A Green Thumbs Up from Singapore’s National Parks Board: Canadian International School’s Community Rooftop Garden

The community rooftop garden at Canadian International School (CIS) — born out of a class project by their very own students — recently received the prestigious National Parks Community in Bloom Award. This award recognises excellence in gardening across criteria of aesthetics, horti-cultural practice, community involvement, biodiversity, and sustainability efforts in Singapore’s education institutes and organisations.

Since its inception in 2022, CIS’ community garden has been an effective learning environment for students. From adding new visual features like hanging baskets and upcycled vertical plant palettes, to routine tasks like watering, weeding and harvesting plants, projects at the community garden are aimed at encouraging CIS students to be more involved in sustainability efforts.

Participation in this initiative has also helped students prepare for an ever-changing world. One grade 7 student, Horace S., who discovered his green thumb through his primary year-end exhibition on responsible waste management on Singapore’s landfill Pulau Semakau said; “Incorporating environmental facts and practical examples [learnt through gardening] into science lessons not only enhances my learning, but also fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter.” Horace added that he gained invaluable skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.

Meanwhile, grade 11 student, Julienne B. highlighted the respect she has come to develop for nature, becoming more conscious of “the modern impact human acts have on our global footprint”. She also developed more responsibility and patience, skills she believes will help her in the future.

Sustainability is a familiar concept to CIS students. Earlier this year, four grade 11 students came in top 3 for social enterprise Green Nudge’s “Beyond the Green” challenge. They presented their proposal on reducing food waste to a judges’ panel that included Senior Minister of State for National Development, Mr. Tan Kiat How. 

Visit CIS’ award-winning community rooftop garden at their upcoming Open House on 19 January and see how students thrive in its different learning environments. 

Register your interest here.

Ask the Dentist: Why do I need to remove my wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, start to develop around the ages of 10 to 12, and start to erupt at ages of 18 to 21. Typically, the removal of a wisdom tooth is unnecessary when it erupts normally, functions properly, and doesn’t present any problems. However, as wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to erupt, there is usually insufficient space in the mouth for normal teeth growth, leading to partially erupted wisdom teeth. 

That being said, partially erupted wisdom teeth can contribute to cyst formation. As the growth process of a wisdom tooth may involve remnant cells around the crown of the tooth, these cells can proliferate by some form of stimulation and form a cyst growth. The most common cyst associated with impacted wisdom teeth is the dentigerous cyst, which develops around the crown of an unerupted or partially erupted tooth.

A partially erupted wisdom tooth may also result in:

    • tooth decay

    • pericoronitis (inflammation of the tissue around the crown of the wisdom tooth)

    • abscess (pus around the wisdom tooth due to bacterial infection)

    • gum disease

If any of the mentioned scenarios occur, you may experience pain and swelling, serving as indicators for the need of removal. It is advisable to that you visit an oral surgeon/dentist for a thorough assessment, and he/she will advise accordingly. 

While the idea of wisdom tooth extraction or surgery might be daunting for some, it is essential to understand that it is a routine and safe procedure. When performed early, it can effectively prevent more severe dental issues in the future.

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Dr Ho Kok Sen is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with Specialist Dental Group®. Dr Ho is a mentor, lecturer, and examiner to students in the Graduate Diploma in Dental Implantology course at the National University of Singapore.  Dr Ho is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Academy of Medicine Singapore. He has a special interest in dental implants, jaw surgery, bone grafting, and complex extractions. http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

The Perfect Travel Checklist

By Ellie Sakrzewski

Like most of us, I love travelling, however my skin and hair don’t. My biggest concern is dehydration. Here are some of my favourite and essential things I pack with me both in my hand luggage and my suitcase.

To Moisturise:

I slather my skin throughout my flights with moisturiser. I find it really counteracts the feeling of it being ‘parched’. I also love bringing along a facial spritz, my favourite is Luxe Botanics Camu Brightening Mist. Don’t forget your hand cream too.

To De-puff: 

Dry skin makes crow’s-feet and lines more pronounced. I get puffy as well. At a high altitude, this can be more pronounced. Mini eye patches help to add moisture while de-puffing the eyes. 

To Hydrate from the inside: 

Flying dehydrates us inside and out. We all know the benefits of drinking water on a flight. It’s also good to do the same the day before and after travel. Each morning I take my vitamin C & D super booster which is great for skin. I also bring packets to mix in my water bottle on the plane.

Crowning Glory: 

Most great hair care brands make travel size options now, so they are easy to take in your carry-on case. I do take a full-size smoothing lotion that is also a hair treatment so I can keep my hair in good condition (especially on a beach holiday) without having to bring extra.

Vitamins: 

I always travel with my vitamins. I recommend Ashwagandha and Magnesium to help combat stress and keep sleep cycles in check, Probiotics for gut health and Vitamin C for that extra boost we need when we travel.

Analog Tech's Enduring Appeal: Fading Dinosaur or Silent Saviour?

Analog technology, often considered a relic of the past in our digital age, continues to have a unique and enduring appeal, demonstrating how it can win in various contexts. While digital technology has made remarkable strides, analog technology maintains its relevance and superiority in several key aspects, reflecting its timeless charm and value.

One area where analog technology prevails is in audio reproduction. Vinyl records, for example, have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Audiophiles and music enthusiasts appreciate the warm, rich sound of analog recordings, which can be challenging to replicate in the digital realm. The tactile experience of handling vinyl, complete with its nostalgic crackles and pops, adds an element of authenticity and engagement that digital music often lacks. Analog audio equipment, such as tube amplifiers and turntables, continues to be cherished for its ability to deliver a unique sonic experience, making it clear that analog technology excels in the realm of music.

Analog technology also thrives in the world of photography. While digital cameras offer convenience and immediate results, analog cameras, such as film-based models, possess a certain artistic quality that digital cannot replicate. Film photography encourages a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to capturing images, as each frame is precious. The tangible process of developing film and creating physical prints connects photographers to their craft in a way that digital photography does not. The resurgence of interest in film photography among both amateur and professional photographers highlights how analog technology maintains its significance in the art of capturing moments.

Another domain where analog technology prevails is in human-machine interfaces. The tactile nature of analog controls, like knobs and sliders, provides a direct and intuitive means of interaction. This is particularly relevant in fields like music production, where analog synthesizers and mixing consoles are preferred by professionals for their responsiveness and fine-grained control. The tactile feedback offered by analog interfaces can enhance the user experience, offering a tangible connection to the task at hand.

In conclusion, analog technology's ability to win in various domains is a testament to its enduring appeal and functionality. While digital technology has undoubtedly revolutionized many aspects of our lives, analog technology's unique qualities, such as its warmth in audio, artistic character in photography, tactile interfaces, continue to ensure its relevance and superiority in specific contexts. Whether it's the nostalgia of vinyl records, the artistry of film photography, or the precision of mechanical watches, analog technology prevails in a way that transcends the digital age, demonstrating that the analog and digital can coexist harmoniously in our modern world.

Ask the Dentist: How do I deal with mouth ulcers while wearing braces?

While orthodontic treatment can improve your smile aesthetics and oral function, oral ulcers can occasionally occur during treatment. This is due to repeated rubbing of the wires and braces (brackets) against your soft tissues, such as the gums, lips, tongue, and inner surfaces of the cheeks.

Oral ulcers typically appear as oval or round lesions with a white or yellowish centre and red border. They can cause discomfort on touch, during eating, speaking and your daily oral routine. They often heal spontaneously within 7-14 days after the cause is addressed.

How to prevent oral ulcers from braces?

• Before leaving the orthodontist’s clinic, always check for any “poky” wires.

• Minimise the intake of hard and sticky foods that can cause breakage of your braces and/or shifting of wires.

• If you are more prone to getting ulcers, you may opt for clear aligners instead of conventional braces, as the former has less risk of abrasions from wires and broken brackets. Discuss with your orthodontist if you’re a suitable candidate for clear aligners.

• Keep hydrated, as a dry mouth increases your risk of developing oral ulcers.

How to manage oral ulcers from braces?

• Apply soft dental wax over any long wire ends or brackets that cause you discomfort. Doing so will prevent further abrasion of your soft tissues. You can request for wax from your orthodontist. 

• Contact your orthodontist to have the source of the trauma removed e.g. a loose bracket, an extended wire, etc.

• Your dentist may prescribe topical medication to reduce the inflammation and pain from the ulcer.

• Minimise the intake of hot or acidic foods and drinks that can further irritate the ulcers.

• Avoid hard or coarse foods that can traumatise the ulcers.

• You may also try home remedies such as gargling with warm salt water.

There may be other causes of ulcers too. Consult your dental specialist if the ulcers persist or worsens.

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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 a Visiting Associate Consultant at National University Centre for Oral Health, Singapore. Dr Soh has a special interest in orthodontics and dental public health.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Crowns vs Veneers

By Specialist Dental Group

Dental crowns and veneers are restoration methods to enhance one's appearance and improve function. Both procedures help to restore your desired smile in unfortunate situations such as a broken, chipped or stained tooth. However, both treatments will remove part of the natural tooth's enamel. Hence, it is essential to understand the purposes of the two procedures before deciding.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns help to:

• strengthen decayed or broken teeth

• restore the size or shape of natural teeth

• improve appearance

A crown works as a cap and covers an entire tooth. There are several crown materials, with porcelain and zirconium as the more popular ones.

What are veneers?

A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite material bonded onto the front of your existing tooth, matched to your overall tooth colour. Veneers are better for less extensive changes in shape, size or colour.

Which is a better option for you?

To determine your suitability for dental crowns or veneers, consult your dentist or dental specialist regarding your current dental condition. They will share the pros and cons of each solution for you to make an informed decision.

If you have signs of tooth decay or infection, you may require a root canal treatment before the crown. With the placement of a crown, more tooth structure needs to be trimmed away. Crowns are durable; thus, the procedure is better for broken down teeth or for teeth that needs to withstand heavier chewing forces.

On the other hand, the placement of a veneer is less invasive than crowns as the process leaves more of your original tooth intact. Veneers are typically recommended for aesthetic reasons such as unevenly spaced or stained teeth.

If you require dental treatment, schedule an appointment with your dentist or dental specialist today.

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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.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

That Big, Beachy Feeling

 By Ellie Sakrzewski

Hair this season is getting bigger, and for those of you who lived through the 80s, fear not ! We won’t be reliving spiked, over blown out fringes and hair lacquered within an inch of its life (yes I was there) but rather a beachier more textured look with a polished finish. or the past few years, the beach waved looks that we create are focused on perfect waves that are symmetrical around the face. Whilst I love this, it really isn’t like hair after a day at the beach.

So how do we get that hair ? It’s pretty simple, however it will take a little effort no matter your hair type. 

Like fashion trends that resurface, there is always a modern take on it. Think a big blow out meets the beach. 

Here are some tips to get the look":

1. Start with the right shampoo and conditioner that works for your hair. For example, if your hair is fine, use a volumising range; if your hair is thick, use a smoothing or hydrating range.

2. Comb, don’t brush your wet hair as brushing creates frizz.

3. Apply curl cream to the hair. Now here is the trick – a little goes a long way – especially in fine hair.

4. Dry the hair with a diffuser.

5. Tong away like mad . This is where you don’t have to be particular. Grab pieces of hair and tong away. Don’t try to be neat and even. This is what gives us the just off the beach look.

6. Refine and add some polish by applying serum or gloss to the ends.

7. Finish your look off with a dry shampoo, or even better scrunch in a little sea salt spray.

Extra tip - if your hair is super fine you can swap out the curl creme for a volumising spray or if it’s extra curly, you should only blow dry it a little - air drying works best.

What makes a university-ready student?

 Through their transdisciplinary approach, Canadian International School (CIS) aims to prepare their students for the rigours of university and the real world. How do they do this? With a focus on developing well-rounded individuals who possess knowledge and a diverse skill set that will see them thrive in the global marketplace.

This year’s graduating class has once again been accepted into leading universities around the world. CIS’ Class of 2023 statistics are impressive. Their average score of 33.74, 74.5% of CIS students scored above the global average of was 30.24. In September, they will start their new academic lives at universities including Imperial College, University College London, McGill, University of Hong Kong and University of Toronto. 

What graduates say CIS did to help them prepare:

“Thanks to CIS, I learnt to be open-minded to different cultures and perspectives, and become confident when socialising and working with new people.” — Claudia G. 

“CIS has enabled me to develop and enhance my interpersonal and communication skills immensely. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet so many creative minds and learn from exceptionally experienced individuals.” — Paree G.

“During my 7-years at CIS, I’ve learned to take action on topics that I am passionate about. I’ll miss the incredibly supportive teachers as well as the communal feeling at CIS.” — Hariharan N.

Gain further insights from other CIS graduates as they share their experiences and discuss how CIS provided the optimal environment to help them succeed. 

Want to know more about CIS?

RSVP for CIS’ open house to: learn more about their curriculum and teaching approach, meet the academic leadership team, and to have your questions answered. If you’ve got kindergarten aged children, you can look forward to touring their new state-of-the-art kindergarten wing. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the warm and welcoming Canadian spirit firsthand!

Does poor oral health elevate the risk of cancer?

 

You are probably aware that a lack of proper oral hygiene can lead to dental problems, such as swollen and bleeding gums, tooth loss and cavities. However, the problem continues beyond there. Overlooking good oral health practices may result in periodontal (gum) disease, increasing cancer risk.

In addition to mouth and throat cancer, evidence has shown that periodontal disease is associated with colorectal, pancreas, kidney and lung cancers. The microorganisms thriving in the mouth can cause possible changes in our immune system, leading to inflammation and infections. It is, therefore, essential to take dental hygiene seriously, as the repercussions from improper oral care may go beyond bad oral health.

Reduce the risk of cancer by cultivating good dental hygiene by:

• brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste

• flossing daily
• visiting a dentist regularly, and
• steering clear from alcohol and tobacco use.

Visit a dental specialist or dentist to seek a professional opinion if you notice any unusual signs and symptoms like:

• Persistent oral sores
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Pain when swallowing
• Rapid loss of weight
• Hoarseness
• Sore throat
• Speech problems
• Chronic bad breath
• Red or white patches in your mouth or throat

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore's Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. 
http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

CANADA TRAVEL TIME: Sunshine Meadows Hike, Banff National Park

By Karen McDowell

If you haven’t booked up your summer already, treat yourself to a magical day of wildflowers and mountain hiking at Sunshine Meadows in Banff National Park. The spectacular peak alpine flowering season in Banff is from mid-July to mid-August. 

From the lookout at Standish Viewing Deck, a carpet of wildflowers greets you in every direction with a network of trails weaving through the Meadows. The trail options may seem overwhelming at first, but the Park Ranger at Standish was helpful in recommending trails to match our time and energy. Choose anything from short and sweet to longer and more rigorous loops. You can even straddle the Great Divide - with one foot in the province of Alberta and another in British Columbia! If you are feeling up for big adventures, you can use Sunshine Meadows as the launching pad for bigger day hikes like Citadel Pass and Healy Pass (18km+) that allow you to wander for miles through alpine bliss. 

We chose the popular lake walk as we heard those had the best wildflower views. Our loop took us about 3 hours, including frequent stops for photos! It was fun to walk the same trails we’ve skied so many times in the winter.

My sister and I brought along my teenagers who enjoyed the adventure with minimal complaint. Lots of Instagram-worthy photo ops helped! We did see many other families with small children as well as older hikers with walking sticks. Check the website for accessibility if you have concerns. 

If you want to stay overnight on the mountain to enjoy the views for longer, stay at Sunshine Mountain Lodge at the base of Standish chair lift - the ONLY high-alpine hotel in beautiful Banff National Park. The luxurious rooms, fine dining, and hot tub with spectacular mountain views will ease your sore muscles and energize you for another gorgeous day of mountain walking. We have stayed here before during ski season and loved it. 

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Do you have a little-known place, activity or event in Canada you’d like to share with CAS members? Send an article of no more then 250 words and a couple of photos to info@canadians.org.sg

ASK THE DENTIST: Are sugar-free drinks safe for teeth?

As more people adopt a healthy lifestyle, healthier food and beverage options such as sugar-free drinks are becoming more popular. While consuming diet or less sugary drinks is a healthier choice and poses a lower risk of tooth decay, it does not remove the risk entirely. Like sugary drinks, many sugar-free drinks are also high in citric acid and phosphoric acid, which can wear down the teeth's protective enamel and form cavities.

In the early stages of tooth erosion, the protective layers of tooth enamel are stripped away. As it progresses, it can expose the softer dentine or pulp of the tooth. Teeth with weaker enamel may become more sensitive to temperature and susceptible to cracks and stains. That said, every individual's susceptibility to tooth decay and enamel loss varies according to their dental hygiene habits, lifestyle and diet.

If you enjoy sugar-free or sugary drinks, the best time to have them is with your meals. Continuous sipping throughout the day will cause more damage to your enamel as acid is constantly re-exposed. With that, your saliva does not have enough time to neutralize your mouth's pH. Wait about 30 minutes to an hour before brushing your teeth. Alternatively, while waiting, you may gargle your mouth with water first to wash out the remaining acid.

Other ways you can adapt to protect your teeth by:

• Using a straw to minimize contact with damaging acids and sugars

• Having dairy and other calcium-rich food to help neutralize acids

• Avoid acidic and sugary drinks before bed

• Consuming acidic and sugary beverages in moderation

• Maintaining good dental hygiene habits
  
  

Besides taking diligent care of your oral hygiene, remember to visit your dentist or dental specialist for regular checkups to ensure healthy teeth.

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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.
www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Finn M. organises ‘Wear It Purple Day’ at Canadian International School (CIS)

Finn M., joined the international movement of ‘Wear it Purple Day’ to raise awareness for the LGBTQ community at CIS.

Finn M., grade 10 student representative and leader of the Gender and Sexualities Alliance (GSA) at CIS. Finn, together with other students joined the international movement of ‘Wear it Purple Day’. Find out more about this day, as well as how Finn hopes this event will raise awareness for the LGBTQ community at CIS.

Q: What is Wear It Purple day?

Finn: Originally founded in Australia, Wear It Purple day aims to raise awareness for and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community bringing everyone together. I feel that this day is particularly important for queer youth as it provides a safe and empowering environment for us to unite, collaborate and feel proud of our identities.

Q: What is the key message behind/purpose of this day?

Finn: This is a day for all to have fun and celebrate who they are no matter their gender identity or sexuality. We decided to organise this event at CIS to raise money for Oogachaga, a foundation that provides counselling for queer youth as well as many other programmes to help Singapore’s LGBTQ community. I think counselling is an important opportunity for youth because it helps us to understand the emotions we experience and how we can cope with difficult situations.

Q: Can you tell me more about the different activities you have planned and the purpose behind each activity?

Finn: During SMART period, students will be able to participate in a range of different activities designed to bring people together to collaborate and celebrate as we join the international movement of ‘Wear it Purple Day’. These include face painting and bracelet making to show off pride, as well as a photobooth to pose with friends and come together to enjoy karaoke and dancing. Our activities are designed to bring fun and spirit to the school. We will have music playing from many queer artists as well as different games in the art pod.

Q: What do you hope Wear It Purple day will achieve for the CIS community?

Finn: I really hope this day generates awareness for the LGBTQ community so that even one person will stop and think before they make an ignorant comment. I want the queer community here to be proud of their identity and have a place where they can be themselves. So often our identities are something to be hidden or ashamed of and I want us to be ourselves and celebrate together as a community without having to hide.

Q: If given the opportunity, what other events or initiatives would you like to bring to CIS?

Finn: At the moment I lead the GSA (gender and sexualities alliance) – a student club that meets every week to talk, educate and hang out in a place that is queer friendly. We are planning many ways to have more queer inclusion at the school from painting a mural to having pride flags displayed in the classroom. I believe that there are so many things we could do at school to not just accept the queer community but embrace and be proud of us.

Learn more about CIS and see classes in action at their open houses.

Ask the Dentist: What do I do if my dental implants fail?

Dental implant treatment is generally a safe and successful procedure designed to last your lifetime with proper care. It consists of three parts, namely:

1. A titanium implant body inserted into the bone

2. An attachment called an abutment

3. A crown that is attached to the abutment and aligned with your remaining teeth

Reasons for dental implant failure

Though a failing dental implant is unusual, some conditions or complications may affect the healing process. They include gum disease, teeth grinding, and other risk factors such as smoking, medications consumed, and osteoporosis. Other medical conditions, such as cancer treatment and/or radiation, may also affect the bones’ healing ability.

Signs and symptoms

Signs of a failing implant include it being wobbly when chewing or talking, pain, swelling or infection. If there are any signs of failure, your dental specialist or dentist will take an x-ray to examine the implant and its surrounding bones.

Treatment

Your dental specialist or dentist can easily remove the failed dental implant under local anesthesia. If bone loss is present, a bone graft may be required to improve the site for replacing the implant. This process may take a few months as the area has to heal before inserting a new implant. When in recovery, your dental specialist or dentist will discuss ways to reduce risks that may have caused the implant to fail. Following the recovery instructions and care for your implants is crucial.

Always inform your dental specialist or dentist of any health or medical history changes. Maintaining good oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups is also the key to successful dental implants.

If you notice any abnormality with your dental implants, seek your dental specialist or dentist immediately for a consultation.

Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | 6734 9393

Canadian International School (CIS) Alumni Story, Class of 2018

 

2020 was an exciting year for Joshua K, he was accepted into the super competitive Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts acting programme. As one of the UK’sleading drama universities, Mountview offers 200 places annually, but receives over 3,500 applications each year.

Joshua got his first acting opportunity in CIS’s 2016 play, “The Crucible”. As his debut on-stage performance, the dress rehearsal was nerve-wracking.

Stage fright got the best of him. “I basically froze on stage when I was supposed to say my monologue. Luckily, my cast members were able to help me out and we were able to continue the story.”

This experience helped him build the confidence he needed for subsequent performances. He grew to love performing and joined every school production he could in pursuit of an acting career.

In 2020, Mountview announced live auditions in Singapore. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to COVID restrictions and Joshua had to submit a recording instead.

“It didn’t help that I had such a small bedroom to record in,” he said. “But I decided to try anyway and challenge myself to go beyond what I normally would. I’m really grateful that I did!”

At Mountview, he earned several theatre credits. These included his recent roles in Leo Butler’s “Boy”, an immersive play about the different people a teenager meets on the streets of London. Joshua played a total of 7 characters, including an agitated patient, a cyclist, and a homeless man. This was, no doubt, a real test on his acting abilities.

Now, he is looking forward to graduating with a Bachelor of Performance in Acting in the summer.

As he continues his journey towards the silver screen (or broadway), Joshua encourages other aspiring thespians to take risks, be it on stage or during rehearsals. 

Want to learn more about CIS? Join an Open House this March.

Ask the Dentist: Why should I replace my missing teeth?

A: While losing a tooth seems nothing too serious or harmful, it is actually more than just that. Our teeth give us a beautiful smile and help us chew and break down our food. Without replacing a missing tooth, it can impact your quality of life, affecting speech, appearance, self-esteem and restriction in diet to softer and more highly processed foods which are more easily chewed, affecting nutrition. Having a gap for too long may also result in higher risks of bone deterioration and shrinkage and risks misaligned teeth.

Our teeth support each other. Having a gap may cause your teeth to drift uncontrollably, resulting in crowding or the opening up of further gaps to occur over time. This can cause food packing between the teeth which increases gum disease and risk for caries. Teeth opposing a gap, will over-erupt i.e., elongate into the space disrupting the occlusal plane or line of the teeth.

With the advanced technology we have these days, there are many ways to restore a missing tooth that should last for years. Some common treatment options include dental implants, bridges and dentures. You can prevent tooth loss by practicing good oral hygiene habits and have regular dental check-ups every 6 months to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Here are some simple steps you can take at home to maintain good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth two times a day

• Floss daily

• Use antiseptic mouthwash (alcohol-free) regularly

If you notice any sensitivity or pain, see something not quite right with your teeth or are simply due for a routine check-up, schedule an appointment with your dentist or dental specialist today.

ASK THE DENTIST: Should I be worried about tongue cancer?

 

Tongue cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the cells of the tongue, most commonly the epithelial cells. The most common early symptom of tongue cancer is a persistent sore or ulcer on your tongue. Other symptoms can include red or white patch, ulcer or lump on tongue, difficulty in swallowing and bleeding with no apparent cause.

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 out of 5 patients diagnosed with tongue cancer is younger than 55 years old. With all types of cancer, researches are still ongoing and the definitive cause is still unknown.

The causes and risk factors of developing tongue cancer include:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco

• Frequent and heavy consumption of alcohol

• Human papilloma virus (HPV)

• Family or personal history of certain cancers

• Poor dental hygiene and care of your teeth and gums

To reduce the risk of tongue cancer, taking proper care and maintaining good oral hygiene is key. There are other preventive measures that you may consider to take by:

• Not smoking or chew tobacco

• Reducing alcohol consumption

• Practicing safe sex

• Having a balanced diet

• Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly

Going for regular dental check-ups every six months also acts as a preventive measure towards oral diseases. If you notice any unusual ulcer and swelling, or are experiencing persistent symptoms, visit your dentist or a dental specialist to seek for a professional opinion.

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | 6734 9393

Grade 11 Team Named Top 3 in Sustainability Challenge

How can Singapore work towards a greener future? As part of Green Nudge’s Beyond the Green challenge, four IS grade 11 students presented their sustainability proposal to a professional judges’ panel that included Senior Minister of State for National Development, Mr Tan Kiat How. Even though our students were some of the youngest participants, they were in the top 3 finalists!

Emilee L. Jareth N., Ashna K., and Sarah R., all DP geography students, were thrilled when they first heard about the challenge from our alumni Terri L., who works in the Prime Minister’s Office.

Emilee shared why. “We discuss the importance of sustainable development in class constantly, and this project allowed me to expand my understanding of the topic in a meaningful way. The seminars encouraged innovation, which helped push me outside of my comfort zone.”

After in-depth research and discussions, the team came up with the “Circular Food Web”, a multi-pronged approach to food waste disposal. This innovative plan included Smart Bins in housing estates, an incentive system that rewards households who have lesswaste, AI technology to map efficient waste collection routes, and more.

While the ideation process went smoothly, Emilee said that they met one of their biggest challenges during their presentation when they heard the judges question their plan’s feasibility.

The critical feedback encouraged us to find more realistic solutions, and to better support our ideas with data and past case studies,” she said. “It was important for us to be open-minded and flexible in our thinking". 

They were rewarded for their winning idea with vouchers, and an exciting internship opportunity with Green Nudge, where they will collaborate with like-minded peers on business development, marketing and communications for sustainability initiatives. 

Want to learn more about CIS?  Join an open house to meet the academic team and take a tour.