Dental Check-Up in Singapore: What to Expect and Why It Matters

You might assume that if your teeth feel fine, there's no need to see a dentist just yet. But many dental problems, from tooth decay and gum disease to precancerous changes, start quietly and often without any noticeable symptoms. By the time something hurts, the problem may have already progressed.

Regular dental check-ups can detect these issues early, when they're easier to treat and before they affect your daily comfort.

What is a dental check-up?

A dental check-up is a thorough examination of your mouth and surrounding tissues. Your dentist assesses your lips, teeth, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, palate, and the floor of your mouth using specialised dental instruments.

Since everyone's oral anatomy is unique, certain changes may develop without noticeable symptoms. Regular check-ups help identify concerns early, giving you peace of mind about your oral health.

These appointments benefit people at every life stage, from babies to the elderly. Your dentist evaluates all oral structures, not just your teeth, ensuring your mouth stays healthy through proper oral hygiene practices.

Why is it important to get a dental check-up?

Since dental health plays an important role in maintaining daily comfort, it's important to take care of your teeth. Regular check-ups help to maintain healthy, functional teeth, which support how you speak, eat, and express yourself with confidence.

Without routine dental care and good oral health habits, you may experience challenges such as:

Speech

Clear speech relies on the coordinated work of your teeth, tongue, and palate. When any of these are affected by dental disease, you may notice changes in how you pronounce certain sounds or words.

Chewing

Having missing teeth or an imbalanced jaw joint can make eating more challenging. You may also experience discomfort when opening or closing your mouth.

Smile

Tooth loss or misalignment can affect how confident you feel when you smile. The appearance of your smile can also be affected by jaw growth patterns or lip structure. 

Screening for early concerns

Many oral conditions develop quietly without symptoms in their early stages, including:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Bite alignment issues
• Precancerous changes
• Bad breath causes
• Issues requiring root canal treatment

Although dental visits may not always be a priority when you're feeling well, it is still important to maintain regular check-ups. This is because they can help identify potential issues early on, before they develop into problems that could affect your comfort or require more extensive treatment.

If you're concerned about conditions developing without symptoms, schedule an appointment with Thomson Dental Centre. Our dentists can examine your mouth thoroughly and help identify any concerns before they progress.

What does a dental check-up include?

Dental check-ups take place at licensed dental clinics, where a dentist will examine you. They may ask about your medical history, as certain health conditions can affect your oral health. They'll also ask you additional questions during your visit to understand your concerns.

External examination

Your dentist begins by examining the outside of your mouth, looking at:

• Facial symmetry

• Jaw joints

• Lymph nodes

• Mouth opening and movement

You may be asked to remove headwear or accessories that could interfere with the dental exam.

Internal examination

Next, your dentist examines the inside of your mouth, assessing:

• Teeth and gums

• Tongue and cheek linings

• Floor of the mouth and palate

• Muscles and supporting tissues

• Oral cancer screening for abnormal tissue changes

During this phase, your dentist will also assess your oral hygiene to identify areas that may need additional care at home.

Next steps

After the dental exam, your dentist may recommend additional tests, such as dental X-rays, to gain a clearer picture of your oral health. They'll then discuss their findings with you and suggest a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include procedures like root canal therapy if needed or cosmetic options like teeth whitening.

How much is a dental check-up in Singapore?

Dental check-up costs typically range from $30 to $200 or more, depending on the clinic and services provided. Public institutions like polyclinics generally offer lower fees, while private clinics often have shorter waiting times. Your dental clinic can provide you with specific pricing information to help you plan ahead.

Can I use MediSave or CHAS to pay for a dental check-up?

If you hold a CHAS card, you can access subsidies for scaling and polishing procedures. Depending on your card type, you'll receive between $20 and $40 in support. You can find more details about CHAS subsidies on the official CHAS website.

While MediSave generally doesn't cover routine dental check-ups, it may be used for dental surgical procedures that are medically necessary. Some patients also use dental insurance to cover additional treatments. Feel free to discuss eligibility and payment options during your visit – understanding your choices helps you make decisions that feel right for you.

If you have any questions regarding payment options or which subsidies apply to your current situation, please contact our medical concierge team. Our team can clarify the costs and explain the financial support available to help with the cost of your care.

FAQ

How often should you go for a dental check-up?

Most people benefit from a check-up every 6 months to a year. Your dentist can recommend a schedule that suits your individual needs.

Will dental X-rays be taken during a routine check-up?

Your dentist will only take dental X-rays if they're needed to assess your oral health more thoroughly. These images help identify oral health issues that aren't visible during a visual dental examination, ensuring you receive comprehensive care.

Is a dental check-up painful?

Routine check-ups are generally comfortable and painless. Your dentist will examine your mouth visually and may use instruments to gently assess your teeth and gums. You might feel slight pressure or sensitivity, but this shouldn't cause discomfort.

Do you need a dental check-up if your teeth feel fine?

Yes, regular dental exams remain important even when everything feels normal. Many conditions – such as early tooth decay, gum disease, or early oral cancer – develop without noticeable symptoms at first. 

What should you do to prepare for your dental check-up?

Simply brush and floss as you normally would before your dental appointment. Bring along any relevant medical records and a list of current medications. If you feel anxious about dental visits, let the clinic know when you book – they're there to support you.

Can you eat or drink before a dental check-up?

Yes, you can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. It's helpful to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth afterwards, particularly after strong-flavoured foods. Avoid alcohol beforehand, as it may affect any dental treatments you might need.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situation, schedule an appointment with a dentist at Thomson Dental Centre.