More support for special needs patients with new dental speciality

Specialists in this field better understand link between medical conditions, oral health

- Zhaki Abdullah

Born with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, 22-year-old Hillary Chua uses a wheelchair and cannot perform daily functions independently.

Her 57-year-old mother, Ms Cindy Wong, has been taking care of her full time, including diligently cleaning her teeth.

Finding a dentist who is trained to treat special needs patients was challenging. Then, during the Covid-19 pandemic, Ms Wong stopped dentist visits altogether because of restrictions.

In 2024, she noticed a bad odour from her daughter's mouth.

They were referred to the National University Centre for Oral Health Singapore (Nucohs), where Ms Chua was treated by Dr Tay Chong Meng, division head of advanced general dental practice.

Dr Tay and his team carefully assessed her needs, as well as the unique challenges posed by her condition, and put together a tailored treatment plan prioritising her safety and comfort.

They worked with her mother in providing head support for Ms Chua - who occasionally has sudden head movements owing to her lack of muscle control - and trying out various positions to reach her inner teeth, which is challenging as she has difficulty opening her mouth.

Dr Tay is among Singapore's growing cohort of special care dentists, an area of specialisation that was officially recognised in July.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced that the Dental Specialists Accreditation Board (DSAB) will recognise special care dentistry as the eighth dental speciality, joining others such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics and paediatric dentistry.

"The new dental speciality addresses the growing need for specialised dental care, particularly in the light of Singapore's ageing population," MOH had said.

Specialists in the field look after the oral healthcare of adults with complex needs, such as those with physical, developmental or cognitive conditions that prevent them from receiving routine dental care.