S’porean woman, 40, says she suffered complications after S$120 fillings in Johor, says it's not worth it

A 40-year-old Singaporean woman who visited dental clinics in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, apparently suffered complications after getting dental fillings at two clinics in September 2026.

Speaking to Shin Min Daily News, the woman, Li (transliterated), said the first incident took place on Sep. 4 at a clinic in Johor.

1st incident

She previously had her teeth cleaned at a different clinic from the same dental group, but could not get an appointment.

"I only wanted to get my teeth cleaned and polished, since there was nothing wrong with them, but the dentist recommended that I get fillings," she told Shin Min.

While she thought the process would be just filling material, she alleged that the dentist drilled her tooth with no warning.

It was an extremely painful process, Li said, adding that she ended up with a large hole in her tooth.

She spent about RM383 (about S$120) in total.

Li told Shin Min that the filled tooth became inflamed.

Li then had swelling on the side of her face and had to take painkillers.

"This is the first time in my life I have experienced such pain," she said.

"I sent the photos to customer service, and they pointed out that my dental nerve was exposed and arranged for me to see a senior dentist."

2nd incident

Shin Min reported that Li then visited another branch in Johor's Mount Austin about two weeks later and had her tooth refilled.

She said: "They suddenly removed all the fillings and refilled my teeth, but it still didn't turn out well.

"I still experience sensitivity and stinging when I rinse my mouth with water, and I also bite my gums when I close my teeth."

Despite contacting customer service multiple times, Li claimed their response was "very slow".

"I also want to tell everyone that it may not be worth it to go all the way to Johor Bahru for dental treatment just to save money," she said, adding that she regretted getting her teeth filled.

Root canal treatment

Li said that since her dental nerve had been exposed, the clinic recommended root canal treatment and supposedly agreed to pay for subsequent costs.

She was unwilling to immediately get root canal treatment on her second consult and wanted to get dental fillings first.

Since the results were not ideal, she decided to arrange for root canal treatment.

However, Li alleged that the clinic said it would not be responsible for the treatment cost since they claimed there had been no issues.

She claimed that the clinic was inconsistent in what it said and has reportedly not proposed any efficient solutions.

Investigation to be launched: Clinic

The dental group said that they always value patient feedback, and is commited to upholding a high standard of professional care, Shin Min reported.

Following Li's complaint, the clinic said it would investigate the incident.

It noted that it could not comment on specific treatment details due to patient privacy, but would continue to maintain a responsible and professional attitude in handling patients' complaints and concerns properly.