Kuala Lampur, Jan. 30 -- "Doctor, I need a new set of 'gigi palsu'(dentures). Can you make them quickly so I can wear them for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations?"

A middle-aged Chinese woman, likely in her fifties, walked into my clinic one morning two months ago, becoming my first patient of the day. She eased herself into the dental chair, flashing a hopeful smile as I prepared to examine her dentures and assess her overall oral health.

As I took a closer look, it became clear that her dentures had seen better days. Nearly a decade old, they were heavily stained with plaque, and the continuous wear had left her palate inflamed and irritated. I gently inquired about her denture care routine.

"I never take them off at night, D...