ASK THE DENTIST: What happens at your child’s first Orthodontic visit?

 

Many parents believe orthodontics begins in the teenage years. In reality, a child’s first orthodontic visit  is recommended around age 7, when baby and adult teeth are both present. At this stage, orthodontists  can identify early concerns and guide healthy growth before problems become more complex. 

The first visit is typically simple and comfortable. The orthodontist will assess your child’s dental  development by: 

• Examining teeth, bite, and jaw alignment  

• Taking X-rays or digital scans (if needed) 

• Checking for early signs of crowding, spacing, or bite issues  

The goal is not always immediate treatment, but early detection and planning. 

Common issues identified early 

Even if teeth appear straight, underlying problems may exist, such as: 

• Lack of space for emergence of adult teeth 

• Protruding upper front teeth – increased risk of dental trauma  

• Overbite – increased vertical overlap between front teeth, with potential trauma to the gums • Anterior open bite – potential difficulties biting foods using the front teeth 

• Other bite anomalies such as underbite or crossbite (“reverse bite”) 

• Delayed or early loss of baby teeth  

• Jaw growth discrepancies 

After evaluation, there are usually three outcomes: no treatment, periodic monitoring, or early  intervention.  

If early intervention is needed, there are multiple appliance types available, with different options  catering to one’s lifestyle preferences and behavioural habits.  

Your orthodontist will make the recommendation on treating timing and appliance type specific to your  child’s needs 

Why early evaluation matters 

Early assessment provides the peace of mind that your child’s dental and jaw development is on track. If  early treatment is indicated, it can minimise the need for more complex treatment later and set the  foundation for a healthy, confident smile.

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Dr Soh Shean Han is an Orthodontist with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialty training in Orthodontics from University of Washington-Health Sciences School of Dentistry, USA. She is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer with National University of Singapore and Associate Staff at National University Centre for Oral Health, Singapore. Dr Soh provides orthodontic treatment across all ages, including young kids and adults. She has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and the management of jaw deformities. http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

What makes a university-ready student?

 As universities evolve and global careers become increasingly interdisciplinary, the Canadian International School (CIS) continues to innovate its academic pathways to ensure graduating students are prepared for the rigours of university and the real world.

Personalised pathways to graduation 

CIS now offers globally recognised Advanced Placement (AP) courses with the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. Together, students are able to build a Personalised pathway tailored to their strengths, interests, and future aspirations.

With college-level courses and examinations available in subjects including calculus, computer science, psychology, environmental sciences, macroeconomics, as well as languages and culture, every child will have the opportunity to progress, challenge their abilities, and explore a broad range of interdisciplinary interests.

A track record of global success

Over the years, CIS graduates have been accepted to more than 500 universities worldwide, including world-renowned institutions such as Oxford, Cornell, Cambridge, and Stanford. The success continues with the Class of 2026 with over 420 acceptances to leading universities around the world.

What graduates say about their CIS experience

“The IB programme at CIS really shaped me, especially in how I manage my time. It’s made me more productive, more intentional, and better prepared for what’s next.”
— Carson H. (Class of 2026), accepted into McGill University on full scholarship

“CIS has prepared me to take on the world with an open mind and a fresh perspective.” — Lavanya L. (Class of 2025), Industrial and Labor Relations freshman at Cornell University

“CIS equipped me with the life skills and confidence to turn my dreams into reality.” — Cindy T.  (Class of 2024), Pre-law sophomore at at Stanford University.
 

At CIS, academic excellence goes hand in hand with personal growth, global awareness, and real-world readiness. With dedicated teachers, a supportive community, and personalised academic pathways, students design their own success stories.

Register for an Open House or book a tour to learn more about CIS.

ASK THE DENTIST: Toothache Abroad: When is it Serious?

 

A toothache while travelling or living abroad can be stressful, especially if you're unsure whether it's a minor issue or a sign of a serious dental problem. While some tooth discomfort may resolve on its own, persistent or severe tooth pain should never be ignored.

A mild toothache can occur due to temporary tooth sensitivity, such as from cold drinks, sweets, or minor gum irritation. However, certain symptoms may indicate a dental infection, cavity, or other urgent dental problem that requires professional care.

Signs Your Toothache May Be Serious:

Persistent or severe pain: tooth pain lasting more than one or two days, or pain that becomes intense and throbbing, may indicate tooth decay, infection, or nerve inflammation.

Swelling around the tooth or face: swelling in the gums, jaw, or face may signal a dental abscess, a bacterial infection that requires prompt treatment.

Fever or feeling unwell: a toothache accompanied by fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes may mean the infection is spreading.

Pain when biting or chewing: this could be caused by a cracked tooth, cavity, or infection inside the tooth.

Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold: sensitivity that does not go away may indicate damage to the tooth pulp.

When to See a Dentist?

If you experience any of these symptoms while overseas, seek dental care as soon as possible. Delaying treatment may lead to more complex and costly dental procedures later.

If you're living or working abroad, it's wise to identify a trusted dental clinic near you before problems arise. Early treatment can prevent small dental issues from becoming serious and help you enjoy your time abroad with peace of mind.

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Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group® . He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKT Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. He also enjoys seeing children.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

What does IB learning look like in Kindergarten?

 

At the Canadian International School (CIS) learning is active, inquiry-driven, and often takes place beyond the walls of a classroom. The curriculum is inspired by the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, a framework that builds curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.

Learning through questions and exploration

At CIS, children learn by asking big questions, exploring hands-on, and connecting their ideas to the world around them. In one classroom, for example, a question about plants might lead to a hands-on investigation with children examining soil, observing growth in the garden, and sharing their findings with classmates. These experiences help them grow to be thinkers, communicators, and caring members of a community.

Teachers also observe play and interactions closely, using these insights to offer personalised support for each child’s growth.

Daily exploration in an outdoor classroom

Each morning, learning moves to the 2,400sqm Outdoor Discovery Centre on the doorstep of the Kindergarten classrooms. The outdoor classroom is purposefully designed with a mud kitchen for applied mathematical and scientific inquiry, cycling paths and climbing structures for gross motor development and eco-spaces for studying natural habitats.

The Kindergarten wing also includes a glass-enclosed art studio, a kindergarten library with a multilingual collection, an indoor pool, dance studio, and a 200-seat black box theatre, creating an environment where children thrive from the very beginning.

Experience IB learning in action

Join us at the Magical Garden Party on 25 April from 9.30am to 11am. Meet principals and teachers, explore the learning environment, and discover what makes CIS such a special place to grow. Register now to secure your place.