About RCDC
Since its inception, RCDC has administered a high-calibre examination that has been a requirement to gain Fellowship within the College and permitted qualified dental specialists to use the designation of FRCDC or MRCDC.
The College has grown significantly since the 1960s, and now has over 2,500 Fellows and Members worldwide in nine nationally recognized dental specialties and Dental Sciences. This puts the College in a very unique position within Canada and abroad, as it is able to provide programs and events for its members that are multispecialty in nature.
Current requirements to obtain the FRCDC designation can be found on the Requirements for Fellowship page.
Starting in 2024, RCDC is in charge of the administration of the National Dental Specialty Examination (NDSE). This examination is a requirement for provincial licensure within Canada. One of the requirements for the College to administer this assessment is a clear division between the Fellowship program and the NDSE.
Constitutional Objectives
As outlined in its Constitution, The Royal College of Dentists of Canada’s primary objectives are:
- To promote high standards of specialization in the dental profession.
- To set up qualifications for and provide for the recognition and designation of properly trained dental specialists.
- To encourage the establishment of training programs in the dental specialties in Canadian schools; and
- To provide for the recognition and designation of dentists who possess special qualifications in areas not recognized as specialties.
Vision
To be the global leader of excellence in dental specialties.
Mission
Advance excellence in dental specialties by upholding high standards, assessing competencies, fostering Fellowship, and collaborating with partners to strengthen a trusted professional community.
Values
- Excellence
- Leadership
- Respect
- Trust
- Collaboration
- Innovation
- Stewardship
History
At the turn of the 20th century, dental specialization was virtually nonexistent in Canada, with only a few specialists across the provinces and no regulations governing specialization. As the number of dental specialists grew, Alberta became the first province to regulate specialists, requiring proof of special skills. Ontario followed in 1944, and by 1945, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) established a Committee on Specialists and Specialization (the Committee) to define and regulate dental specialties.
In 1960, the Committee’s report revealed discrepancies in provincial regulations, highlighting the need for uniform standards. This led to the creation of a national body, which resulted in The Act of Incorporation of The Royal College of Dentists of Canada (RCDC) on March 18,1965. This gave RCDC the authority to examine dental specialists nationwide. Over the years, RCDC has adapted to organizational challenges but remained focused on its mission. The 2026-2030 Strategic Plan emphasizes on strengthening the assessments, expanding the Fellowship experience, and advancing international leadership to guide the College’s future.
Historical Milestones for The Royal College of Dentists of Canada:
