Starting October 1, the Ministry of Health (MOH) will publish official fee benchmarks for 18 common dental treatments to improve transparency and help patients make informed decisions.
Under the new regulations, dental clinics participating in the Community Health Assistance Scheme (CHAS) must prominently display these benchmarks alongside their price lists.
These fee benchmarks are not strict price caps, but rather serve as a reference for patients and dental providers. For example, the benchmark fee for front tooth extraction ranges from S$70 to S$120, the benchmark fee for scaling and polishing ranges from S$35 to S$60, and the fee for root canal treatment of molars ranges from S$872 to S$1,400.
The MOH emphasizes that dentists should refer to these benchmarks when discussing treatment costs with patients, and patients can use them as a guide when weighing treatment options.
The Dental Fee Benchmarks Advisory Committee (DFBAC), appointed by the Minister of Health, developed these benchmarks after reviewing past CHAS reimbursement claims, assessing treatment complexity, and consulting with professional associations and clinics. These benchmarks reflect typical charges at private community dental clinics and will be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain current.
From September 1 next year, CHAS dental clinics will also be required to submit clinical justification for claims that exceed the benchmark charges.
These measures are part of broader initiatives announced in March this year to reduce healthcare costs, including dental services. From October 1, orange CHAS card holders will receive subsidies of up to S$45.50 for 10 basic and preventive dental treatments.
In addition, Pioneer Generation, Merdeka Generation, and Blue or Orange CHAS cardholders will enjoy higher subsidies for seven restorative treatments, such as dentures, crowns, and root canals.
By mid-2025, Singaporeans aged 60 and above will also be able to spend up to S$400 annually from their Flexi-MediSave accounts to pay for root canals and crowns at CHAS dental clinics and public healthcare facilities.