The CDSA requests that all Professional Corporation documents are to be scanned and emailed, along with any supporting documents to ProfessionalCorporations@cdsab.ca
Note that the CDSA will only be able to accept them if the scanned images are clear. Documents will be reviewed as received and the Professional Corporations team will reach out for clarification as needed.
The CDSA is charged with the responsibility of administering dental professional corporations in Alberta.
Section 104-115 of the Health Professions Act (HPA) makes it clear that only a licensed member, a registered practitioner, or a professional corporation may engage in the practice of dentistry. All of the provisions of the Act, the Regulations, and the Bylaws that are applicable to an individual registered member apply with equal force and with all necessary modifications to a professional corporation. The Act does not permit there to be different rules depending on whether or not a dentist practices individually or as a professional corporation.
When do I need to incorporate?
Any registered dentist in Alberta can become incorporated. You should seek the advice of your legal counsel and/or accountant on when it would be in your best interests to incorporate.
What is required to incorporate a dental professional corporation in Alberta?
Download the Professional Corporations Information package.
How do I obtain Articles to send in to the CDSA?
From your legal counsel and/or accountant.
Why is the CDSA involved in the process of dental professional corporations?
The CDSA is charged with the responsibility of administering dental professional corporations in Alberta.
By virtue of the HPA the provincial government has delegated the responsibility of regulating the dental profession to the CDSA In order to carry out the responsibility of self-regulation, the CDSA is charged with protecting the public interest, responding to public complaint, and carrying out investigations and following through with discipline proceedings where those actions are deemed to be necessary. Section 104-115 of the HPA makes it clear that only a licensed member, a registered practitioner, or a professional corporation may engage in the practice of dentistry. All of the provisions of the Act, the Regulations, and the Bylaws that are applicable to an individual registered member apply with equal force and with all necessary modifications to a professional corporation. The Act does not permit there to be different rules depending on whether or not a dentist practices individually or as a professional corporation.
What are the fees for incorporation?
Incorporation: $400
Continuance: $400
Amendments, Amalgamation, Revival: $300
Annual Permit: $100
These fees are over and above the fees from your legal counsel and/or accountant for the incorporation process. A receipt and permit will then be issued. Copies of all correspondence are filed in this office. Each professional corporation is unique, and the advice of your legal counsel should be sought.
What is the approximate time it will take to become professionally incorporated with the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta?
Professional Corporation incorporation times can vary. Processing time with the CDSA is approximately 4 business days. Processing time on the end of the lawyer/tax accountant will need to be taking into consideration as well. It is suggested to allow approximately 6 weeks from start to finish for processing. Please note that certain times of year, volume will need to be taken into consideration.
Can I become professionally incorporated before I am registered in Alberta?
No. Professional incorporation documents cannot be processed until an applicant is a registered member of the CDSA.
Can articles be emailed?
Yes, the signed articles of Incorporation, Amendment, Amalgamation, Revival or Continuance can be emailed to ProfessionalCorporations@cdsab.ca .
Can my legal counsel sign on behalf of the incorporating dentist(s)?
No, articles must be signed by the incorporating dentist(s).
Can Articles be back-dated to a specific date?
No, articles can only be signed on the date they are approved or the date the permit is created.
Can my spouse or family members be part owners in my professional corporation?
Yes, the Proclamation of Bill 53 now allows Alberta dentists who use a professional corporation to benefit from the new legislation which removes the restrictions on share ownership and allows family members to own non-voting shares.
When I update my membership contact information, will my professional corporation contact information be updated at the same time?
No, the professional corporation database is separate from the membership database; as many dentists have their professional corporation annual invoice and Statement of Particulars (Form B) sent to their lawyers or accountants to complete and forward on to the CDSA on their behalf.
You must advise the CDSA of all professional corporation changes.
Can I sell my practice to a non-dental corporation?
The sale of a dental practice to a non-dentist such as a corporation is contrary to the Health Professions Act.