ACFD Bridge Training Program Canada Opens New Opportunities

ACFD Bridge Training Program Canada

From Global Classrooms to Canadian Clinics: ACFD’s Bridge Training Program Opens New Doors

dr sujit pradhan mentor

Written By:

Dr. Sujit Pradhan
BDS, MBA

Table of Content:

Introduction: ACFD Bridge Training Program Canada

As a practicing dentist here in Canada, I’ve seen firsthand how rewarding and evolving the field of dentistry can be. Canadian dentists enjoy high job satisfaction, competitive incomes, and the unique privilege of making a tangible difference in people’s lives — improving oral health and confidence in ways that extend far beyond the clinic.

Dentistry in Canada emphasizes ethical practice, patient-centered care, innovation, and lifelong learning. This creates a professional journey that is not only fulfilling personally but also socially impactful, allowing us to contribute meaningfully to our communities.

11335

The Growing Need for Dentists in Canada

Despite Canada’s strong healthcare system, the dentist-to-patient ratio varies widely across the country. In urban centers like the Greater Toronto Area, there is roughly one dentist per one thousand patients, while in rural regions such as New Brunswick, there is only one dentist per two thousand one hundred people. This uneven distribution creates significant access challenges for many Canadians.

With the upcoming Canadian Dental Care Plan aiming to provide care for millions more Canadians, the demand for skilled dental professionals is expected to rise even further. This presents an excellent opportunity for internationally trained dentists to contribute to Canada’s oral health landscape.

Introducing the ACFD Bridge Training Program

Recognizing the need for skilled dental professionals, the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD) and the Federal Government of Canada, has launched the Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada (BTDPC) program — a major milestone for internationally trained dentists seeking licensure and practice in Canada.

This initiative provides a structured, competency-based training pathway to help qualified dentists transition smoothly into the Canadian dental profession while maintaining national standards of care.

About ACFD and Its Mission

The ACFD’s mission is to serve as the national voice and resource for academic dentistry in Canada, advancing teaching, research, and service activities across its member faculties while fostering collaboration and communication within the dental education community.

The ACFD has five main goals:

  1. Establish visibility as the focal point of academic dentistry in Canada.
  2. Promote faculty development at Canadian Faculties of Dentistry.
  3. Facilitate collaboration among Canadian Faculties of Dentistry to enhance teaching, research, and leadership.
  4. Advocate on behalf of the Canadian Faculties of Dentistry.
  5. Serve as a national resource for areas of academic interest.

How ACFD’s Bridge Training Differs from the Current NDEB Pathway

 Currently, internationally trained dentists seeking licensure in Canada must complete:

  1. The NDEB Assessments, including:

  • Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)

  • Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ)

  • National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence (NDECC)

  • OSCE

2. This pathway is primarily exam-based, requiring candidates to pass high-stakes tests to demonstrate competency and is very expensive.

The ACFD BTDPC program, in contrast

  • Offers a structured bridge training program of approximately eight months, combining clinical training, mentorship, and competency development.
  • Provides a more guided and supported pathway to clinical practice, rather than relying solely on high-stakes testing.
  • During the pilot phase (2025–2026), graduates still complete the NDEB Clinical Component (NDECC) for licensure, but the program is expected to evolve into a fully recognized training route that could reduce dependence on high-stakes exams in the future.
  • Focuses on integration into Canadian dental practice, including understanding local protocols, patient-centered care, and regional practice requirements — aspects not fully addressed in the standard NDEB exam process.

Who Can Apply

 The BTDPC program is open to graduates of a minimum four-year recognized university dental program who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents on or before the application deadline.

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Have successfully passed the NDEB Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) and Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ) within the last three years.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, both written and spoken.

The first application window opened  in February 2025.

Program Locations and Duration

The pilot program will be conducted at three leading Canadian universities:

  • University of Alberta (Alberta)

  • Dalhousie University (Nova Scotia)

  • Université Laval (Québec)

The training duration is approximately eight months, with final placement determined during the application process.

Program Fees and Pilot Details

The BTDPC is currently in a two-year pilot phase, during which its structure, curriculum, and outcomes will be carefully evaluated.

Estimated Fees (2025–2026):

  • Application Fee: $250

  • Assessment Fee: $500

  • Training Fee: $10,000

During the first pilot year, graduates will still be required to pass the NDEB Clinical Component (NDECC) to obtain full licensure. However, this requirement may evolve in the second pilot year as the program becomes standardized.

Simpli Boards: Your Trusted Partner in AFK and Upcoming ACJ Preparation

 At Simpli Boards, we’ve proudly supported thousands of internationally trained dentists on their journey toward NDEB success. With over 2,500 dentists trained and a 99% pass rate, our AFK preparatory program is globally recognized for its accuracy, accessibility, and affordability.

To further support this journey, Simpli Boards is soon launching its ACJ program, offering comprehensive clinical judgment training aligned with the latest NDEB competencies — giving candidates the knowledge and confidence to qualify for transformative programs like the BTDPC.

Final Thoughts

16260

 The ACFD Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada is more than just a program — it’s a vision to make the Canadian dental profession more inclusive, equitable, and accessible.

As the demand for qualified dentists continues to rise, this initiative provides internationally trained professionals with a credible and structured pathway to integrate into Canadian practice.

And when you’re ready to begin that journey, Simpli Boards will be right by your side — helping you excel in AFK, master ACJ, and achieve your dream of practicing dentistry in Canada.

Tags:
Share

Related posts

Leave a comment