Dentist Salary Report: British Columbia
Percentile Wage Estimates for Dentists
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Dentist Salary Report: British Columbia
Percentile Wage Estimates for Dentists
Texas - Salary Report January 2025
Florida - Salary Report January 2025
Dentists Salary in British Columbia
British Columbia (B.C.) continues to stand out as one of Canada’s most appealing provinces for dental professionals. With a high standard of living, strong demand for dental services, and a diverse and growing population, dentists practicing in B.C. enjoy a blend of professional excellence and lifestyle quality that is hard to match. Whether you’re an associate dentist or a general practitioner, British Columbia offers competitive salaries, expansive career growth opportunities, and an unmatched work-life balance.
From metropolitan centers like Vancouver and Victoria to the expanding suburban and rural communities across the province, B.C. remains a top destination for dental professionals seeking both financial reward and meaningful patient relationships.
General Dentist Salary in British Columbia
General dentists in British Columbia are among the top earners in the Canadian dental industry. The average annual salary for a general dentist in B.C. is approximately $323,000, making it one of the top three provinces in Canada for dental compensation. This breaks down to a monthly salary of $26,917 and an hourly wage of about $155.
These figures underscore the critical role general dentists play in the healthcare system, particularly in areas such as:
- ●Preventive dental care
- ●Restorative procedures like crowns and bridges
- ●Cosmetic enhancements such as veneers and whitening
- ●Oral health education and long-term care planning
With an aging population and an influx of newcomers to the province, the demand for general dental services continues to rise. B.C.’s general dentists often work in well-equipped practices that embrace modern technology, enabling efficient, patient-centered care. In cities like Vancouver, Surrey, Kelowna, and Burnaby, general dentists can expect even higher earning potential due to increased patient demand and premium service offerings.
General Dentist Salary in Other Canadian Provinces
| Province | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $31,667 | $380,000 | $183/hour |
| Ontario | $26,333 | $316,000 | $152/hour |
Although Alberta remains at the top in terms of annual salary, B.C. offers a compelling balance between high earnings and a superior quality of life. Ontario also presents competitive salaries, but B.C.’s mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty draws many professionals seeking a more holistic career and lifestyle package.
Associate Dentist Salary in British Columbia
Associate dentists in British Columbia are well-compensated, reflecting the province’s steady demand for oral healthcare and the high value placed on preventive and restorative dental services. As of early 2025, the average annual salary for associate dentists in B.C. is approximately $289,000, which equates to a monthly income of $24,083 and an hourly wage of around $139.
Several factors contribute to this strong earning potential:
- ●High patient volume in urban and suburban areas
- ●Growth of multi-specialty dental practices and group clinics
- ●Increasing awareness of oral health and cosmetic dental solutions
- ●Expanding provincial healthcare investment in oral health infrastructure
In British Columbia, associate dentists frequently work in diverse settings, ranging from corporate dental service organizations (DSOs) to privately owned boutique practices. The province also encourages collaboration through continuing education programs and study clubs, helping dentists sharpen their skills while delivering high-quality care.
Associate Dentist Salary in Other Canadian Provinces
| Province | Average Monthly Salary | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $26,333 | $316,000 | $152/hour |
| Ontario | $24,083 | $289,000 | $139/hour |
While Alberta leads with slightly higher average salaries, British Columbia remains a close second. The province’s balanced cost of living, excellent public services, and scenic living environments more than make up for any modest salary differences. Additionally, associate dentists in B.C. benefit from consistent job availability, with approximately 75 open associate dentist roles in the province and 376 positions nationwide.
High-Earning Cities and Regions for Dentists in British Columbia
Several cities in British Columbia offer particularly strong earning potential for both associate and general dentists. These include:
- ●Vancouver
- High patient density, multicultural demographics, and premium-priced services.
- ●Victoria
- Growing healthcare infrastructure and strong community demand.
- ●Surrey
- Rapidly expanding population and diverse patient needs.
- ●Kelowna and Kamloops
- Emerging regional centers with increasing demand for dental professionals.
These cities are distinguished by a high concentration of private dental clinics and group practices, creating a vibrant and competitive professional landscape. There is a growing demand for specialized services such as dental implants, Invisalign, and cosmetic dentistry, reflecting the evolving preferences of a health-conscious population.
Additionally, these urban centers place a strong emphasis on the use of advanced digital tools and diagnostic imaging, allowing dentists to enhance precision and efficiency in patient care. Dentists practicing in these regions not only benefit from higher earning potential but also gain access to state-of-the-art technologies and collaborative professional environments that foster continuous learning and clinical excellence.
Why British Columbia Is a Prime Destination for Dental Professionals
British Columbia offers dental specialists far more than competitive compensation—it provides a holistic career and lifestyle experience that blends professional fulfillment with exceptional quality of life. Whether newly graduated or well-established, many specialists choose to make B.C. their long-term home. Key reasons include:
- ●Outstanding quality of life
- From coastal cities to mountain towns, B.C. is renowned for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, high-ranking schools, and safe, family-friendly communities. Specialists can enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban amenities and nature.
- ●Favorable patient demographics
- With a growing focus on preventive, aesthetic, and elective dental care, the province attracts patients who are engaged in long-term oral health, providing specialists with consistent demand for advanced services.
- ●Supportive professional environment
- British Columbia is home to strong provincial dental associations, such as the British Columbia Dental Association (BCDA), which offer advocacy, legal support, and continuing education (CE) opportunities. The presence of dental study clubs and mentorship programs fosters peer learning and professional growth.
- ●Investment in healthcare infrastructure
- The province continues to invest in modern dental facilities, digital health tools, and community-based care models, creating new opportunities for specialists in both public and private sectors.
- ●Diverse and multicultural population
- Practicing in British Columbia means serving a culturally rich patient base, enhancing both the clinical experience and the human connection at the core of patient care. Many specialists also speak multiple languages or adapt services to meet community needs.
For dental specialists seeking clinical autonomy, career advancement, and a meaningful place to live and practice, British Columbia stands out as a top-tier destination.
Let Hire Smiles Help You Find the Right Dental Role in British Columbia
Looking to advance your dental career in one of Canada’s most desirable provinces? Hire Smiles is your trusted recruitment partner, committed to connecting talented dental professionals with top dental practices across British Columbia.
Whether you are a general dentist, associate dentist, or a specialist, we have the network and expertise to help you find the perfect match. From Vancouver to Victoria and everywhere in between, we understand the nuances of the B.C. dental job market and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Hire Smiles Today:
📞 Phone: +1 (888) 533-4989
📧 Email: info@hiresmiles.com
Let Hire Smiles help you unlock new opportunities in British Columbia’s thriving dental sector. The next chapter in your dental career begins here—with competitive salaries, professional growth, and a team that puts your goals first.