This FAQ explains what the NDAEB is, who needs it, where it’s required, and how you can obtain it.
📘 What is the NDAEB and Why Is It Important?
If you're a dental professional in Canada, especially aspiring or practicing Intra-Oral Dental Assistants, understanding the NDAEB is essential.
🦷 What is the NDAEB?
The National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) is the official certifying body for dental assistants in Canada. It ensures that dental assistants across the country meet a consistent national standard of knowledge and clinical skills.
The NDAEB offers:
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A written exam that tests theoretical knowledge
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A Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) in certain cases to assess hands-on skills
Passing the NDAEB exam is a key step to becoming a licensed intra-oral dental assistant in many Canadian provinces.
👩⚕️ Who Needs the NDAEB Certificate?
You need the NDAEB certificate if you are looking to work as an Intra-Oral Dental Assistant in Canada and perform Level II intra-oral duties, such as:
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Polishing teeth
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Taking dental radiographs (x-rays)
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Applying sealants, topical anesthetics, and fluoride
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Impressions and whitening procedures
Most employers and provincial regulators require proof of NDAEB certification as part of the licensing or registration process.
📍 Which Provinces Require the NDAEB?
The NDAEB is required in all provinces except Quebec. Here's a provincial breakdown:
| Province/Territory | NDAEB Certificate Required? |
|---|---|
| Alberta | ✅ Yes |
| British Columbia | ✅ Yes |
| Manitoba | ✅ Yes |
| New Brunswick | ✅ Yes |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | ✅ Yes |
| Nova Scotia | ✅ Yes |
| Ontario | ✅ Yes |
| Prince Edward Island | ✅ Yes |
| Quebec | ❌ No* |
| Saskatchewan | ✅ Yes |
| Territories (NWT, Nunavut, Yukon) | ✅ Yes |
*Note: Quebec has its own regulatory body and certification process for dental assistants.
🧭 How to Get Your NDAEB Certificate
Here's how to become certified:
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
You must be:
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A graduate of a CDAC-accredited Level II dental assisting program, or
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Have your education assessed for equivalency if trained outside Canada or in non-accredited programs
2. Register for the Written Exam
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Visit https://ndaeb.ca
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Submit an application form and payment
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Exams are held four times a year in various locations across Canada
3. Pass the Written Exam
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The exam covers infection control, chairside assisting, dental materials, radiography, anatomy, and ethics
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It is 4 hours long with 200 multiple-choice questions
4. (If Required) Complete the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE)
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This applies to candidates who did not graduate from a CDAC-accredited program with Level II training
📄 Why It Matters for Relief Buddy Applicants
If you’re applying for dental assistant shifts through Relief Buddy, especially in Ontario, Alberta, or BC, having the NDAEB certificate is often required to be matched with the highest number of opportunities.
✔️ It demonstrates your qualifications
✔️ It helps us place you faster with reputable clinics
✔️ It’s often required for insurance and patient safety compliance
🧩 Still Have Questions?
Check the official NDAEB website for up-to-date exam dates, fees, and study resources.
This FAQ is accurate as of June 2025 - visit https://ndaeb.ca to ensure you get the latest information.
