Your complete guide to dental care in Singapore. Learn about public vs private dental services, costs, insurance coverage, and how to find the right dentist for your needs.
Singapore offers high-quality dental care through both public and private sectors. While English is widely spoken, understanding the dental care system, costs, and finding the right dentist for your specific needs requires some navigation.
Dental care in Singapore is generally not covered by basic medical insurance and can be expensive, especially in private practices. However, the quality of care is excellent, with many dentists trained internationally and using the latest technology.
The choice between public and private dental care in Singapore often comes down to cost, convenience, and complexity of treatment.
| Treatment | Public (Non-subsidized) | Private Range |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | S$25-40 | S$50-150 |
| Cleaning/Scaling | S$50-90 | S$80-200 |
| Filling (per tooth) | S$30-90 | S$80-250 |
| Root Canal (molar) | S$300-600 | S$800-1,500 |
| Crown | S$400-800 | S$800-2,000 |
| Extraction (simple) | S$35-80 | S$80-250 |
| Wisdom Tooth Surgery | S$200-600 | S$500-2,000 |
Singapore has numerous dental chains and independent practices offering various specializations and price points.
Several strategies can help you find a suitable dentist in Singapore.
Understanding dental specialties helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Understanding payment options and insurance coverage for dental care in Singapore.
Understanding common procedures and what to expect in Singapore.
Knowing where to go for dental emergencies in Singapore.
Practical advice for maintaining dental health and managing costs.
Yes, dental clinics in Singapore use modern digital X-ray systems with minimal radiation exposure. Lead aprons are provided, and clinics follow strict safety protocols set by the National Environment Agency.
Medisave can only be used for certain surgical procedures like wisdom tooth surgery and dental implants, performed by approved providers. Regular dental care, fillings, and cleaning cannot be paid with Medisave.
Some dental chains like Q&M and Unity have weekend hours. NTUC Health Denticare at Yishun operates 24/7. For severe pain, hospital A&E can provide temporary relief. Many hotels can arrange emergency dental appointments.
Dental tourism to Malaysia (especially Johor Bahru) and Thailand can be 40-60% cheaper. However, factor in travel costs, time, and potential follow-up visits. Complex procedures are best done locally for continuity of care.
First, discuss concerns with your dentist - most will offer corrections. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Singapore Dental Council or Singapore Dental Association. Keep all records and receipts for disputes.
Many private clinics offer interest-free installment plans for treatments over S$1,000. Some accept credit card installment plans. Discuss payment options during consultation before committing to treatment.
Singapore offers high-quality dental care through both public and private sectors. While English is widely spoken, understanding the dental care system, costs, and finding the right dentist for your specific needs requires some navigation.
Dental care in Singapore is generally not covered by basic medical insurance and can be expensive, especially in private practices. However, the quality of care is excellent, with many dentists trained internationally and using the latest technology.
The choice between public and private dental care in Singapore often comes down to cost, convenience, and complexity of treatment.
| Treatment | Public (Non-subsidized) | Private Range |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | S$25-40 | S$50-150 |
| Cleaning/Scaling | S$50-90 | S$80-200 |
| Filling (per tooth) | S$30-90 | S$80-250 |
| Root Canal (molar) | S$300-600 | S$800-1,500 |
| Crown | S$400-800 | S$800-2,000 |
| Extraction (simple) | S$35-80 | S$80-250 |
| Wisdom Tooth Surgery | S$200-600 | S$500-2,000 |
Singapore has numerous dental chains and independent practices offering various specializations and price points.
Several strategies can help you find a suitable dentist in Singapore.
Understanding dental specialties helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Understanding payment options and insurance coverage for dental care in Singapore.
Understanding common procedures and what to expect in Singapore.
Knowing where to go for dental emergencies in Singapore.
Practical advice for maintaining dental health and managing costs.
Yes, dental clinics in Singapore use modern digital X-ray systems with minimal radiation exposure. Lead aprons are provided, and clinics follow strict safety protocols set by the National Environment Agency.
Medisave can only be used for certain surgical procedures like wisdom tooth surgery and dental implants, performed by approved providers. Regular dental care, fillings, and cleaning cannot be paid with Medisave.
Some dental chains like Q&M and Unity have weekend hours. NTUC Health Denticare at Yishun operates 24/7. For severe pain, hospital A&E can provide temporary relief. Many hotels can arrange emergency dental appointments.
Dental tourism to Malaysia (especially Johor Bahru) and Thailand can be 40-60% cheaper. However, factor in travel costs, time, and potential follow-up visits. Complex procedures are best done locally for continuity of care.
First, discuss concerns with your dentist - most will offer corrections. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Singapore Dental Council or Singapore Dental Association. Keep all records and receipts for disputes.
Many private clinics offer interest-free installment plans for treatments over S$1,000. Some accept credit card installment plans. Discuss payment options during consultation before committing to treatment.