The Singapore Health Services Group’s mobile app, “Health Buddy,” now offers the public the ability to self-assess their risk of developing oral health issues, such as severe gum disease.
In a statement released on Monday (March 10), the Singapore National Dental Centre, a part of the Singapore Health Group, announced that users can access the self-service oral examination by simply selecting the “Dental Care” function on the app’s main interface.
The self-assessment is available in two options: Simplified Nomogram and Oral Frailty Index-8. By answering six to eight questions prompted by the app, users can gain an understanding of their oral health. The National Dental Centre advises users to make a dental appointment as soon as possible if their results indicate a “high risk” of oral issues.
According to recent studies, around 90% of Singaporean adults experience various types of gum disease, from mild gingivitis to more serious periodontitis. If left untreated, these conditions can result in tooth loss and even lead to other serious health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The research also revealed that nearly 70% of respondents have limited awareness about the importance of oral health prevention and do not understand the need for regular dental check-ups. Additionally, approximately 12.5% of individuals aged 65 and older have lost all of their teeth.
To promote better oral health among the public, the National Dental Centre plans to officially launch the oral self-examination feature of the “Health Buddy” app at the World Oral Health Day Forum on March 15.
