How Much Does It Cost to See a Dentist in Singapore?

Going to the dentist is something most people try to avoid until they really have to. But when a toothache hits or your gums start to bleed, you have no choice. You need help. Fast. One of the biggest questions people ask before walking into a dental clinic is this: How much is it going to cost? In Singapore, the answer depends on a few key things. This article will walk you through what you can expect when it comes to dental costs, whether you are going for a simple cleaning or something more serious.

Public vs Private Clinics: Big Price Gap

The first thing that affects price is where you go. In Singapore, you can choose between public dental clinics or private ones.

Public clinics, like those under the National Healthcare Group Polyclinics (NHGP), tend to charge much less. These are subsidised by the government. You will usually wait longer for an appointment, but the cost is much lower. A basic check-up and cleaning can cost around $15 to $60 if you are a Singaporean citizen and using government subsidies.

Private dental clinics, on the other hand, charge more. But they often have shorter wait times and more flexible hours. Some clinics even let you book same-day visits. A simple check-up and cleaning at a private clinic can start at $80 and go up to $150 or more.

Read More: What to Expect from Dentists in Bedok

What Type of Treatment Do You Need?

The type of dental work you need will change the price fast. Here are common treatments and their usual costs:

1. Dental Cleaning (Scaling and Polishing)

- Public clinic: $15 to $60 with subsidies

- Private clinic: $80 to $150

This is a basic service to remove tartar and plaque. It helps keep your teeth and gums healthy.

2. Filling a Cavity

- Public clinic: $30 to $60

- Private clinic: $80 to $200

The price goes up based on the size of the cavity and the type of material used. White (composite) fillings usually cost more than silver (amalgam) ones.

3. Tooth Extraction

- Public clinic: $15 to $75

- Private clinic: $80 to $250

Wisdom teeth, especially impacted ones, cost more. A surgical removal at a private clinic can be as high as $800.

4. Root Canal Treatment

- Public clinic: $200 to $400 per tooth

- Private clinic: $500 to $1,500 per tooth

This is one of the more expensive treatments. It involves removing the nerve from an infected tooth and sealing it. It usually takes more than one visit.

5. Dental Crowns

- Public clinic: Around $750

- Private clinic: $700 to $1,800

Crowns are caps placed over damaged teeth. They can be made of metal, ceramic, or a mix. Materials affect price.

6. Braces

- Public clinic (for students in school programs): Around $2,000 to $3,000

- Private clinic: $3,500 to $7,000

Braces are a long-term plan and need regular visits. Invisalign, which is a clear type of braces, can cost even more—usually $4,500 to $9,000.

7. Teeth Whitening

- Public clinic: Rarely offered

- Private clinic: $400 to $1,200

This is a cosmetic treatment. It is not covered by any subsidy, and prices depend on the method used.

Are You Eligible for Subsidies?

If you are a Singaporean citizen, you may be able to use subsidies to lower the cost. CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) is one such program. It gives discounts at approved clinics based on your household income.

The CHAS Blue and Orange cards give the most help to lower-income groups. A basic dental service like scaling and polishing could cost as little as $15 with the card. Seniors aged 60 and above can also get help through the Merdeka and Pioneer Generation schemes.

To enjoy the subsidy, you must go to a CHAS-approved clinic. The clinic staff will let you know how much you can claim and how much you must pay.

Medisave and Dental Costs

Medisave is a savings account under the CPF system. It helps Singaporeans pay for medical needs. But not all dental work can be paid with Medisave.

Only surgical treatments qualify. This includes:

- Wisdom tooth surgery

- Dental implants

- Some jaw surgeries

If your treatment is covered, you can use $250 to $1,250 from your Medisave per surgery, depending on how complex it is. For simple check-ups or fillings, you must pay from your own pocket.

What If You Are a Foreigner?

If you are not a citizen or PR, you will not get any subsidy. Expect to pay the full rate. Public clinics still charge less than private ones, but the wait may be longer. For fast service and more flexible choices, private clinics are the usual pick for most foreigners.

Other Costs to Watch For

Some clinics charge consultation fees on top of treatment costs. This can range from $20 to $60. X-rays may cost another $30 to $100, depending on the type. If you need emergency dental care outside regular hours, expect an extra fee.

Always ask for a full breakdown before treatment starts. This helps avoid surprises later.

Final Thoughts

Seeing a dentist in Singapore can cost very little or a lot, depending on where you go and what you need. Public clinics are cheaper but may come with long waits. Private clinics cost more, but they often offer quicker service. If you are a citizen or PR, make use of CHAS, Medisave, and other support to lower your bill. If you are unsure about prices, call the clinic ahead of time and ask for a quote. It is your right to know what you are paying for.

Good oral health is not just about having a nice smile. It helps prevent bigger health issues down the road. Catching problems early can save both pain and money. So do not wait too long to book that dental visit.