Most dental conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease are largely preventable. Yet in 2017-18, 72,000 Australians were hospitalised as a result of these conditions and the trip may have been prevented with earlier attention. But why do so many of us ignore the warning signs and leave dental problems untreated? For some, it’s a lack of time. But for a majority of people it’s the cost. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 40 per cent of Australians delay or avoid a trip to the dentist due to price. So, here’s what you need to consider when weighing up the cost of your next dental appointment.
Invest now for a future of healthy teeth
A visit to your dentist every six months for a comprehensive dental exam can save you future pain, time, and, not surprisingly, money. During your checkup, your dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums. Using diagnostic equipment, they’ll also check for warning signs of underlying conditions such as tooth decay, changes in gum health, or damage to previous dental work.
Regular exams can help minimise the risk of extensive and more costly treatment in the future. If you don’t keep up the habit of regular dental checkup and cleans, you might find your next dental treatment could cost you more than what you expected.
Strapped for cash?
Depending on the state of your oral health, we understand that visits to the dentist can add up over time. Nevertheless, you have options if you find yourself keeping a close eye on your bank account.
Prepare a dental budget
It’s common to budget for expenses like groceries and petrol. But putting money aside for dental treatments can give you peace of mind when it comes time for your next appointment. Whether you save a portion of your weekly salary, set aside interest, or commit to dedicating your tax refund to treatments, you might find your next visit to the dentist less stressful. Plus if you find yourself in a dental emergency in the future, having access to these savings might mean you won’t have to resort to maxing out credit cards or taking out loans with high-interest rates.
Explore your health insurance options
Private health insurance isn’t compulsory in Australia, but it can help you pay for health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental work. Depending on your policy, most health insurance providers offer the ability to pay your insurance in monthly instalments making it easier to budget for upcoming dental treatments.
Alternatively, if you have a healthcare or pensioner concession card, you might be eligible for free general and preventative care. To check if you qualify, contact Medicare.
Avoid overseas dental work
Considering overseas dental to save a buck? Think again. Australia’s sterilisation procedures are far more thorough compared to dentists abroad. It’s worth the price to feel safe, comfortable, and confident in the treatment you’re provided when facing dental work. Our dentists are also heavily monitored by the government who apply strict follow-up procedures for any treatment you may feel doesn’t meet your expectations. An assurance not offered by dentists overseas.
Find an affordable dentist
Since there are no standard fees for dental treatments in Australia, dentists’ prices vary from clinic to clinic. Factors such as the materials needed, and difficulty and time involved in procedures, can influence the price.
At Whites Dental Care, we’re proud to offer competitive pricing to ensure you get value for money. We offer payment plans and break down the costs and the number of appointments you’ll require, so you know the price up-front before committing to a treatment plan. We’re also a Bupa Members First Provider and offer great benefits on dental care to patients who are Bupa health fund members.
You can’t put a price on dentistry
How you spend your hard-earned cash is up to you. But quality dental treatments are a valuable investment for the sake of your overall health. After all, we only get one set of adult teeth in a lifetime so it’s worth what you spend to keep them clean and healthy. Looking for an affordable dentist? Contact us or book your visit online.
