The National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) has introduced a new oral health screening tool on the SingHealth Health Buddy app, enabling users to self-assess their risk of severe gum disease and oral frailty. This initiative, launched on 15 March 2025, aligns with the Healthier SG initiative’s focus on preventive health, encouraging individuals to take charge of their oral health.
Recent studies indicate that 90% of adult Singaporeans suffer from some form of gum disease, highlighting a significant public health concern. Additionally, 68.9% of the population are unaware of the preventive benefits of regular dental check-ups. This lack of awareness underscores the need for improved public education on oral hygiene and routine dental visits.
The new tool comprises two components: the Simplified Nomogram and the Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8). These tools guide users through a series of questions to evaluate their oral health risks and recommend whether professional dental care is necessary. Users can track their dental health progress and access educational resources through the app.
CI A/Prof Lui Jeen Nee, Deputy CEO of Clinical & Regional Health at NDCS, stated, “We hope to bring dental awareness to Singaporeans directly with this tool and make it easy and convenient for everyone in the community to check for their risk of gum disease and oral frailty status.”
The tool’s launch coincides with the World Oral Health Day forum, themed “Healthy Teeth, Healthy You,” featuring talks by NDCS dentists on oral health conditions and care strategies. The Health Buddy app is available for download on both the App Store and Google Play Store.
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