Tooth Talk

YOUR DENTAL AND ORTHODONTIC QUESTIONS ANSWERED.

- Christel Gomes

What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? What happens if your child needs braces? And what should you know about early orthodontic screening? We speak to three reputable dental practitioners here in Singapore to answer these questions, and more.

It’s always challenging to navigate healthcare options, especially as an expat in an unfamiliar country. Thankfully, Singapore is easier than most places and offers excellent dental care options. You can pick up the phone for an appointment, or – in many cases – simply walk in.

First, you’ll need to decide if it’s a dentist or an orthodontist you’re seeking. If your child needs a basic check-up, you’ll want to find a dentist to concentrate on the broader aspects of the mouth; an orthodontist, on the other hand, specialises in the correction of dental irregularities such as crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, and over- or under-bites.

“When is the right time for my child’s first dental visit?”

According to DR STEPHANIE SALANITRI of Smilefocus, your child’s first visit to the dentist should be between 12 and 18 months, or when the first tooth erupts. A quick check at this early stage will identify factors in your child’s habits and dietary history that may contribute to his or her tooth decay risk. Baby teeth are especially vulnerable to decay because the enamel is softer and thinner than in adult teeth, so sugar and food acids can cause more damage.

Taking your child in for regular screenings while he or she is still an infant is a good idea because it helps them perceive the dental clinic as a safe, familiar place, rather than the source of nightmares! Early visits also set the stage for good dental habits and early modifications to diet as part of preventative care.

“What should I expect from a first visit?”