Dental care is an important aspect of overall health, but unlike general medical services, it is not covered by Medicare for most Australians and expats. Understanding the costs, insurance options, and available services can help expats maintain good oral health while living in Australia. This guide explains how the dental system works, what to expect in terms of costs, and tips for accessing affordable dental care.

How Does Dental Care Work in Australia?

Dental care in Australia is primarily provided by private practitioners, with costs paid directly by patients or covered through private health insurance. Public dental services are available but are limited to certain groups, such as low-income earners and concession cardholders, making private care the most common option for expats.

Costs of Dental Care

The cost of dental care varies depending on the type of treatment, location, and practitioner. Here are some average costs for common procedures:

• Routine Check-Up and Cleaning: AUD $150–$300.
• Dental X-Rays: AUD $40–$100 per image.
• Filling: AUD $150–$300, depending on the material used.
• Tooth Extraction: AUD $150–$350.
• Root Canal: AUD $1,000–$3,000.
• Crowns: AUD $1,200–$2,500 per tooth.

Costs can vary significantly between clinics, so it’s worth comparing prices before booking an appointment.

Is Dental Care Covered by Insurance?

1. Private Health Insurance
   Most private health insurance plans include extras cover, which can subsidise dental treatments. Extras cover typically includes:
   • General dental: Routine check-ups, cleanings, and fillings.
   • Major dental: Crowns, bridges, and dentures.
   • Orthodontics: Braces and aligners (usually requires higher-tier plans).
   Insurers often have annual limits on dental benefits, so it’s important to understand your policy’s coverage.
2. Medicare
   Dental services are not covered by Medicare, except in specific cases, such as:
   • Public dental care for children under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
   • Emergency dental care in public hospitals.
3. Overseas Health Cover (OVHC)
   For expats on temporary visas, OVHC may include limited dental benefits, depending on the plan.

Finding a Dentist in Australia

1. Search Online
   Use platforms like Healthdirect (www.healthdirect.gov.au) or Google Maps to find dentists near you.
2. Read Reviews
   Check online reviews or ask for recommendations from local expat groups to find a reputable dentist.
3. Check Fees
   Call clinics to inquire about costs for specific treatments and whether they offer payment plans.

Tips for Affordable Dental Care

• Use Preventive Services: Regular check-ups and cleanings can prevent costly dental issues in the future.
• Look for Promotions: Many clinics offer new patient discounts or package deals for routine care.
• Visit University Clinics: Dental schools, such as those at the University of Sydney or Melbourne, provide lower-cost treatments performed by supervised students.
• Bundle Treatments: If you need multiple procedures, discuss a bundled price with your dentist.
• Claim Insurance Benefits: Maximise your extras cover benefits by scheduling appointments before your annual limits reset.

Public Dental Services

Public dental care is available for eligible residents through state and territory government programs. These services are often provided at a significantly reduced cost or for free but are limited to:

• Low-income earners.
• Children under the CDBS.
• Individuals with certain health conditions.

Waiting times for public dental care can be lengthy, making private care the better option for expats.

Dental Care for Children

Children in Australia may be eligible for free or subsidised dental care under the CDBS if their family receives certain government benefits. The program provides up to AUD $1,052 in benefits over two years for treatments such as check-ups, cleanings, and fillings. Check with your dentist to confirm eligibility and use of the scheme.

Emergency Dental Care

For urgent dental issues, such as severe pain or trauma, contact your local dentist or a dental hospital. Many clinics offer emergency appointments, and some provide after-hours services. Be aware that emergency treatments may incur higher costs.

Maintaining Oral Health

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles.
• Visit the dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of cavities.

Dental care in Australia requires planning, especially for expats who may not have access to public services. By understanding the costs, leveraging private health insurance, and prioritising preventive care, you can maintain good oral health while managing expenses effectively.