Dental Implant Surgery
Teeth serve an important role in our daily lives as it affects our speech, our ability to eat well and the way we look. Its loss through disease or trauma sets in motion the loss of underlying bony support resulting in tooth loss. This in turn affects support for our lips and cheek leading to a more aged appearance. Failure to replace missing teeth often leads to the opposing teeth overgrowing and the adjacent teeth tilting resulting in areas of food trapping which in turn may result in gum disease tooth decay.
What are the different ways of replacing missing teeth
Traditionally, missing teeth were replaced by either removable plastic or metal based dentures, or fixed bridges made of either metal alone, or porcelain fused to a metal base. Developments in dental material science have focused on developing more aesthetic materials with adequate strength, such as all-porcelain and zirconia bridges. While all of these are still very much in use today, implant based methods of replacing missing teeth are increasingly preferred as it provides greater biting ability and a more comfortable and natural feel.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are sterile titanium screws which are inserted into the jawbone as artificial roots to support and retain replacement teeth. It comprises 3 parts. The first part or “fixture” is placed within the jaw bone to replace the roots of missing teeth. The second part or “abutment” emerges through the gums and is used to carry the 3rd part, which may be a single crown or a bridge depending on how many teeth are missing. If we have lost all our teeth, we can use 4 to 8 implants in each jaw which when connected can support dentures or even a fixed bridge
How do Implants compare with alternative options?
When compared with removable dentures, they provide stronger support, firmer retention and are more stable. The implant supported and retained replacement teeth occupy less space and are more comfortable. They are also able to generate much stronger biting force. When compared with fixed bridges, they can be used even when more teeth are missing as they can provide stronger support over a longer span. They are also preferred when the teeth adjacent to the gap are weak or too small to provide sufficient support. Additionally, they provide an alternative to trimming healthy teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implant
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Are permanent replacement for missing teeth
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Has predictable and good long-term success rate
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Prevents supporting bone from shrinking after tooth loss
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Does not decay as it is made from Titanium
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Able to generate stronger bite forces for better chewing and hence better digestion and nutrition.
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Restores appearance thus creating more confidence and self-esteem Able to provide better support for lips and cheeks for a more youthful look
Types of Dental Implant
Dental Implants have been widely used for more than 40 years since the original scientific research was published. While many different implant systems are now available and are generally of high quality, our clinic prefers using implants from Nobelbiocare, Sweden and Straumann, Switzerland due to the extensive research and long track record. These implants come in different sizes and lengths and are generally at least 3.5 mm in diameter and 8 mm in length which differentiates them from “mini-implants” which should be used only as temporary supports or in very specific cases.
Are you suitable for Implants
Implants can be placed in most patients from age 18-80, even if you have lost your teeth for many years as we are able to regenerate bone in order to place implants as a foundation for your denture or bridge. Patients with health conditions should inform the dentist so that additional precautions can be taken, if required. Conditions which require attention include patients with significant heart disease, unstable high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes and patients on therapy for cancer. Surgery can still be performed after clearance from your medical specialist.
What is the surgical procedure like?
After giving some local anaesthetic, a small incision is made through the gums and a point of insertion decided. Drills of a predetermined length and with increasing diameters are then used to gently prepare the site to receive the implant. The implant is then rotated to the desired depth. The top of the implant channel is then covered with a temporary cap and the gums stitched either over or across after cleaning the surgical site and allowed to heal undisturbed for 3-4 months. A higher temporary cap called a healing abutment is often placed to avoid a second surgery to uncover the implant.
Is Implant Surgery Painful?
No, implant surgery is generally a minimally invasive procedure and in most instances the pain is minimal. If more major treatment is required, some post-surgical pain may be present. If you are fearful, we can arrange for you to have a complete pain-free experience either by performing the procedure under intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia within an operating theatre. The mix of drugs given will help you relax, sleep and eliminate pain. You will also usually be given a painkiller to take before the procedure so that you will be comfortable after the surgery.
How long does it take to recover from the Surgery?
After the operation, you may feel uncomfortable but this can be eliminated by taking the prescribed painkillers regularly. Some swelling and bruising is to be expected for a few days after the surgery. You can resume normal activity within a day but should avoid strenuous exercise and swimming. A normal or soft diet is advised and can be commenced after the numbness from the local anaesthesia wears off, usually around 2-3 hours after the procedure to avoid biting your lip or tongue inadvertently.
Same Day Teeth Replacement
Rationale for immediate tooth replacement
Losing a tooth, especially one of our front teeth can be very distressing for most patients. In addition to the effect on appearance and confidence, it affects our speech and on the long-term, the gums and the supporting jawbone will also shrink. A common request from our patients is to get a replacement for their missing tooth immediately, hence the advent of protocols for "same day teeth replacement". This could be done by partially loading the implant on the day of the surgery, or more commonly by using the adjacent teeth as temporary supports.
How long does it take for healing after tooth extraction and implant surgery
Teeth extraction and implant surgery are fairly routine and painless procedures and you will feel back to normal in just a few days. However, it takes around three months after tooth extraction for the bone to reform before placing an implant. In addition, it takes a further three months for the bone to grow around the implant in order to anchor it firmly in the jaw. During this waiting period, removable dentures, or temporary bridges made of plastic are used to prevent direct forces on the implant allowing the implant to heal.
Can this waiting period be shortened
Yes, it is possible to reduce this waiting period as implants can often be placed immediately into extraction sites for patients with missing front teeth. This reduces the waiting times significantly. In general, we are able to place implants to replace our front teeth on the day of extraction as there is usually adequate bone around and beyond the tooth socket to stabilise the implant. For back teeth, it is not always possible as there is usually insufficient bone after removing the tooth. Very often a bone graft will also be needed and is therefore a more technique sensitive procedure.
Immediately Loaded Implants
If the implant lies firmly within bone, it is possible to even allow partial loading immediately after the surgery. In combination, with the latest computer assisted techniques, it is possible to deliver aesthetic looking temporary teeth in selected cases within 3 hours after the surgery. The patients are however advised to avoid chewing on the implant, especially in the initial weeks after the surgery when the original bone anchoring the implant would have been resorbed with the new bone yet to form.
Is immediate loading of implants a new technique
No, the first controlled study of successful immediate loaded implants was published in 1997 after a successful 10 year study. Our lead clinician has been placing immediately loaded implants since early 1999. The success rate of immediate implants are comparable to that of implants placed using conventional protocols but is more technique sensitive as it requires the dentist to determine if the initial stability of the implant is sufficient for immediate loading. Done selectively, it is a useful option for patients with no other remaining teeth to anchor a temporary denture or bridge.
Join us
01. General Practitioner (GP Doctor)
Must be fully registered with SMC
Duties & Responsibilities
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Provide Acute and Chronic care consultations in the GP setting
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Health screenings and reviews
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Pre-employment checkups and other statutory examinations
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Perform diagnosis and prescribing of medication accordingly
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Provide referral to patients if specialist check-ups are required
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To ensure up to date clinical knowledge
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Doctor who can commit full-time, or part-time on a long term basis will be an added advantage
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Salary commensurates with experience.
Salary Range: TBC
02. Dentist
Our Dentistry Division focuses on implant and cosmetic dentistry, including smile makeover using 3D computer assisted technology.
We are also equipped with X-Ray and imaging modalities and a day surgery facility. Newly joined dentist will be working under direct supervision of Senior Dentists
Requirements
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Current license to practice dentistry
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Valid malpractice liability insurance
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Minimum 3 years’ clinical experience at a dental practice
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Dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of care to patients
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Good communication skills
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Friendly and professional demeanour
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Training with renowned dental surgeon are provided
Full-time Job
Monday to Friday and Weekend availability
Salary Range: TBC
03. Radiographer (MRI/CT)
The MRI Radiographer is responsible to perform basic and advanced MRI scans independently
Duties & Responsibilities
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Produce optimal diagnostic images with due regard to radiation safety, patient care, modesty, safety and clinical needs.
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Ensure the correct patient and area of interest is being imaged accordingly.
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Assist the Radiologist, clinicians and surgeons in fluoroscopic examination, angiography room and operation room etc.
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Ensure Equipment and supplies are prepared prior to procedure.
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Adhere to infection control guidelines
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Participate in shift, on call and rotation duties at Precious Medical Centre or satellite radiology clinics according to roster.
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Actively participate and contribute in quality improvement projects and quality assurance programmes
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Support the team (doctors, nurses and support staff) in demonstrating compassion through effective relationships based on empathy, respect and dignity.
Education & Experience
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Must be a registered practitioner with Allied Health Professional Council, Singapore
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At least 3 years of CT/MRI experience in Singapore hospitals and/or medical centre
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Demonstrate patient care; team-player and deliver quality CT/ PET CT/MRI scans
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Staff will have the chance to learn different advance modalities in Radiography to enhance their professional skills
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Candidate with the experience of Ultrasound, Mammography, Angiography, MRI and/or CT will be an advantage
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Candidate is required to perform shift work and on-call duties, and any other ad-hoc responsibilities as assigned by the Manager
Salary Range: TBC
04. Sonographer (Ultrasound)
The sonographer is primarily responsible for day to day performance of Ultrasound examinations according to department standard operating guidelines.
Duties & Responsibilities
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Provide sonography services to patients as requested by referring physicians or as allowed by statutory regulations and according to acceptable and standards
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Familiarise oneself with the usage and correct handling of the imaging equipment to avoid incorrect usage.
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To conduct necessary quality assurance tests before equipment is used on patients.
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To participate in quality improvement projects that will ensure continuous improvement in quality of work.
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Work closely with nurses and support staff to ensure patient care is met.
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Provide quality customer service to patients.
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Ensure compliance with the radiology safety policy.
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Work closely with Picture Archiving and Communications systems (PACS) administrators to ensure studies are sent and stored in the PACS correctly without errors.
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Other assignments as when required.
Education & Experience
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Relevant qualification in Sonography/ Radiography
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At least 3 years' experience in performing obstetric ultrasound scan.
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To be able to communicate in English. Other languages will be added advantage e.g. Mandarin and Malay or Bahasa.
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Candidate with the experience of Ultrasound, Mammography, Angiography, MRI and/or CT will be an advantage
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Candidate is required to perform shift work and on-call duties, and any other ad-hoc responsibilities as assigned by the Manager
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Good interpersonal skills and caring nature
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Must have Fetal Medicine Foundation certification for first trimester Down's Syndrome screening
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Demonstrated proficiency with computer skills and software programs used for documentation activities and report generation.
Salary Range: TBC
05. Staff Nurse
Staff Nurse should have clinical expertise in a specialised field of nursing, with the core responsibility of providing patient care through clinical leadership in nursing practice, job duties include preparing charts and communicating with the Doctor, sometimes before a patient arrives.
Duties & Responsibilities
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Participate in action plans for the unit to enhance employee engagement and maximise employee performance.
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Act as a liaison between patients and doctors to ensure that all essential medical communications are clear and accurately converted
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Maintain current trends in nursing practice and management through formal education and self-development.
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Ensure customer satisfaction, resolve and follow through quality/service class.
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Demonstrate competency in nursing core & special skills.
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Supervise junior nursing personnel in providing quality nursing care.
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Perform duties as assigned by the Nurse Manager
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Administrative support to ensure smooths and efficiency of daily clinic operation
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Fosters sound professional collegial relationship with nursing team, patients and public
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Role model the desired team and leadership behaviours
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Other ad-hoc task assigned by the Doctor and the Specialist Centre Manager
Education & Experience
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Candidates must possess at least a Diploma, Advanced/Higher/Graduate Diploma, Bachelor's Degree, Post Graduate Diploma or Professional Degree in Nursing or equivalent, preferably in the field of medical oncology.
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Registered with the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB).
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Highly motivated with the ability to work in a team and a fast-paced environment.
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Excellent communication, interpersonal and people management skills.
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Candidate is required to perform shift work and on-call duties, and any other ad-hoc responsibilities as assigned by the Manage
Salary Range: TBC $3500 - 6000 per month (Negotiable)
06. Aesthetic Consultant
Duties & Responsibilities
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To be closely involved in clinic day-to-day operation
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Working with doctors to develop policies, protocols and procedures
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Receiving the visit of customers by appointment and providing consultation to the customers online or over the phone from different channels, e.g. word-of-mouth marketing, social media like Facebook, Instagram, Xiao Hong Shu and Wechat.
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To provide professional skin/hair/body analysis and recommend suitable range of aesthetic treatments and products to customers,
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Engaging and establishing good after-sales relationships with customers.
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Handle VIP with prestigious background. Ensure high clinical quality standards and service standards.
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Manage facilities, equipment and supplies in relation to cost containment.
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Any other administrative task when required
Education & Experience
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Experience in Aesthetics / Beauty or related industries
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Service-oriented with self-motivation for achieving sales targets
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Team player with excellent interpersonal communication skills
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Able to converse in English and Mandarin in order to communicate with Mandarin-speaking patients
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At least 1-3 years working experience
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Candidates must possess CIDESCO/CIBTAC/ITEC /WSQ qualifications or equivalent
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Organised and efficient, good interpersonal skills, well groomed, customer-oriented and performance driven
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Willing to work half day on Saturdays
Salary Range: $3000 - 5000 per month + commission (Negotiable)
07. Dental Nurse
Dental nursing role is to assist the dentist in all dental procedures, providing the best possible patient care while maintaining, sterilising and cross infection control of all dental equipment in the clinic. The dental nurse will also need to require receptionist duties to register patients, book appointments, billing
Duties & Responsibilities
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Chairside assistance to dentist during dental treatments and procedures
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Observe and Maintain infection control at all times
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Clearing trays and sterilisation of instruments
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Maintain dental equipment
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Perform general housekeeping to ensure cleanliness of clinic
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Ensure room is well stock with required dental instruments and material
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Minor dental laboratory work
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Receptionist duties such as making and booking of appointment, answering patient’s enquiries over phone or counter
Education & Experience
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At least 1-2 years of hands-on dental assisting experience is an advantage
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Good communication and coordination skills
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Flexible and willing to work on rotating shift
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Team player and meticulous
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Well organised and able to multitask Basic computer skills
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Training is provided
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Organised and efficient, good interpersonal skills, well groomed, customer-oriented and performance driven
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Willing to work half day on Saturdays
Salary Range: TBC (Negotiable)
Join our growing team. We'd love to have more talented people on board. Kindly send us your updated CV to hr@preciousmed.com or click the "APPLY BUTTON"