6 Ways to Save Money at the Dentist

We understand that dental care can be expensive, but fear not! With a bit of organisation, the expense can be easy to manage. Plus, you’ll save heaps by getting treatment when you need it, and not putting it off until your dental issues get worse!

Our first recommendation is to have regular checkups to ensure you don’t need major work. However, when the damage is done, you need a solution. Read on to find out what your options are, and how to save a bit of money next time you’re at the dentist. 

1. Ask for a quote! Know what you need to afford

First and foremost - know what you’re up against! Don’t avoid the dentist because you’re afraid of hidden dental costs. Ask for a quote, and know how much you need to pay for the treatment you need. Additionally, ask for a treatment payment plan. Set up a calendar, and work out when you can afford to get dental treatment.

Contact us at Karana Downs for a quick quote - it’s as easy sending us a Facebook message!

2. Practice Good Preventative Care

It all starts at home, in your bathroom. To save money at the dentist, the easiest way is to practice good preventive care. Ensure that you’re brushing the recommended twice a day, flossing and regularly having check-ups at your dentist to avoid expensive treatments that could have been avoided.

3. Check to See if Your Health Fund is Accepted (We accept ALL health funds, and do on the spot claims).

Most health insurance plans include dental work - check to see what your package includes. If it doesn’t include dental, maybe look into changing your plan to save money in the future.

At Karana Downs, we accept all health funds. Don’t stress about being out of pocket, all claims can be done on the spot.

4. Child Dental Health Benefit

From the 1st of January 2014, the government introduced a new initiative for families and children between the ages of 2 and 17 years of age. If eligible, you’ll receive a voucher from the government of $1000 per patient (only valid for a 2 year period).

Eligible patients must be apart of the following:

  • ABSTUDY

  • Youth Allowance

  • Parenting Payment

  • Disability Support Pension

  • Special Benefit

  • Carer Payment

  • Double Orphan Pension

  • Veteran’s Children Education Scheme, if the child is 16 or over

  • Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Education and Training Scheme, if the child is 16 or over

Note that not all treatments will be covered by this health benefit. Treatments are limited to:

  • Dental check-ups

  • Teeth cleaning

  • X-rays

  • Fillings

  • Fissure seals

  • Extractions

  • Root canal treatment

  • Partial dentures

Find out more by contacting Karana Downs Dental.

5. Start Saving Ahead of Time

Like most expensive things you want to invest in, you need to save some money ahead of time for dental work. To ensure you’re not out of pocket when it comes to your next dental treatment - plan ahead. It’s recommended that you have a checkup with your dentist every six months. Between every dental check-up, you have six months to plan and set some money aside every month for your next visit.  

6. Use a Local Dentist who cares

Having an honest conversation with your dentist is the best way to ensure you’re not paying any hidden fees. Find a local dentist who cares, and is willing to sit down and work out a treatment and payment plan for you.

At Karana Downs, our priority is you and giving you the best care that we can. For more information regarding our services and treatment plans contact Karana Downs Dental.