• A compilation of 30 nutritious recipes to support patients recovering from dental treatment and who may have chewing and eating difficulties.
• Proceeds go to NDCS Tooth Fairy Fund to help needy patients and support oral health research and education efforts.

Singapore, 14 July 2021 – The recovery process after dental treatment is often uncomfortable, painful, and inevitably unenjoyable for patients who have fewer meal options to choose from. To support these patients in their recovery journey, the National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) has launched its first recipe book, Meals to Smile About – a compilation of 30 delectable and nutritious recipes, curated for those who face difficulty chewing and eating after their dental treatment.

"It was a challenge finding a variety of suitable and tasty food after I had treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer. As you may know, porridge gets boring very quickly if you eat it every day," said Mr Lek Chai Sing, 79, an NDCS patient and one of the recipe contributors. "I am happy to be a part of this meaningful initiative, and hope that other patients will find these recipes delicious and helpful." 

Spearheaded by the NDCS Office of Patient Experience, the book comprises contributions from staff, patients, caregivers, and friends of NDCS, and renowned chefs like Eric Teo and Malcolm Lee. From Chawanmushi to Palak Paneer, Pong Tauhu and Lasagne, the recipes span a variety of cuisines covering mains, sides and desserts. The book was also developed in consultation with dietitians, to ensure that the recipes meet dietary recommendations. Within the pages, NDCS dentists have also included best practices for patients on braces, dentures or those who have had tooth extractions, on how to look after their oral health.

The book is also an opportunity to contribute to the NDCS Tooth Fairy Fund – the philanthropic arm of NDCS. All proceeds from the book will go to the Fund, which aims to help needy patients gain access to oral healthcare, and support oral health research and education efforts to advance the delivery of dentistry for better care.

"We were inspired to create Meals to Smile About because we believe that caring for our patients goes beyond the dental chair. It is about their overall wellbeing, and that includes being able to enjoy wholesome, hearty meals with their loved ones. For many, food also has the ability to provide comfort. As such, through these recipes, we hope to bring a smile to our patients during their recovery period," said Clinical Associate Professor Poon Choy Yoke, Director, National Dental Centre Singapore.

For more information on Meals to Smile About and how to receive a copy, please visit https://www.ndcs.com.sg/giving/Pages/Meals-to-Smile-About.aspx.