Say aah ! Why is Singapore neglecting dental health?

Misplaced priorities? People maintain their cars diligently but skip regular visits to the dentist.

- Teo Yik Ying

A recent report revealed that half of the children in Singapore experience tooth decay by kindergarten age, leading to pain, missed school and even extractions. For a high-income nation renowned for its well-organised health system, this figure is both surprising and alarming.

How is it that Singapore, with robust public health programmes targeting conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, struggles with something as fundamental as children's dental health?

This question highlights systemic gaps in oral health, not just for children but across all age groups.

The National Adult Oral Health Survey in 2019 revealed high rates of untreated tooth decay and gum disease among Singaporean adults, with over three-quarters of those aged between 21 and 64 suffering from periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place. This happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and is not properly removed.

While regular brushing and flossing are important, professional dental cleaning can access areas that are otherwise inaccessible, such as deep gum pockets.

For three-quarters of the adults surveyed to suffer from periodontal disease points to a widespread neglect of preventive dental care. Is this also the reason why our kindergarten children have such bad teeth, because the parents themselves don't care much about maintaining their own teeth?

Oral health issues extend beyond cosmetic concerns. Untreated tooth decay can cause pain, infections and tooth loss, which can affect eating, speaking and social interactions.

Chronic gum disease has also been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections.

For individuals with diabetes, poor oral health can worsen complications, including kidney damage and nerve issues.