Career guide · Training, diplomas and professional orders
Becoming a denturist in Quebec: DEC, Order and practice
A denturist designs, makes and adjusts removable dentures. Here are the training, the licence and the ways to practise, alone or within a dental clinic.
Which training leads to denturology?
The DEC in denturology techniques (code 110.B0), a three-year program offered in Quebec at Cégep Édouard-Montpetit in Longueuil. It combines science, lab techniques and clinical practice. The Quebec government reports a placement rate of about 91% for this program.
What are the prerequisites for the denturology DEC?
A high school diploma with the science prerequisites (according to the CEGEP’s requirements), and often an interview or a dexterity test. Places are limited. Dental technicians or assistants with lab experience have an appreciated profile.
What exactly does a denturist do?
They examine the mouth, take impressions, design, make, fit, adjust and repair complete and partial removable dentures, including implant dentures in collaboration with a dentist. They do not place implants and do not treat natural teeth.
How do you obtain the licence to practise?
By registering with the Ordre des denturologistes du Québec after the DEC, with proof of French proficiency and compliance with the Order’s requirements (liability insurance, continuing education). The Order publishes the procedure and fees on its website.
What are the job prospects?
« Good » outlook for 2025-2029 according to the Quebec government, with about 1,000 denturists in the province and an aging population sustaining demand. Income depends on the practice model: independent office, collaboration in a dental clinic or salaried position.
Do you have to open your own office?
No: more and more denturists practise within a dental clinic, where dentists refer denture patients directly and implantology is available on site. That is the model offered at Go Dentiste, with no premises or front desk costs.
Is denturology compatible with family life?
Yes: hours are generally regular, without night emergencies, and practising in a clinic lets you choose your days of presence. Lab work can be organized flexibly. Clinics open 7 days offer weekend slots appreciated by working patients.
Which continuing education is required?
The Ordre des denturologistes du Québec imposes a mandatory continuing education regulation with a number of hours per reference period; recognized activities include conferences, courses and online training. Tracking is done with the Order.
Can a denturist trained outside Quebec practise here?
After recognition of their training by the Order (file review, exams or upgrading if needed) and proof of French proficiency. Graduates from other provinces benefit from labour mobility agreements, subject to the language requirement.
How do you get started after the DEC?
Gain a few years of experience in an office or clinic, develop implant dentures, then choose between independence, collaboration or partnership. The Go Dentiste clinics in Valleyfield, Vaudreuil-Dorion and Saint-Zotique are looking for denturists.
Go further
- Denturists at Go Dentiste
- Denturist income
- Dental career guide: the 1,000 questions
- All positions at Go Dentiste
Sources and references
Content prepared by the Go Dentiste team (Dr Dominic Morel-Maynard, general dentist and owner). Last updated: September 25, 2026. General information for guidance only: only an in-clinic exam can establish a diagnosis and a treatment plan suited to your situation.