Choosing the right dentist for your dental needs may be sometimes difficult and there are many considerations. Whilst your regular general dental practitioner can help you with most of your dental needs, there are times when he/she may recommend you to see a dental specialist for more complex or specialised treatment.

A general dentist or dental practitioner is qualified to practise dentistry after graduating with a basic degree such as a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS).

Dental specialists however are general dentists who have undergone an additional full-time advanced training in a specific discipline of dentistry for 2 to 4 years and are granted a certificate of specialty training such as a Masters of Dental Surgery (MDS). In Singapore, dentists who wish to practise as dental specialists are required to register with the Singapore Dental Council. 

There are currently seven recognised dental specialities in Singapore: 
  • Endodontics – endodontists or dental specialists in endodontics specialise in root canal treatment and other related problems relating to the pulp and root canals of the teeth
  • Oral maxillofacial surgery – oral and maxillofacial surgeons or dental specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery specialise in dento-alveolar and other dental surgeries e.g. wisdom teeth removal, jaw surgery, etc.
  • Orthodontics – orthodontists or dental specialists in orthodontics specialise in improving the alignment and function of teeth using braces and other orthodontic appliances.
  • Paediatric dentistry – paedodontists or dental specialists in paediatric dentistry specialise in treating children including those with special needs.
  • Periodontics – periodontists or dental specialists in periodontics specialise in treating gum disease and other problems related to the gums and structures supporting the teeth.
  • Prosthodontics – prosthodontists or dental specialists in prosthodontics specialise in crowns, bridges, and dental prosthesis.
  • Dental public health – dental specialists in dental public health assess dental health needs and help formulate polices to improve the dental health of the population.​