I WRITE in response to opinions expressed on dental implants in letters to The Star on Feb 13 and Feb 23.

I wish to inform the concerned persons that the practice of dental implant placement is a recognised procedure carried out by dental practitioners (dental surgeons) who have undergone the required training.

It is worthy to note that dental implants are fabricated abroad and imported and thus remain costly and the procedural cost of implants may vary from practitioner to practitioner in the private sector.

Government dental specialist clinics provide implants as well, but case selection often favours functional purposes.

Should there be any dissatisfaction over treatment provided by dental practitioners, complaints can be channelled to the Malaysian Dental Council, which regulates the profession.

In addition, the Malaysian Dental Association and its affiliate bodies are dental bodies which are also able to address issues related to dentistry.

DATIN Dr NORAIN ABU TALIB,

Senior Director of Oral Health,

Ministry of Health Malaysia

and Registrar, Malaysian Dental Council.

Source: The Star – March 3, 2008