How Dental Insurance Works and Why You Need To Use It Now

How does dental insurance work in Australia? Dental insurance is a little more complicated in Australia than in other countries, so we’ll break it down for you below so you make the most out of your cover. 

What is dental insurance in Australia?

To be specific, dental insurance doesn’t actually exist in Australia. If you are trying to get dental insurance here it will most likely be found in your insurance’s extras cover, which are services that aren’t usually covered by Medicare or private hospital insurance. Dental work isn’t covered by either of those so it comes under extras. Usually dental insurance will come in a package along with other extras like physio and optical.

It might seem a bit confusing, but the main thing to remember is that dental services like check ups, x-rays, fillings, root canals and orthodontics are all extras. Unless the dental work is surgery that requires a hospital stay, then it can be covered in extras. 

The level of extras that you need depends on the condition of your teeth. But taking care of your teeth, and regular check-ups to the dentist, are things that every Australian will need each year. 

How much does dental cover cost?

The cost for your dental cover is going to vary from the next person, it depends on what you need. A good idea to gauge the price of dental cover is to use a comparison service and talk through your needs with an expert. In general, prices will vary, based on your state and the level of cover you choose. 

How much can you claim back?

The amount of your dental costs that you can claim back depends on your policy. It’s common to see rebates of 60 or 70% while some funds will offer up to 100%, often referred to as ‘no gap’.

When does your Dental Insurance Roll over?

Dental insurance coverage DOES NOT roll over. Your health insurance inclusions and extras will most likely reset on January 1st. 

For example if you have a set amount of yearly rebates for dental appointments, this will reset on January 1st. If you haven’t used any of those rebates this year, you will not be able to take advantage of them after January 1st.

By not utilising your existing inclusions, you are missing out on the opportunity to improve your health and wasting money by not using the rebates that you’re paying for.

Not all health insurers reset inclusions on January 1st, however the vast majority do. Check with your provider to ensure you have your dates right.

What to do if your dental insurance is about to reset?

If your health insurance extras are about to reset on January 1st, then you need to organise all of your appointments within the next few weeks to ensure that you use all of your inclusions before the reset date. It’s not just good financial sense, but it’s also great for your health.

At Fix Dental Brisbane, popular treatments that can be covered by your dental insurance include our $999 crowns, check up & clean appointments and tooth fillings. 

Dentist Appointments In Brisbane

Book your next Brisbane dentist appointment online or call our friendly reception.

Fix Dental Chermside: 07 3520 4078.

Fix Dental Mount Gravatt: (07) 3520 4088

Afterpay, Zip, Humm & other interest-free payment plans available in both of our Brisbane dental clinics.