Singaporeans Seek Affordable Dental Care in Johor Bahru

SINGAPORE: According to an article published by Lok Jian Wen on the Straits Times website, a growing number of Singaporeans are traveling to Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia, to seek dental care at a fraction of the cost compared to clinics in Singapore. The article highlights the trend of “dental tourism,” where patients cross borders to access more affordable treatments.

Significant Price Differences

The cost savings are substantial, with the article citing examples such as teeth whitening procedures starting from S$900 in Singapore, while similar treatments using US-imported products in JB cost around RM1,300 (S$370). Jian Wen quotes Ms. Jo Lim, a Singaporean financial representative, who spent only half the amount quoted by Singapore dentists for two root canals and two dental crowns by seeking treatment in JB.

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While cost is a significant factor, the article emphasizes that patients also consider the quality of care and patient experience. Ms. Lim stated, “If the dentist is not skillful, I would not have proceeded and would have come back to dentists in Singapore.” Dr. Jolene Lai, principal dentist at Pink and White Dental in JB, highlighted the importance of building trust and addressing patients’ concerns, saying:

“A lot of people feel judged when they see a dentist. So when they come in, we make them feel like they can say they are scared of us, make a joke out of it, let them talk and share their concerns.”

The proximity of JB to Singapore also allows patients to plan day trips, combining dental appointments with shopping and dining. However, the article notes that medical leave considerations may impact some patients’ decisions, as Singapore employers have discretion in accepting overseas medical certificates for dental treatments requiring recovery time.

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Impact on Local Dental Practices

While JB dentists welcome Singaporean patients, the article acknowledges the importance of building a solid local patient base, as evidenced by the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic when border closures halted the flow of patients from Singapore. As Dr. Lai stated, “We’re all colleagues; we go to the same conferences. 

There might be different reasons that drive the patients over, but when patients feel they can trust dentists here in JB as well as the ones they’re used to in Singapore, then ultimately it’s their choice.”

The article provides a balanced perspective on the trend of Singaporeans seeking dental care in JB, highlighting the cost savings, quality considerations, and the impact on both Singapore and JB dental practices.