Scotia | 90 credits every 3 years | 45 credits every 3 years | 24 credits every 3 years |
| Prince Edward Island | 45 credits per year | 22.5 credits per year | No mandatory requirement |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 60 credits every 2 years | 30 credits every 2 years | 24 credits every 3 years |
General Requirements for All Provinces/Territories
- Course Providers: CE courses must be approved by the respective provincial/territorial regulatory body or a recognized accrediting organization.
- Course Categories: These typically include clinical topics, practice management, ethics, and jurisprudence.
- Record Keeping: Professionals are required to maintain certificates of completion for a specified period, often 3-5 years, depending on the province/territory.
- Audits: Regulatory bodies may conduct random CE audits to ensure compliance.
Learn More from FP Canada's Website
