Career guide · Application and interview
References, checks and licences: what the clinic verifies
A good clinic verifies, and that is reassuring: it protects patients and the team. Here is what is verified, how to prepare your documents and where the legal limits are.
What does a clinic verify for a hygienist or a dentist?
Registration in good standing with the OHDQ or ODQ (searchable online), no practice limitations, liability insurance for dentists, up-to-date continuing education and references. It is a due-diligence obligation of the clinic; have your member number handy.
And for an assistant or a receptionist?
The DEP or training taken (radiography, CPR), references from previous employers, sometimes a criminal background check (with your consent, if the position justifies it), and French proficiency. Without a diploma, experience and references carry more weight.
How many references should you provide?
Two or three: a former employer or direct supervisor, a work colleague, and for beginners, a teacher or placement supervisor. Warn your references before giving them and choose people who will speak concretely about your work.
Can the clinic call my current employer?
Not without your agreement: ask that they be contacted only after the offer, or not at all if you have not announced your departure. A serious clinic respects this request; it is the norm in the field.
Is vaccination verified?
Often, for hepatitis B (immunity) and sometimes other vaccines recommended in care settings; it is generally not a legal hiring condition, but a prevention practice. A clinic that organizes vaccination at hiring makes it easy for you.
Is CPR required at hiring?
Often for clinical staff, or within the first months, with a session organized by the clinic. If your card is current, include it in your file; it is a small plus that shows your seriousness.
What is it not allowed to ask?
Under the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms: your age, marital status, pregnancy plans, religion, ethnic origin, orientation, health status (except genuine job requirements) or criminal record unrelated to the job. A question of this kind at an interview is a warning sign.
How do you prepare your application file?
A digital file with resume, certificates (diploma, licence, radiography, CPR), proof of registration with the order, reference letters and your references’ contact details. Sent all at once, it speeds up hiring and makes a good impression.
What if a check reveals a problem?
Anticipate: if you had a registration gap, a disciplinary record or a training gap, explain it yourself, briefly, with what you have done since. Transparency is almost always better received than a late discovery.
How do checks work at Go Dentiste?
Simply: Maryse Milton, director of clinical operations, verifies the licence or diploma, contacts your references with your agreement and confirms the required training before you start. The process takes a few days. See open positions.
Go further
- Resume for a dental clinic
- Radiation protection, infections and vaccination
- Dental career guide: the 1,000 questions
- All positions at Go Dentiste
Sources and references
- Ordre des hygiénistes dentaires du Québec
- Ordre des dentistes du Québec
- CNESST — Labour standards, pay equity, health and safety
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.