Comprising internships as well as learning journeys, the key objective of the MOU is to allow biomedical engineering students to gain insights into the world of Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and dentofacial imaging in dentistry, and to help the students have better awareness when making career choices. CAD/CAM technology allows for precise and efficient fabrication of dental prostheses. Meanwhile, digital dentistry is shaping the way oral healthcare is delivered, offering improved surgical precision and more efficient procedures, resulting in better treatment outcomes and experience. Its myriad of innovations continue to evolve rapidly, driving innovation and advancements in dental practices in Singapore and beyond.

Role of clinical engineers

Programme participants will be exposed to engineering principles and techniques in the field of oral healthcare technology and can consider roles in clinical engineering as career paths. Clinical engineers typically collaborate with other healthcare stakeholders such as dentists, doctors, biomedical engineers, healthcare administrators and equipment manufacturers to support patient care. Their primary role is to ensure the safe, effective and efficient use of medical equipment and technology in clinical settings.

Clinical Associate Professor Goh Bee Tin, Chief Executive Officer of NDCS said: “Digital dentistry is a rapidly growing field that has gained significant traction in recent years. Advancements in technology have greatly expanded its applications and capabilities, leading to its emergence as a distinct field within dentistry. Through this MOU, we hope to train and empower a pipeline of talent that will redefine and elevate the landscape of dental care in Singapore."

Programme participants can expect to gain insights into best practices in the use of digital technologies at NDCS. The first learning journey will begin on 31 May 2024. About 20-30 biomedical engineering students will visit NDCS where the organisation’s clinical engineers will share on their work experience in the Digital Dentistry Unit and highlight the relevance of biomedical engineering to digital dentistry. Internship placement at NDCS is planned between end 2024 and early 2025.