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Feedback / Frequently Asked Questions

We welcome your feedback. If you have questions or feedback on matters related to the registration and regulation of conduct of registered dental practitioners including dentists and oral health therapists in Singapore, you may wish to refer to the Frequently Asked Questions below to see if your queries have already been addressed.

Otherwise, please email your enquiry to SDC@spb.gov.sg.

Registration

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Q1. How do I register to be a dentist? What is the registration process?

A1. The registration policies, procedures and details of the documents to be submitted are listed here.

You must fulfil the prevailing requirements for registration. Login to the Professional Registration System (PRS) to submit a registration application online. 

Before you start, please ensure that you have the soft copies of all the supporting documents ready, as required by the respective types of registration. You are required to download Authorisation for Release of Information forms A and B from the SDC website. Please remember to upload forms A and B in your online application.

Q2. What is a Letter of Fitness from a medical practitioner? Is there a template? Can I submit one from overseas?

A2. The Letter of Fitness is a letter or memo written by the medical practitioner which certifies that you are fit for employment (in this case, to practise as a dentist). There is no template to be provided. 

Overseas medical reports and Letter of Fitness are subject to the Council’s acceptance. You may submit them in your application for Council’s consideration. However, in the event that the documents are not accepted by the Council, you will be required to re-submit the documents from a local laboratory and / or clinic in Singapore.

Q3. I have not practised anywhere overseas after graduation, and neither am I registered with any dental board or council overseas. How should I proceed with the submission of the Certificate of Registration?

A3. You may omit the submission of both the Certificate of Registration and Certificate of Good Standing, if you have not been registered with any dental board / council overseas since graduation. However, you will be required to submit a declaration letter to state your non-registration status and reason(s), in lieu of the omitted documents.

Q4. If my basic dental qualification is neither from a local university in Singapore nor specified in the Schedule, can I still apply for Registration?

A4. As your basic dental qualification is not recognised by the Singapore Dental Council, you will not be able to apply for registration. However, you may apply to sit for the Qualifying Examination (QE) if you meet the prevailing criteria, subject to the Council’s approval. 

For more information on the QE, please refer to the section on Qualifying Examination below.

Q5. I have overseas training in dentistry. Is my qualification recognised to register as a dentist with SDC?

A5. Please refer to the Schedule for the list of qualifications and degrees that are recognised by SDC for registration to be a dentist.

Q6. I enrolled for a course that is recognised under the list of schools in the Schedule. However, the name of the course and the degree to be conferred has since been changed. Will I still be able to register with SDC as a dentist upon returning to Singapore?

A6. Your registration will be subject to approval by the Council. Any changes to the name of the school or qualification found in the Schedule’s registrable dental qualifications will be subject to approval by Council at the time when you apply for registration with SDC to be a dentist.

Q7. What are the additional qualifications that are not accepted for display?

A7. For additional qualifications that are not related to patient-care, they will not be accepted as displayable qualifications and should not be listed on the clinic website / social media, clinic premises and stationery. Dentists, however, can include non-patient care qualifications or titles on their personal (non-clinic patient care related) name card or stationery.

Q8. How do I apply for a Certificate of Good Standing?

A8. Only dentists under Full Registration are eligible to apply. Dentists registered under Conditional Registration and Temporary Registration will be issued a Letter stating the period of registration.


Dentists requesting for a Certificate of Good Standing can submit the application online.


Q9. How will I receive the Certificate of Good Standing?

A9. The Certificate/Letter of Good Standing will be sent to the relevant requesting authority directly from SDC.

The Council does not allow self-collection, or request to send the original copy of the Certificate/Letter of Good Standing to the dental professional's residential/practice place address. For further queries, please email to SDC@spb.gov.sg.

Q10. How do I register to become a Dental Specialist? What is the registration process?

A10. You should first obtain accreditation from the Dental Specialist Accreditation Board (DSAB). For more information on DSAB's requirements, please visit the DSAB website.

Upon obtaining the letter of accreditation from DSAB, you may proceed to apply for registration as a specialist with the Singapore Dental Council. Prior to application, please ensure that you have registered the relevant higher qualifications with the Council.

Q11. I am an Oral Health Therapist / Dental Therapist / Dental Hygienist. What is the work scope that I can perform?

A11. The Oral Health Therapist (OHT) functions as an important member of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team. OHT works in collaboration with registered  dentist. OHT should not practise beyond the approved scope of practice unless approval from the Council is granted.

Please refer to the work scope for OHTs, Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists here.


Practising Certificate – Dentists

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Q1. How do I apply for a Practicing Certificate (PC)?

A1. You must login to the Professional Registration System (PRS) to apply for renewal of PC. The online application will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. 

Even if your employer is paying PC fees on your behalf or you are under GIRO scheme, you will still need to submit an online application for renewal of PC.

Q2. What happens if my PC has expired?

A2. You must cease practice immediately if your PC has expired. You can only resume practice after you have successfully renewed and received your PC.

If you apply for a PC less than one month before the expiration of the PC, you shall be liable to pay to the Council a late application fee. 

The current late payment fees (in addition to the renewal fee payable) are as follows:
• $75.00 is payable if the application is made less than one month before the expiration of the practising certificate (i.e. from 1 December of the renewal year)
• $200.00 is payable if the application is made after the expiration of the practising certificate (i.e. from 1 January of the succeeding year) 

Example: For Dentist PC renewal exercise in 2019, a penalty fee of $75.00 applies for PC renewal applications submitted from 1 December 2019, and a penalty fee of $200.00 applies for PC renewal applications submitted from 1 January 2020.

Practising Certificate – Oral Health Therapists (OHTs)

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Q1. My PC is about to expire. How do I renew my PC?

A1. You are required to apply for renewal of your PC not later than one month before its expiry, otherwise, a late application fee will be imposed.

The fee for renewal of OHT PC with a validity of 2 years is $100.00. 

The current late payment fees (in addition to the renewal fee payable) are as follows:
• $20.00 is payable if the application is made less than one month before the expiration of the practising certificate (i.e. from 1 December of the renewal year)
• $50.00 is payable if the application is made after the expiration of the practising certificate (i.e. from 1 January of the succeeding year) 

Example: For OHT PC renewal exercise in 2020, a penalty fee of $20.00 applies for PC renewal applications submitted from 1 December 2020, and a penalty fee of $50.00 applies for PC renewal applications submitted from 1 January 2021. 

You are required to submit the application online.

Q2. Is the Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) required to renew my PC?

A2. OHTs are only required to fulfil BCLS (theory) for renewal of PC biennially. 4 core points will be awarded for BCLS (theory). BCLS (practical) is optional for OHTs. OHTs who have completed BCLS (practical + theory) will be awarded 6 core points accordingly.

Inactive Practice

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Q1. What should I do if I wish to stop practising temporarily?

A1. Dentists on Full Registration who have no intention to engage in active practice of dentistry (for reasons such as pursuing higher education or accompanying spouses overseas etc.) can either inform Council to cancel their   Practising Certificate (PC) or allow the PC to lapse after the expiry date. 

Under section 20(2) of Dental Registration Act, the fully registered dentist is allowed to stay “On” register for a period of up to 5 years, after his/her PC validity has lapsed. If the dentist fails to renew his/her PC after 5 years, his/her name may be removed from register.

Q2. What should I do if I wish to return to active practice?

A2. (i) For dentists who have been on inactive practice for less than 5 years

• For Division I dentists
Minimum of 18 CPE points with 20% core requirement and at least 13 verifiable CPE points must be accumulated within the last 6 months before starting active practice.

• For Division II dentists 
Minimum of 9 CPE points with 20% core requirement and at least 7 verifiable CPE points must be accumulated within the last 6 months before starting active practice.

Dentists are required to submit their CPE verifications online before submitting the “Practising Certificate Renewal application” to the Singapore Dental Council to activate their practising certificates.

(ii) Dentists who have been on inactive practice for more than 5 years and whose names have been removed from Register

Dentists who have been on inactive practice for more than 5 years and removed from the Register would need to apply for restoration to the Register. They are required to submit the CPE requisites as spelt out above via online system before applying for restoration via the PRS.

Continuing Professional Education

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Q1. What are the CPE requirements?

A1. All Division I dentists are required to achieve 70 CPE points within a qualifying period of 2 years. Out of the 70 points required, 50 points must be earned by attending verifiable activities, while the remaining 20 points may be non-verifiable. However, dentists who wish to attain all 70 points through verifiable activities may also do so. For Division II dentists and OHTs, they will need to fulfil 50% of the CPE requirements set for the Division I dentists. That is, they are only required to achieve 35 CPE points, with 25 points verifiable and 10 points non-verifiable.

Q2. What is the qualifying period to fulfil my CPE requirements?

A2. The qualifying period (QP) is 2 years. 

Example: For Dentist PC renewal exercise in October 2019, the QP will be from 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2019.

Q3. How do I claim points for CPE?

A3. Please login to PRS and submit your CPE claims under “Submit CPE claims”.  Each qualifying period (QP) will be for 2 years. You will not be able to submit an application for PC renewal if you did not fulfil your CPE and BCLS requirements.

Continuing Professional Education – CPE Providers

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Q1. Can I apply to be an ad-hoc CPE Provider?

A1. From 1 May 2019, Council will stop accepting ad-hoc provider applications. All existing ad-hoc providers’ status will cease at the expiry of their current validity. Providers that do not fall under the revised types of accredited providers are required to jointly organise CPE events with an Accredited provider. The co-organiser (i.e. Accredited provider) will be responsible to submit the application for event accreditation at least one month prior to the event and submit attendance within one month after the event.  

Please refer to SDC’s website for a list of accredited providers.

Cessation of Ad-hoc Providers’ Validity and Status 
With effect from 1 May 2019, there will only be one Category of Providers – “Accredited”. 

Applications to be an accredited provider apply to the following, 

o Public Healthcare Institutions and Hospitals
o Dental Societies and Associations 
o Private Healthcare Institutions
o Dental Clinics

All healthcare institutions, hospitals and clinics must be licensed by Ministry of Health (MOH) under the Private Hospitals and Medical Clinics (PHMC) Act to be eligible to apply as CPE providers.

Q2. What do I need to fulfil as an accredited provider?

A2. i. Administration
Accredited providers should assign an administrator to handle the necessary administrative responsibilities. He/ She will be responsible for the submission of event accreditation applications and attendance on PRS. He/ She will become the point of contact with SDC.

ii. Submission of Event
Accredited Providers have to submit their events on PRS at least 1 month before the event starts. It is encouraged that the events be submitted as early as possible.

iii. Attendance Record
The attendance record must adhere to the following:
Attendance must be taken at the beginning of each session/ activity. A column for DCR number and signature for verification must be included in the attendance list. Providers have to ensure that the DCR number is clearly written by the dental professional; otherwise, no CPE points will be awarded for the dental professional.

To ensure that the dental professionals who have attended the activity will be accredited with the points he/she deserves, the attendance record must be submitted to SDC via PRS by the following deadlines:

a. Category 1A activities: within 1 month after the end of every session
b. Category 1B activities: within 1 month from the last day of event

Important: Attendance records need not be submitted to SDC. However, providers are required to keep the hardcopy/electronic records of attendance for a minimum of 4 years and must be available upon request by SDC for audit purposes.

Q3. How do I apply to be an accredited provider?

A3. CPE Providers that wish to apply to be an accredited CPE provider must:

• Review and ensure that they have met the eligibility for accreditation
• Complete the online application form via this link 
• Attach a business profile and submit the completed form
• The processing time is approximately 2 weeks. Successful applicants will be informed via email.

Q4. I am an accredited provider. What do I need to do for accreditation for my CPE event?

A4. You are required to submit an application for event accreditation on PRS at least one month before the start of the event. You must attach the CVs of all speakers and programme outline with time allocation of each activity/topic, including breaks (if any). There must not be any indicative CPE points on programme outline and/or any other publicity materials prior to Council’s approval.

Q5. I did not submit my application 1 month before the CPE event. Is there any waiver of this application requirement of at least 1 calendar month?

A5. No appeals will be entertained. You have to comply with the application requirement and submit your application for event accreditation at least one month prior to the event.

Q6. I do not have the required supporting documents; can I submit application for my event online first?

A6. No, please submit your application for accreditation of event ONLY WHEN you have gathered all supporting documents, (1) speakers' CV and (2) programme outline with time allocation of each activity/topic, including breaks (if any). Please note that applications with incomplete information will not be processed.

Q7. If I am not able to submit the application for my event at least 1 calendar month prior to the start of the event due to some operational uncertainties, can exceptions be made for this late application?

A7. No appeals will be entertained. You have to comply with the application requirement to submit the CPE application at least 1 calendar month prior to the event.

Q8. I have printed the CPE points on publicity materials for my event before seeking SDC’s approval. What should I do?

A8. Please remove the indicative CPE points and re-submit them (if applicable) to SDC.

Supervisory Matters – Dentists under Conditional Registration and Oral Health Therapists under Part II

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Q1. Can I view my assessment reports?

A1. Assessment reports are strictly confidential. Only your supervisors are allowed to access the reports. Supervisees should arrange with the supervisors and have regular appraisals and discussions to review his /her performance and take remedial measures to improve where necessary to ensure that patient safety is not compromised.

Q2. How many registered practice addresses am I allowed to have?

A2. Conditionally registered dentists are only allowed to work at a maximum of two practice addresses. This is to ensure patient safety and proper supervision of conditionally registered dentist, including those working in group practices.

Q3. Can I practise as a conditionally registered dentist if I work part-time (less than 30 hours per week)?

A3. Yes, a conditionally registered dentist may practise part-time. However, this would not count towards the full-time working hours requirement to apply for full registration.

Q4. What happens if any of the supervisors is away?

A4. In the event that the approved supervisor(s) is/are away (“away” is defined as on official leave/medical leave/reservist), the following guidelines would apply:

• If one approved supervisor is away, the other approved supervisor must step in and supervise the supervisee. If the available approved supervisor is unable to supervise the supervisee at all times or if the supervisor is away for more than 30 days, the employer/clinic should nominate a replacement supervisor for Council’s approval. 

• If both approved supervisors are away for less than 30 days, the employer/clinic must ensure that other Division 1 dentist(s) with more than 5 years post Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) experience is/are assigned to oversee the work of the supervisee.

• If both approved supervisors are away for more than 30 days, the employer/clinic must nominate two new supervisors for Council’s approval at least two weeks before the start of the leave period.

Q5. What are the roles and responsibilities of a supervisor?

A5. The supervisor must:

• always be present when the supervisee is practising at the approved practice place(s),
• update practice place(s) details on the SDC website as and when there are changes,
• agree with the supervisee & employer on the period of supervision, period of review and place of practice,
• provide proper professional guidance and training to the supervisee,
• conduct periodic discussions with the supervisee to review his or her progress,
• ensure that the conduct and practice of the supervisee adheres to the regulations and guidelines of the Council (e.g. Dental Registration Act and Ethical Code & Ethical Guidelines (ECEG)) and is befitting of the dental profession,
• report to Council immediately if the supervisee is considered unsafe to practise,
• exercise due diligence and complete the assessment reports on time,
• ensure there are adequate time for supervision of the supervisee,
• be responsible on the quality of clinical care provided by the supervisee to the patients,
• only delegate tasks within the scope of competency and capability of the supervisee, and
• maintain a professional relationship with the supervisee that aligns with the guidelines in the Ethical Code of Conduct.

Please note that the supervisory report will determine if the conditionally registered dentist is able to perform his/her duties satisfactorily and practice safely and independently. The supervisor should exercise due diligence when completing the report for the dentist under his/her charge. Please complete every section of the report. In the event that a supervisor is unable to continue his supervisory duties for the full period of conditional registration, he/she should inform Council immediately and Council will write to the clinic to re-nominate a new supervisor.


Q6. What are the roles and responsibilities of a supervisee?

A6. A supervisee should:
• practise within the limits of his/her competency while under supervision at all times,
• agree with the supervisor(s) on the period of supervision, period of review and place of practice,
• promptly update the approved practice place(s) details on the SDC website as and when there are changes,
• make effort to ensure that the agreed period of supervision and review with the supervisors take place,
• seek assistance or guidance from supervisor(s) when in doubt,
• inform the supervisor immediately of any procedural errors,
• have periodic discussions with the supervisor to review performance on quality of dental care,
• maintain a professional relationship with the supervisor that aligns with the guidelines in the Ethical Code & Ethical Guidelines (ECEG), and
• inform Council immediately when ending any employment and joining any new employment at least two weeks prior to any change.

Q7. How do I submit an assessment report?

A7. • Both approved supervisors are required to submit assessment reports for the supervisee to the Council once every 6 months.
• Assessments reports will be sent online from SDC to the supervisors for their completion every 6 months from the start of practise of the supervisee.
• The assessment report must be completed within two weeks.
• To access the pending assessment reports, supervisors may login to the Professional Registration System and click on Supervisory » Pending Assessment Reports on the left panel. Supervisor will be able to see the list of assessment reports assigned and pending his/her completion.


Q8. I would like to work as a part-time instead of full-time. How do I do this?

A8. All employment arrangements are strictly between you and your employer. 

From March 2018, the Council has permitted dentists/ OHTs in private clinics to work part time and at 2 practice places/ addresses. However, you are required to be supervised by 2 supervisors in each practice place / address, one principal and one secondary (you must have a total of 4 supervisors overseeing your work in 2 practice addresses). All supervisors must be approved by the Council.  

You have to check that your employer submit the completed nomination form to SDC at least 2 working weeks with the named supervisors and indicate in remarks that you are working part time and estimated hours per week and at 2 practice places and estimated hours per week at each place.

For OHT, please update your particulars via PRS to “working part-time in Singapore” and indicate the number of hours you are working under each practice address in the employment details tab.

Important note for OHT: Should you wish to apply for conversion to Part I of the OHT Register, please note that you must receive the minimal grade of “satisfactory” performance in supervisory reports over a period of 5 years, working at least 30 hours per week (clinical duties only).

Q9. I am currently an OHT under Part II of the register. How do I convert from Part II to Part I?

A9. You must have consistently obtained satisfactory assessment reports as a Part II OHT under the supervision of a Division I Dentist, for a period of 5 years under full-time employment (more than 30 hours of clinical duties per week). You will need to login to PRS to submit an application for Part I OHT.

Q10. How soon can a Conditionally Registered dentist apply for Full Registration?

A10. A dentist under Conditional Registration (C-reg) may apply for Full Registration (F-reg) after he/she has accrued at least 2 years of full-time practice under the supervision of approved supervisors.

Q11. How long is the processing time for conversion application from Conditional Registration to Full Registration?

A11. When a Conditionally Registered (C-reg) dentist applies for Full Registration, SDC will check if the C-reg dentist has met the eligibility criteria, check that all assessment reports have been completed by the supervisors, remind supervisors to submit outstanding reports, sought clarifications with supervisors and compile the case with complete documentations for Council’s deliberation and approval. Upon Council’s approval, the outcomes will be emailed to the C-reg dentist and the supervisor(s) within a month from the date of the decision. The conversion process will take about 3 months. Council requires the timely support from the supervisors for timely processing of the C-reg dentist’s conversion to F-reg application.

Q12. Will my supervision hours during Circuit Breaker be counted into my 2-year supervision requirements for Conditionally Registered dentists?

A12. Council noted the trying times during the Circuit Breaker (CB) period from April to May 2020, where most dental services were disrupted. After receiving the Full Registration application from the C-reg dentist affected by the CB period, SDC will write to the C-reg dentist to enquire whether he/she had practised full-time (at least 30 hours per week). If he/she had clocked in the full time period, he/she may submit a letter from the employer stating so and the 2 months practice period will be counted into his/her conversion requirements.

However, if the C-reg dentist confirms that he/she did not practise full-time during the CB period, his/her application will be withheld for an additional 2 months (if required) for SDC to obtain an additional 2 months of assessment reports from his/her approved supervisors.

Aesthetic Facial Procedures

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Q1. How do I apply to perform aesthetic facial procedures?

A1. To perform aesthetic facial procedures, you must ensure that you meet the requirements as stated in the Guidelines on Aesthetic Facial Procedures for Dental Practitioners (Guidelines AFP 2021) [PDF, 213KB] in addition to complying with any other rules/conditions that are appended to your registration. 

For non-Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMS), please submit
(a) Completed Application Form [PDF, 222KB]
(b) Copy of Certificate of Competence (COC)

For OMS, please submit
(a) Completed Application Form [PDF, 222KB]
(b) Copy of COC (for Table 1 procedures)
(c) Copy of AAAM Level 1 Certificate/equivalent or COC (for Table 2 procedures)
(d) Proof of relevant training/experience in the procedure applied for (for Table 2 procedures if required). For example, log book, preceptorship, HMDP attachment, etc. 

For subsequent applications to perform botulinum toxin injection and dermal filler injection, please submit the required documents (i.e Cover sheet [PDF, 116KB]and illustration log [PDF, 100KB] or COC) together with the completed application form.

With effect from 1 November 2021, please email your application to sdc@spb.gov.sg (Attention: Secretariat (Aesthetic Facial Procedures)). Please ensure that all fields of the application form are completed and attached with the supporting documents.
 
Please refer to the Council’s website for more details on application and approval.

Q2. Do I need to apply for accreditation to perform botulinum toxin injections if I am performing it on a functional basis only e.g. management of bruxism?

A2. Botox for functional purposes such as myalgia and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) dysfunction is permitted for dental practitioners and does not require accreditation. However, Botox injection for cosmetic purposes will require Council’s accreditation.

Q3. Can I attend overseas courses to be accredited to perform Botox, fillers and/or chemical peels?

A3. For first accreditation to perform botox, fillers and/or chemical peels:

You are required to attend an SDC-approved course in Singapore. Please refer to the current list of accredited COC Courses and the Requirements for Courses Applying for Certificate of Competency for more information.

For subsequent accreditation to perform botox, fillers and/or chemical peels:

You can attend overseas advanced courses to be accredited to perform aesthetic facial procedures. However, you are reminded to be practice within your scope of competence. 

After you have completed the course(s), please fill in the application form and attach the relevant documents, including a copy of your course certificate(s), and submit your application to sdc@spb.gov.sg (Attention: Secretariat (Aesthetic Facial Procedures)).

Q4. Is there a list of accredited Certificate of Competence (COC) courses?

A4. Yes. Please refer to the current list of accredited COC Courses for more information.

Q5. Is there any certificate issued? How will others verify that I have it?

A5. Please note that presently, no certificate/printable document is issued. You may wish to keep a copy of the approval email, as well as your course certificate submitted with your application to the Council, should anyone wish to verify the accreditation. 

Q6. I am a dentist under conditional registration. Can I apply to perform aesthetic facial procedures?

A6. Conditionally registered dentists are not permitted to perform Aesthetic Facial Procedures. Under Conditional Registration, you are required to familiarise yourself with the dental environment in Singapore while under the supervision of a Division 1 dentist. After you have successfully converted to Full Registration, you may pursue the various areas of dentistry, such as aesthetic facial procedures. 

Q7. I am a course provider seeking accreditation of my company’s aesthetic COC course. How do I apply for the accreditation and CPE points?

A7. Please ensure that the course has met the Requirements for Courses Applying for Certificate of Competency and submit the following:
(a) Programme details
(b) CVs of instructors and speakers
(c) Proof of accreditation by SDC or SMC as Continuing Professional Education (CPE) provider

Accreditation of courses as providers of COC is valid for two years. After two years, the respective course organisers will need to re-apply for accreditation.

Applications should be submitted at least one calendar month before the course date. The minimum processing time is two working weeks (from date when full supporting documents are received).

Q8. I am a course provider seeking renewal of my previously approved COC course. How do I renew and how do I apply for CPE points?

A8. Please check that there is no change to the duration, content, assessment, instructor or any other part of the course submitted in the initial application that had been approved. Should there be a change in any of the aforementioned, you will need to submit a new application.

For accreditation of event for CPE points, providers are required to login to PRS and apply for event accreditation at least one month before the start of the event. Please attach (1) CV of speakers and (2) programme outline with time allocation of each activity/ topic, including breaks (if any). 

Do note that the minimum processing time is 2 weeks (from the date the full supporting documents are received).

Q9. Can I be re-accredited to perform Table 1 procedures (i.e botulinum toxin injection, dermal filler injection, and chemical peels) if my previous accreditation had lapsed?

A9. Should your previous accreditation to perform Table 1 procedures lapse, you may submit an application for re-accreditation, provided that the criteria for re-accreditation has been satisfied, and the period of lapse was less than 12 months ago.

Should the lapse occur more than 12 months ago, you are required to submit a new application and will require three cycles of approvals to be permanently accredited to perform the procedure(s).

However, please note that Council reserves the right to impose additional conditions at any time if the dental practitioner is found to have compromised patient safety and/or in breach of the SDC ECEG.
 
Please ensure that you submit your application for re-accreditation at least two months before the expiry date. Late application may not be processed and approved before the expiry date.

Complaints Against Dentists and Oral Health Therapists

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Q1. Can SDC help me to assess whether there are grounds for me to lodge a complaint?

A1. The SDC does not assess whether there are grounds for individual to lodge a complaint. While so, the SDC will let you know of other avenues available where you may choose to seek redress if they are more likely to match your desired outcomes.

Generally, the SDC will look into any written complaint that falls within the scope of section 34(1) of the Dental Registration Act (“DRA”) that is supported by a Statutory Declaration (“SD”). The complaint should contain information about the dentist or oral health therapist that you would like SDC to look into.

Q2. How do I lodge a complaint against a dentist or oral health therapist?

A2. The SDC operates under the remit of the DRA in regulating the conduct of registered dental practitioners in Singapore. 

Under the DRA, if you wish to lodge a complaint against a dentist or oral health therapist, you must submit a written complaint accompanied by a Statutory Declaration (“SD”) which must be affirmed before a Commissioner for Oaths / Justice of Peace. 

Your complaint should be typewritten in English and should include the full name of the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s), the full facts of the case and your allegations against the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s). Please refer to the Sample Template for an example when preparing your type-written complaint.

Please ensure that your full name, address, occupation and contact details are included in the SD. Once the SD has been duly affirmed / sworn, you can submit the SD and your letter of complaint to: 

Singapore Dental Council
81 Kim Keat Road
#09-00
NKF Building
Singapore 328836
Attention: Inspecting Officer

For more information on how to lodge a complaint with the SDC, please refer to the Common Queries section on Complaints Matters”. If you have reviewed the FAQs, read the following section and have further queries or concerns, please contact SDC here.

Q3. I am a foreigner / a foreigner who will be returning to my country shortly. How do I lodge a complaint against a dentist whom I consulted while I was in Singapore?

A3. Under the DRA, if you wish to lodge a complaint against a dental practitioner, you must submit a written complaint accompanied by a Statutory Declaration (“SD”) which can be affirmed / sworn before a Commissioner for Oaths / Justice of Peace. 

Your complaint should be typewritten in English and should include the full name of the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s), the full facts of the case and your allegations against the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s), as well as the supporting documents (if any). Please refer to the Sample Template for an example when preparing your type-written complaint. 

If you are not able to lodge your complaint while in Singapore, the SD can be made before a notary public or justice of peace, or with other person having authority under any law for the time being in force in that country to take or receive a declaration. 

Please ensure that your name, residing home country address/ contact details and occupation are included in the Statutory Declaration. Once the SD has been duly affirmed / sworn, you can submit the SD and your letter of complaint to: 

Singapore Dental Council
81 Kim Keat Road
#09-00
NKF Building
Singapore 328836
Attention: Inspecting Officer

Q4. Where can I find a Commissioner for Oaths / Justice of Peace? Is it chargeable?

A4. You can find a list here or you can search for a Commissioner for Oaths, Justice of the Peace, Notary Public or other officer empowered by law to administer oaths, affirmation or affidavits on your own. Please note that charges will apply for their service. You can refer to the Commissioners for Oaths Rules under Part II of the Schedule ‘Fees to be charged by a Commissioner for Oaths’.

Q5. Can SDC advise me on whether the treatment I received from the dentist is appropriate?

A5. The SDC does not advise on the treatment by a dentist. If you have concerns about the treatment you have received, you may wish to clarify with the dentist/clinic first and/or seek a second opinion before deciding on your next course of action.

Q6. Can I submit a complaint against the hospital/clinic?

A6. The SDC can only consider complaints against dental practitioners and is not empowered by law to look into complaints against any healthcare institution(s).

Dental clinics and other healthcare establishments are regulated under the Private Hospitals and Medical Clinics Act by the Ministry of Health (MOH). You may wish to contact and address your feedback/complaints to MOH.

Q7. Can I submit a complaint without the full name of the dentist?

A7. No. To facilitate the processing and investigation of the complaint, a complaint to the SDC must state the full name of the dentist or oral health therapist.

Q8. I do not have the name/full name of the dentist(s). Can SDC help me to obtain the name(s)?

A8. The SDC cannot obtain the name for you and/or assist you to get such information to draft your complaint. Where necessary, you should contact the clinic or visit the clinic’s website to find out the name of the dentist(s). You may search for the full name of the dentist in the SDC register via the link here.

Q9. Will the dentist be able to see my complaint?

A9. As part of a fair and impartial investigation, it is usually necessary for the dental practitioner to be called upon to answer any allegation/s made against him/her. As such, your complaint, including your identity and the details of your allegation(s), must, by law, be furnished to the dentist.

Q10. Is there a deadline for me to submit the complaint?

A10. In general, a complaint should be lodged within six years of the incident for the complaint to be investigated effectively, as the relevant evidence such as dental records and witness testimonies may become unavailable or difficult to secure with the passage of time.

Q11. Can I submit my complaint without making a Statutory Declaration?

A11. Under the Dental Registration Act, your complaint must be supported by an SD.

Q12. Can SDC help me to draft my complaint?

A12. As an independent administrator of the disciplinary process, the SDC is unable to assist in the drafting of complaints.

Q13. Can I not use the Sample Letter to submit my complaint? 

A13. The Sample Letter is a guide to draft your complaint as it contains all the relevant fields that a Complaints Committee would require to investigate your complaint. You are thus advised to use this guide.

Please also note that handwritten complaint letters are not accepted and all complaints should be typewritten in English.

Q13. Is SDC the right platform for me to obtain compensation?

A13. No, the SDC is not the platform to get compensation. Under the DRA, even if your complaint is found to be valid, the disciplinary framework only allows for the imposition of disciplinary sanctions against dental practitioners and cannot make an order of monetary compensation against the dentist. If you intend to seek monetary compensation from the dentist(s), you should seek your own independent legal advice or Small Claims Tribunal.

You can also seek the assistance of the Singapore Dental Association (SDA) which offers a mediation service for dental treatment-related matters (for compensation or refund) as an avenue for dispute resolution (to help two parties understand each other and resolve their differences) between their member dentist and the public, as well as a channel for feedback and awareness. SDA is not a disciplinary body that can investigate a dentist’s practice. Neither can the SDA order a dentist to pay a refund or compensation. You can email SDA at admin@sda.org.sg.

Q14. My dentist/clinic has charged me an amount for the medication/consultation fee/medical report. Can I ask if this amount is correct? Can they charge me this amount?

A14. The SDC does not issue guidelines on dentists’ fees and charges and is not able to comment on the appropriateness of the fees charged by the clinic. 

However, prior to consultations, clinics are required to make information on fees likely to be incurred for consultation and treatment available to the patients. Clinics are also required to display common fee charges such as consultation and procedure fee for patients to make informed choices regarding their treatments. Medical clinics and healthcare establishments are regulated under the Private Hospitals and Medical Clinics Act by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and required to provide itemized bills to patients. If you believe that you have been overcharged, you may wish to provide your feedback to MOH. 

You may also refer to MOH website here for the average fee for dental procedures in public institutions.

In addition, you may wish to seek the assistance of the Singapore Dental Association (SDA) which offers a mediation service for dental treatment-related matters between their member dentist and the public. You can email SDA at admin@sda.org.sg.

Q15. How long will the Complaints Committee take to look into my complaint?

A15. Given the serious nature of complaints, investigations by the Complaints Committee (“CC”) will typically take at least 3 months. For more complex complaints, investigations may take 9 months to more than a year. 

Q16. Will I be updated of the status of my complaint with SDC?

A16. All proceedings before the Complaints Committee (“CC”) are confidential and the CC is an independent and separate body from the SDC. The SDC Secretariat does not have the powers to release any information to you during the course of investigations. You will be informed in writing of the outcome of the CC’s deliberations as soon as a decision has been reached. 

Q17. Can I submit additional information after I have lodged a complaint with SDC?

A17. Yes, you can. However, this may prolong the time taken by the Complaints Committee (“CC”) to look into the complaint especially if additional information is submitted after the CC has already commenced its inquiry. You are encouraged to ensure that all necessary, relevant information has been included into your complaint before submitting it.

Q18. What happens to the dentist / oral health therapist and clinic after the Complaints Committee completes its investigations?

A18. After the CC completes its investigations, it may:

(a) Dismiss the complaint;
(b) Issue the dentist or oral health therapist with a letter of advice;
(c) Issue the dentist or oral health therapist with a letter of warning; or
(d) Order a formal inquiry to be held by a Disciplinary Committee or a Health Committee.

The SDC can only mete out disciplinary action against a dentist/oral health therapist and cannot provide the following outcomes that complainants may be seeking:

(a) Monetary refund to a patient or reduction in a bill;
(b) Compensation/damages for any harm caused as a result of a dentist’s misconduct or negligence;
(c) Retrieval of dental records on your behalf;
(d) An explanation from the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s) with regards to a treatment or procedure;
(e) An order that the dentist(s) perform a particular procedure or offer a certain treatment;
(f) An apology from the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s) to you and/or the patient;
(g) Revocation of the license of the dentist(s) or oral health therapist(s); and 
(h) Criminal sanctions (e.g. imprisonment) against the dentist(s) and/or oral health therapist(s). 
(i) Sanction against the clinic.

Q19. What can I do if I am not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint?

A19. If you are dissatisfied with the outcome, you may appeal to the Minister for Health, whose decision shall be final. You can write to the Minister for Health via email MOH_QSM@moh.gov.sg

Q20. What are other avenues available for me to seek redress?

A20. 

You may be able to seek your desired redress via other avenues listed below, as the SDC process may not be appropriate for all complaints involving healthcare issues.

Some of the common avenues to deal with such complaints (and when they might be appropriate) are as follows:

common avenues


Singapore Dental Council Election

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Q1. Who is eligible to vote?

A1. Every fully registered dentist whose name appears in the first division of the Register of Dentists and who is 
(i) A resident in Singapore; and
(ii) Has in force a practising certificate on the day of election of candidates as member of the Council.

Q2. What happens if I do not vote?

A2. If you are eligible to vote and fail to do so, you will not be allowed to apply for a Practising Certificate, unless you satisfy the Registrar with a good and sufficient reason for not voting at the election, or if you pay a penalty to the Council, as prescribed by the Council.

Q3. I am working overseas, am I still required to vote in the SDC elections?

A3. In accordance to s5(1) of the DRA, “Every fully registered dentist whose name appears in the first division of the Register of Dentists and who (a) is a resident of Singapore; and (b) has in force a practising certificate on the day of election of candidates as members of the Council referred to in section 3(2)f, shall vote for the election of such members at such time and in such manner as may be prescribed. 

Q4. How do I know more about the candidates; how do I vote for them?

A4. The candidates’ curriculum vitae and aspiration to represent the fraternity to serve the Council can be found on the website to aid in your voting process.

SDC Dental Practitioners Pledge Affirmation Ceremony

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Q1. What happens at the pledge ceremony?

A1. The Ceremony is an important affirmation by registered dental practitioners to pledge and undertake high professional and ethical standards of care towards every patient. 

At the ceremony, registered dental practitioners will take the pledge and sign on a pledge book sworn before the SDC President. You will receive a Pledge Certificate and Registration Certificate.

Q2. I am not able to attend the pledge ceremony for this year. Can I attend the pledge ceremony next year?

A2. You may attend the pledge ceremony the following year. Please send an email to SDC@spb.gov.sg to indicate your reasons in attending the next pledge ceremony by June of the following year.

Q3. I did not attend the pledge ceremony. Can I request to collect the Pledge Certificate at SDC or for it to be mailed to me?

A3. The Pledge Certificate will only be released to registered dentists who have taken the pledge in person at the ceremony and signed in the pledge book sworn before the SDC President.

General Enquiries

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Q1. How do I update my particulars?

A1. To update personal details, please login to the Professional Registration System (PRS):
(i) Click Login (Registered Users) at www.sdc.gov.sg;
(ii) Select Dentist/Oral Health Therapist
(iii) Click Login here with Singpass tab;
(iv) Enter Singpass ID and password.

After login, you may access Administration » Update Particulars.

Q2. I have changed my identification number and am unable to login to PRS.

A2. You may update your particulars via PRS, under “Update Particulars”

Dental Practitioners who have obtained Singapore Permanent Resident status will need to update their NRIC details with SDC in order to login to the PRS with their Singpass. 

Please email a certified true copy of your blue NRIC (front and back) to SDC@spb.gov.sg for verification. A true copy must be certified by either the Human Resource Personnel of your current local employer or a Notary Public with an official stamp of the institution/hospital, the full name of the signatory and a professional designation.

Once the certified document is received and in order, we will proceed to update in the system. After your record is updated, we will notify you and you can proceed to log in.

It is an offence for not updating any change on practice place address or residential address within 28 days thereof under s13(4) of the Dental Registration Act (CAP 76).

Q3. How do I login to SDC’s Professional Registration System?

A3. For registered dentists, OHTs or applicants with X-number:

For Singpass users e.g. NRIC/FIN holders, please log in via Singpass and 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) using SMS or Singpass Mobile.

For non-Singpass users e.g. Passport holders, please log in via User ID, password and 2FA (using Google Authenticator [GA]).

For HR personnel or CPE providers, you will need both a Singpass user account and an existing SDC account in order to access the PRS.

Please request your Corppass Admin to create a user account for you and assign the following e-Service access:
• Government Agency: Ministry of Health (MOH)
• e-Service: Professional Registration System (PRS)

Please note that since 11 April 2021, corporate users who are logging in to government digital services for businesses (G2B) are required to use Singpass. Find out more: https://go.gov.sg/corporate-login
 

Q4. I am a dental practitioner and was accorded a National Day Award (NDA) for my community service. Can I display and state the NDA on my name card?

A4. The National Day Award (NDA) is not deemed as a professional qualification per se and dental practitioner accorded such NDA by the President of Singapore need not seek Council's approval. However, the dental practitioner must display the National Day Award title against the name in accordance to PMO's guidelines.

Q5. What is “Secretariat of healthcare Professional Boards”?

A5. With effect from 1 Jan 2020, the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) is supported by the Secretariat of healthcare Professional Boards (SPB) for its secretariat and operational functions. The registration and regulation of dental practitioners including dentists, specialist dentists, oral health therapists, continue to be governed by SDC, which retains autonomy and independence over professional and statutory matters, as provided for under the Dental Registration Act (Chapter 76).