Singapore Dental Council: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re looking to become a dentist in Singapore, you’ll need to register with the Singapore Dental Council (SDC). The SDC is a self-regulatory body that oversees the dental profession in Singapore and promotes high standards of oral health. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the SDC and what you need to know to register and practice dentistry in Singapore.

The SDC was established under the Dental Registration Act 1999 and is responsible for registering and regulating dentists in Singapore. The council’s key objectives are to promote high standards of oral health and to promote the interests of the dental profession in Singapore. The SDC is also responsible for setting standards for dental education and training, as well as for maintaining a register of dentists who are qualified to practice in Singapore.
Key Takeaways
- The Singapore Dental Council is a self-regulatory body that oversees the dental profession in Singapore and promotes high standards of oral health.
- To practice dentistry in Singapore, you must register with the SDC and meet its requirements for education and training.
- The SDC maintains a register of qualified dentists in Singapore and sets standards for dental education and training.
Singapore Dental Council Overview

If you are looking for an organization that promotes high standards of oral health and interests of dental professionals in Singapore, then the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) is the right place for you. In this section, you will learn more about the roles and responsibilities of SDC, as well as its membership and leadership.
Roles and Responsibilities
The SDC is the self-regulatory body for dental professionals in Singapore, established under the Dental Registration Act 1999. Its primary objective is to ensure that dental professionals provide competent and ethical oral healthcare services to the public.
To achieve this objective, the SDC has set standards of competence and conduct for dental professionals, which they must adhere to. The SDC also maintains a register of dental professionals who have met these standards and are eligible to practice in Singapore.
In addition, the SDC is responsible for investigating complaints against dental professionals and taking disciplinary action when necessary. It also provides information and content on oral healthcare to the public, as well as services such as registration and renewal of dental licenses.
Membership and Leadership
The SDC is led by a President, who is appointed by the Minister of Health. The President is responsible for overseeing the SDC’s operations and ensuring that it fulfils its objectives.
The SDC has a membership of dental professionals who are elected or appointed to serve on its various committees. These committees include the Professional Conduct Committee, which investigates complaints against dental professionals, and the Dental Specialist Accreditation Board, which accredits dental specialists in Singapore.
As a dental professional in Singapore, it is important to be aware of the SDC’s roles and responsibilities, as well as its membership and leadership. By adhering to the SDC’s standards of competence and conduct, you can ensure that you provide high-quality oral healthcare services to the public.
Registration and Practice

Registration Process
To become a dentist in Singapore, you must register with the Singapore Dental Council (SDC). The registration process is divided into three categories: Full Registration, Conditional Registration, and Temporary Registration.
Full Registration allows you to practice independently anywhere in Singapore. To be eligible for Full Registration, you must hold a basic dental degree from Singapore or any other recognized qualifications by the Council. You must also satisfy the Council that you have the necessary knowledge, skills, and clinical knowledge to practice dentistry.
Conditional Registration is for foreign-trained dental graduates who need to pass a qualifying examination to be eligible for Conditional Registration and subsequently apply for Full Registration.
Temporary Registration is for dental practitioners who wish to work in Singapore for a short period. The registration is valid for a maximum of six months and is non-renewable.
Professional Development
The SDC requires all registered dentists to undertake continuous professional development (CPD) to maintain their knowledge and skills. The CPD program is designed to ensure that dentists are up-to-date with the latest developments in dentistry and can provide high-quality dental care to their patients.
International Standards
The SDC is committed to maintaining international standards of dental practice. The Council regularly reviews the dental curriculum of universities to ensure that it meets the required standards. The SDC also recognizes overseas clinical practices and provides guidance to dentists who wish to practice overseas.
In conclusion, the SDC is responsible for regulating the dental profession in Singapore. The Council ensures that all dentists meet the required standards of knowledge, skills, and clinical practice to provide high-quality dental care to their patients.
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for registering with the Singapore Dental Council?
To register with the Singapore Dental Council, you must have a recognized dental degree and meet the council’s registration requirements. These requirements include passing the qualifying examination and fulfilling the council’s continuing professional development requirements.
How can I log in to access my Singapore Dental Council account?
You can log in to your Singapore Dental Council account by visiting the council’s website and clicking on the “Login” button. You will then be prompted to enter your username and password.
How can I contact the Singapore Dental Council for enquiries?
You can contact the Singapore Dental Council by phone, email, or in person. The council’s contact details can be found on their website.
Who are the current members of the Singapore Dental Council?
The current members of the Singapore Dental Council can be found on the council’s website. The council is made up of members from the dental profession, the Ministry of Health, and the public.
What is the process for a foreign-trained dentist to qualify for practice in Singapore?
Foreign-trained dentists can qualify for practice in Singapore by obtaining a dental degree recognized by the Singapore Dental Council, passing the council’s qualifying examination, and fulfilling the council’s registration requirements.
What steps should I take to file a complaint against a dentist in Singapore?
If you have a complaint against a dentist in Singapore, you should first try to resolve the issue with the dentist directly. If this is not possible, you can file a complaint with the Singapore Dental Council. The council’s website provides information on how to file a complaint and what information to include.

