How to Choose the Best Dentist (2026)

Perhaps you have just moved to Singapore, or it has been a few years since your last check-up. Either way, you are about to trust someone new with your teeth, and a clinic profile only tells you so much. It lists a degree and a few interests, but it cannot tell you whether this dentist will explain things in a way you follow, or slow down when you are nervous. Without that, choosing can feel like a guess.

Choosing the best dentist in Singapore for you is easier than it looks, because some of the answers are already public. Singapore's dental register is public and takes a few minutes to search, specialist status is regulated and recorded on a separate specialist register, and a first consultation lets you judge the rest in person.

Locate Us

What Makes a Good Dentist?

A good dentist for you is someone who is properly registered, keeps their training current and talks you through your options before anything starts. The right fit also depends on what you need, whether that is a routine check-up, a complex procedure or a gentle approach for a nervous patient.

Registered with the dental council: They are on the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) register and hold a valid practising certificate, which they need to practise legally in Singapore.
Ongoing education: They keep up the continuing education needed to renew that certificate.
Clear communication: They answer your questions plainly and never rush you into a decision.
The right scope: They are a general dentist or a registered specialist, depending on the care you need.

How to Check a Dentist Is Registered

SDC is constituted under the Dental Registration Act 1999. It approves registration, issues practising certificates and sets the standards of conduct and ethics for dentists in Singapore. Its register is public, so you can check a dentist yourself before your first appointment.

How to Search the SDC Register

The search runs on the Ministry of Health's Professional Registration System. It takes a few steps:

Open the Professional Registration System and choose the Singapore Dental Council search.
Type the dentist's name under "Search by Name". You can also enter the name of the clinic under "Name of Place of Practice".
Select "Dentist" as the professional type, since the same register also lists dental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists.
Accept the Terms of Use, click Search, then open "View more details" on the right result.

A registered name can differ from the name a dentist uses day to day. If nothing comes back, try the full name in a different order, or tick "Names starting with..." and enter the first part only.

A "Search by Region" tab is also there if you want to see who practises near you. If a friend, a colleague or your previous dentist has recommended someone, you can run the same search to confirm that dentist is registered before you book.

What the SDC Register Shows

Each search result gives the dentist's registered name and registration number, with a link to a fuller record. The register also governs what a dentist can put after their name. Under Section 31 of the Dental Registration Act, a dentist may only use qualifications that are entered in the register or approved by the Council.

SDC also keeps a list of additional qualifications it recognises for display, and expects any title a dentist shows to reflect a real step up in knowledge and skill.

How to Check a Dentist Is Registered

Most people start with a general dentist, who looks after check-ups, cleaning, fillings, extractions, crowns and much of your day-to-day care. Many general dentists also take further training in areas such as implants, orthodontics or children's dentistry. When your case needs a specialist, your dentist can refer you to one.

If you have a medical condition or disability that affects your dental care, mention it when you book. Special care dentistry is one of Singapore's recognised dental specialties, so your dentist can refer you if your needs call for it.

A specialist is a dentist who has been accredited by the Dental Specialists Accreditation Board and then registered on SDC's Register of Dental Specialists. The law has required this registration for anyone practising as a dental specialist since 1 January 2008. Singapore currently recognises eight specialties:

Endodontics (root canal treatment and the inside of the tooth)
Oral and maxillofacial surgery
Orthodontics (teeth and jaw alignment)
Paediatric dentistry
Periodontics (gums and supporting bone)
Prosthodontics (replacing and restoring teeth)
Dental public health
Special care dentistry

Titles tell you which register a dentist is on. A general dentist may be called a "Dental Surgeon", "Dentist" or "General Dental Practitioner". Only a registered specialist may use "Dental Specialist in" followed by the specialty, or a title such as "Orthodontist" or "Periodontist". A special interest in implants or braces does not on its own make a general dentist a specialist.

	General dentist	Dental specialist
What they do	Check-ups, cleaning, fillings, extractions, crowns and much of your day-to-day care	Care within one of eight recognised specialties, such as orthodontics, periodontics or endodontics
Training and registration	A basic dental degree and registration with SDC	Accredited by the Dental Specialists Accreditation Board, then registered on SDC's Register of Dental Specialists
Titles they may use	"Dental Surgeon", "Dentist" or "General Dental Practitioner"	"Dental Specialist in" followed by the specialty, or a title such as "Orthodontist" or "Periodontist"
When you see one	Routine care and most everyday treatment	When your case needs care within a specialty
How to see one	Book an appointment directly	Your general dentist can refer you

Dentist Qualifications and Experience

Every dentist in Singapore holds a basic dental degree, often shown as BDS or BDSc with the country or university in brackets. Some go on to earn a master's degree, a graduate diploma or a fellowship. The degree tells you where someone trained, and the additional qualifications show where they chose to build further skill.

Dentists also keep training after they qualify. Since October 2007, every dentist has had to complete a set number of continuing education hours over each two-year period to renew their practising certificate. SDC also requires basic cardiac life support training and an ethics self-assessment.

Experience is harder to read from a profile, so ask about it directly. How long a dentist has practised matters less than how often they carry out the treatment you need.

Communication and Informed Consent

SDC's Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines set out what you can expect when a treatment is proposed. Your dentist should explain your condition and your options, including the benefits, risks, possible complications and any alternatives. For a child, this is explained to a parent or guardian, and the consent should be recorded.

In practice, this means you should leave the chair knowing what is wrong, what the choices are and what happens if you wait. A dentist who shows you your X-rays, draws a quick diagram or writes down the options makes that easier. You should also feel able to say no, or ask for time to decide.

The same code asks dentists to communicate in a language you understand and to respect your decision once you have the facts.

Choosing a Dentist When You Feel Anxious

Dental anxiety is common, and a good dentist plans treatment around it. When you call to book, say that you are nervous. Some dentists mention anxious patients in their profiles as a clinical interest, which is a useful place to start.

At the first visit, notice whether the dentist explains each step before doing it and checks in with you as they go. You can also ask what options they offer for nervous patients, from simple comfort measures to sedation.

Relaxation Techniques

Many nervous patients manage well with a few simple relaxation techniques. Before an injection, a numbing gel on the gum takes the edge off the needle. Headphones with music or a podcast can keep your mind elsewhere, and some people like to hold a stress ball.

Agree a stop signal with your dentist before treatment starts, such as raising a hand, so you know you can pause whenever you need to. Bringing a calm friend or family member along can help too, as long as they are not nervous themselves.

Sedation Dentistry

If relaxation techniques are not enough, your dentist may talk to you about sedation. It places you in a relaxed, drowsy state while you stay conscious and able to respond to the dental team, which is different from a general anaesthetic. It can be given as a tablet taken before treatment or through a drip in the arm.

Sedation needs some planning, including a health check beforehand and someone to take you home afterwards.

How to Evaluate Dentist Reviews and Recommendations

Online reviews are most useful when you read them for detail. A review saying the dentist explained the X-rays before starting, or that appointments ran on time, tells you more than a star rating. Start with recent reviews, since they describe the team you are likely to see now.

Look for the same point coming up across many reviews. One very happy or very angry review says little on its own, but several people mentioning rushed appointments or clear explanations is worth noting. MOH's advertising rules do not allow clinics to pay or reward patients for reviews, so be cautious of any review that mentions a gift or discount for posting it.

If a friend or colleague recommends a dentist, ask what made the difference for them, such as how pain was managed or how costs were explained, and whether their treatment was similar to what you need. You can then look the dentist up on the SDC register before you book.

Questions to Ask a Dentist at Your First Consultation

A first appointment is a chance to see whether you are comfortable with a dentist. Bring any recent X-rays or treatment notes from your previous dentist and a list of the medicines you take, so the dentist has your history from the start. These questions help:

Are you a general dentist or a registered specialist?
How often do you carry out this treatment? For an implant or a surgical extraction, a rough number per month is fine.
What are my options, including waiting? You should hear more than one route where more than one exists.
What could go wrong, and how would it be handled? A calm, specific answer is a good sign.
What can I do at home to avoid more treatment later? A dentist who talks about brushing, cleaning between your teeth and diet is thinking beyond the next appointment.
Can I have a written estimate before we start? Knowing the cost in advance lets you plan.
Which languages do you consult in? This matters if English is not your first language, or if a family member will join you.

The clinic around the dentist matters too, from its licensing to how it handles sterilisation. We cover those checks in our guide to the best dental clinic in Singapore.

Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Profiles you can check: Each profile on our dentists page lists the dentist's primary degree, so you can look them up on the SDC register before you book.
A range of training backgrounds: Our team includes dentists who trained at the National University of Singapore, King's College London, the University of Melbourne, the University of Otago, Cardiff and Glasgow, among others.
Dentists with an interest in nervous patients: Dr Peter Loughran, Dr Annaajihah, Dr Saqib Safdar and Dr Hanna Aslam each list helping anxious patients as part of their clinical focus, and we offer relaxation options, oral sedation and IV sedation for patients who need them.
Ongoing training: Our dental nurses train at our in-house training centre, led by senior nurses assigned to the role.
A chance to talk first: You can book a 15-minute dental virtual consultation over video to discuss your concerns with one of our dentists before you visit.
Specialist care: Our team includes dentists registered with SDC as dental specialists, such as Dr Hui Chee Wah in periodontics and Dr Lim Janee in orthodontics.

Cost Of Root Canal Treatment In Singapore

Root Canal Treatment Cost

The price varies according to the unique treatment prescribed to each individual patient. For example, if a root canal treatment is require for more than one root, the cost would go up as well. However, saving the tooth with a Root Canal treatment is relatively cost-efficient in the long run.

A Root Canal Treatment procedure in Singapore's price ranges from S$500 - S$1700. However, the price may or may not include the crowning of the tooth and consultation charges. Average consultation prices of dental services in Singapore ranges from S$75- S$200.

Root Canal Treatment FAQs

Is a Root Canal Treatment procedure painful?

The entire procedure will be done under local anaesthesia, so it will not be painful than getting your tooth filled or a wisdom tooth surgery. However, the affected area may cause discomfort and be slightly sore post-surgery but it goes away after a few days.
If the pain persists, please consult our doctor immediately. You can reach us at +65 9839 7363.

Can I go about my day to day activities after a Root Canal Treatment?
Most patients are able to return to school or work the next day following a Root Canal Treatment. However, it is advised against eating immediately post-surgery as there may be numbness in the affected area.

What are the side effects of a Root Canal Treatment?

The side effects of a Root Canal Treatment differs with each individual. Some people may experience pain or a slight soreness post-surgery, and some people may experience little to no pain at all. This also applies to certain patients experiencing a measured amount of sensitivity associated to cold or heat when consuming food or beverages.

What is the aftercare for a Root Canal Treatment?

As a Root Canal Treatment is considered a restorative procedure, the after-care is deemed crucial to experience lasting effects. After your procedure, your dentist will send you home with pain-killers to counter the soreness you may feel when the anaesthesia wears off. It is also strongly advised against the consumption of food until the numbness wears off. Brushing and flossing daily is encouraged to keep the area clean and this in turn would prevent infection. Upon completing any follow-up appointments for the Root Canal Treatment, you may be required to return to the dentist for a final crown to fully restore the tooth. A properly treated and restored tooth can last as long as your natural teeth.

Can a Root Canal Treatment be unsuccessful?

A Root Canal Treatment has a 90% success rate of fully restoring your tooth. However. failure to fully restore your tooth can occur if there is a loose crown, tooth fracture or decay. Undetected canal branches or an obstruction that causes the cleaning difficulties may also cause a Root Canal Procedure to fail. Should your Root Canal Treatment be unsuccessful, explore options with Nuffield's Endodontist for possible solutions.

Orchard Dental

Nuffield Dental Jewel
Wheelock Place501 Orchard Road #05-01 Singapore 238880

+65 6950 2866

+65 9657 4331

jewel@nuffielddental.com.sg

Closed on Public Holidays

Find us on Google Maps

Find us on Google Maps

Read our Google Reviews

FAQs

How Do I Find a Dentist Who Speaks My Language?

Ask the clinic when you book, since many dentist profiles do not list languages. At Nuffield Dental, Dr Serene Wu speaks English and Mandarin, and our coordinators for international patients can arrange interpretation assistance.

How Do I Choose the Best Dentist for My Child?

Look for a dentist who enjoys working with children and explains things at their level. Paediatric dentistry is a recognised specialty, and many general dentists also see children regularly. Several of our dentists list paediatric dentistry as a clinical interest, and you can read more on our kids dentist page.

Can I Meet a Dentist Before Committing to Treatment?

Yes. A consultation lets you meet the dentist, hear their view and ask questions before you agree to anything. At Nuffield Dental, you can also start with a short video call with a dentist. A video call is not a diagnosis, so an examination at the clinic still comes before any treatment plan.

Can I Get a Second Opinion From Another Dentist?

SDC's ethical guidelines ask dentists to help a patient obtain a second opinion if they want one. You can ask your current dentist whether your X-rays and treatment plan can be shared with the second dentist, which may save you repeating them.

What Does Dental Surgeon Mean After a Dentist's Name?

"Dental Surgeon" is a title a general dentist registered in Division I of the register may use, so it does not mean the dentist is a surgical specialist. The specialist title for surgery of the mouth and jaws is "Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon".

What Can I Do If I Have Concerns About a Dentist's Conduct?

Start by raising the concern with the clinic, since many issues can be settled directly. SDC handles complaints about serious professional misconduct, performance affected by ill health, and convictions. A formal complaint must be made in writing and supported by a statutory declaration, sent to SDC at 81 Kim Keat Road, #09-00 NKF Centre, Singapore 328836. You can also seek help from the Singapore Dental Association.

How Much Does Visiting a Dentist Cost in Singapore?

Fees vary between clinics and with your case. As a reference point, MOH publishes fee benchmarks for routine cases at private clinics, last updated in October 2026. These put a consultation at $21 to $31, a simple filling at $65 to $160 and removing a back tooth at $93 to $164. Scaling is $35 to $60, and polishing is $26 to $38.

The benchmarks exclude GST, so fees are subject to prevailing GST. Ask the clinic for a written estimate and compare it with the MOH fee benchmarks before treatment starts.

Can You Use CHAS, MediSave or Dental Insurance at Your Dentist?

If you hold a CHAS Blue, CHAS Orange, Pioneer Generation or Merdeka Generation card, you can get subsidies for selected dental services at participating clinics, including Nuffield Dental. Bring your NRIC and card to each visit, and see our CHAS dental subsidy page for the services covered.

You can use MediSave for dental surgery needed for medical reasons, such as removing an impacted wisdom tooth, while fillings, scaling and polishing, and extractions without surgery are generally not claimable. If you have dental insurance, you pay after treatment and claim from your insurer with an itemised invoice, as Nuffield Dental does not bill insurers directly.

Medical References

Dental Registration Act 1999. (1999). Singapore Statutes Online. https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/DRA1999

Dental Specialists Accreditation Board. (2025). List of recognised specialties. https://dsab.healthprofessionals.gov.sg/specialist-training/list-of-recognised-specialties/

Ministry of Health. (n.d.). Professional Registration System: Singapore Dental Council. https://prs.moh.gov.sg/prs/internet/profSearch/main.action?hpe=SDC

Ministry of Health. (2024). Healthcare Services (Advertisement) Regulations 2021 FAQs. https://isomer-user-content.by.gov.sg/7/1d84b66a-5625-49a2-8c0e-e06eea4ed9fd/FAQs%20on%20HCS%20(Advertisement)%20Regulations_1.1.pdf

Ministry of Health. (2026). Guide to dental treatment costs. https://www.moh.gov.sg/managing-expenses/bills-and-fee-benchmarks/guide-to-dental-treatment-costs/

Singapore Dental Council. (2019). Ethical code and ethical guidelines (2018 ed., updated 15 April 2019). https://isomer-user-content.by.gov.sg/76/c10cc4de-6a21-4108-bde8-75b6a6683bec/sdc-eceg-2018---updated-15-april-2019108d468283c14e15b40f36d0ef057467.pdf

Singapore Dental Council. (2025a). Complaints against registered dentists and OHTs. https://www.sdc.gov.sg/for-public/complaints-against-registered-dentists-and-ohts/

Singapore Dental Council. (2025b). Continuing professional education (CPE). https://www.sdc.gov.sg/for-professionals/registered-dentists-and-ohts/continuing-professional-education/

Singapore Dental Council. (2025c). For dental specialist. https://www.sdc.gov.sg/for-professionals/apply-for-registration/for-dental-specialist/

Singapore Dental Council. (2025d). Use of professional titles and designations. https://www.sdc.gov.sg/for-professionals/apply-for-registration/use-of-professional-titles-and-designations/

Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Nuffield Dental is a dental clinic in Singapore providing services across several dental disciplines. Treatment is planned after a consultation and clinical assessment.

Nuffield Dental provides dental services across several disciplines at its clinics in Singapore. After a consultation and clinical assessment, your dentist sets out the treatment options that apply to your case, what each option involves and what it costs, before treatment begins.

More about Implants

Our dentists are registered with the Singapore Dental Council. The team includes dentists who provide root canal treatment, oral surgery and dental implant treatment. Each dentist's qualifications and registration details are listed on their profile page.

More about our Clinics

Articles

The newest and best lifestyle articles selected by our editorial team.

Dr Samintharaj Kumar accepts the Singapore Company of Good 3 Hearts Recognition on behalf of Nuffield Holdings Private Limited.

20 Jul 2026
2 mins read

Nuffield Holdings Private Limited Recognised as a Singapore Company of Good

Nuffield Holdings Private Limited is pleased to announce that it has been conferred the Singapore Company of Good 3 Hearts Recognition by the...

4 Jul 2026
4 mins read
gum recession, Gum Disease

Receding Gums in Singapore Causes, Treatment & Cost

What are receding gums? Receding gums happens when the gums draw back from the teeth, hence exposing the roots underneath. The condition is common -...

11 Feb 2026
2 mins read
Dental Fillings

Mercury-Based Dental Fillings: Global Shifts and Nuffield Dental’s Clinical Approach

Why the Global Phase-Down Is Happening Mercury is listed by the WHO as one of the top ten chemicals of public health concern. In dentistry, the...

How to Choose the Best Dentist (2026)

What Makes a Good Dentist?

How to Check a Dentist Is Registered

How to Search the SDC Register

What the SDC Register Shows

How to Check a Dentist Is Registered

Dentist Qualifications and Experience

Communication and Informed Consent

Choosing a Dentist When You Feel Anxious

Relaxation Techniques

Sedation Dentistry

How to Evaluate Dentist Reviews and Recommendations

Questions to Ask a Dentist at Your First Consultation

Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Cost Of Root Canal Treatment In Singapore

Cost Of Root Canal Treatment In Singapore

Root Canal Treatment FAQs

Orchard Dental

The Nuffield Dental Clinic Network In Singapore

FAQs

How Do I Find a Dentist Who Speaks My Language?

How Do I Choose the Best Dentist for My Child?

Can I Meet a Dentist Before Committing to Treatment?

Can I Get a Second Opinion From Another Dentist?

What Does Dental Surgeon Mean After a Dentist's Name?

What Can I Do If I Have Concerns About a Dentist's Conduct?

How Much Does Visiting a Dentist Cost in Singapore?

Can You Use CHAS, MediSave or Dental Insurance at Your Dentist?

Medical References

Book an Appointment

Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Articles