SINKING HIS TEETH INTO EYE PROSTHETICS

Dentist Teoh Khim Hean handcrafts prosthetic eyes, helping patients reclaim dignity after loss

- Amrita Kaur

At first glance, Clinical Associate Professor Teoh Khim Hean's work might seem unlikely for a dentist.

Based at National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS), he does not just fix teeth. He also crafts prosthetic eyes by hand, restoring not just appearances, but also confidence and dignity to patients who have lost an eye.

His journey into the delicate art of eye prosthetics began more than two decades ago during a stint in New York.

"I first became interested in crafting prosthetic eyes during my maxillofacial prosthetics attachment in New York in 2001," recalls the 61-year-old, who is a senior consultant in prosthodontics at NDCS' department of restorative dentistry.

"Around that time, I learnt that a one-stop clinic for prosthetic eye services was being established at Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC). That opportunity sparked my curiosity and led me to explore the art and science behind creating ocular prostheses."

Back in Singapore, Prof Teoh began training under a senior colleague. He realised that while the techniques share similarities with denture-making, prosthetic eye work posed a unique challenge.

It is more demanding as it requires an artistic touch, especially in painting the iris to achieve symmetry and realism.

"Unlike dentures, ocular prostheses demand meticulous colour work, pushing the limits of both clinical precision and artistry."

Technology has not caught up with his steady hand.

While 3D printing and scanning have advanced rapidly in many medical fields, when it comes to crafting a lifelike iris - particularly for Asian eyes with their subtle undertones - manual craftsmanship remains unrivalled.

"Current 3D scanning technology is limited in its ability to capture the intricate depth and subtle colour gradations found in a real iris. It records mostly surface data," says Prof Teoh.