Dental insurance can feel a bit like using a gift card - sure, it pays for some of the cost, but only certain things are covered, and you're often left paying the rest yourself.
At Creswick Dental Centre, we often hear questions like:
“Will my insurance cover this?”
“How much will I be out of pocket?”
“Is it worth having dental cover at all?”
Let’s unpack how dental insurance really works in Australia - so you can make informed decisions without surprises.
The “gift card with fine print” problem
In Australia, dental insurance usually isn’t “insurance” in the traditional sense. Unlike medical insurance - which kicks in once you’ve met your deductible - dental insurance works in reverse: it pays a small amount up front, and then leaves you to pay the rest.
Most extras policies:
- Cover check-ups and basic cleans
- Offer partial cover (50–60%) for minor treatments like fillings
- Provide little to no support for major work (crowns, bridges, implants, orthodontics)
- Have low annual limits (typically $750–$1,500)
- Impose waiting periods (6–12 months) for major procedures
Example: If a crown costs $1,600 and your annual limit is $1,000 with 60% coverage, you’ll get $600 back - and pay $1,000 out of pocket.
It’s not “insurance” in the usual sense
True insurance is meant to cover high, unexpected costs - think unexpected surgery, hospital stays, or major trauma. Dental insurance, on the other hand, doesn’t kick in to protect you from a financial disaster. It simply contributes a capped amount, and you’re still responsible for the rest.
Think of it like this:
Health insurance is like protection from a car crash that you’re not anticipating.
Dental insurance is more like a discount coupon at your local 7-Eleven.
It might help a bit, but it won’t get you far when something serious happens.
When the numbers don’t add up
Let’s say you’re paying $50/month for extras cover - that’s $600/year. If you only use it for:
- Two check-ups and cleans ($180 value)
- One filling at 60% of $200 ($120 back)
You’ve paid $600 for $300 worth of benefits. That’s a loss - unless you’re consistently using your cover and your insurer gives decent rebates.
The hidden complexities of dental insurance
What makes it harder:
- Prices vary significantly between practices.
- Some clinics promote low-cost exams or “$99 cleans” but then charge for follow-up treatments higher than normal.
- Some offer fast and minimal care in a high-turnover model.
This makes it difficult to compare value across practices. At some point, you need to stop price-shopping and find someone you trust.
How we help at Creswick Dental Centre
We know insurance is confusing. That’s why we aim to make it easier from the moment you walk in:
- We accept all major health funds
- We provide quotes before treatment - no surprise bills
- We contact your fund to confirm what’s covered
- We explain your benefits in plain language
- We help you weigh up your options (with or without insurance)
So… is dental insurance worth it?
It depends. If your plan covers what you need and you're actually using your benefits each year - then yes, it can save you money. Especially for families and patients who need regular care.
But if you're paying premiums and barely claiming anything back, you might be better off paying directly and using options like:
- Payment plans
- Superannuation access for major work (in approved cases)
- State-based public dental (if eligible)
- Preventive care to avoid costly treatment later
Final word
Find a dentist who’s transparent about pricing and focused on your long-term oral health. Whether or not you have insurance, you should feel confident, informed, and respected.
Have questions about your cover? Want to know your options before starting treatment?
Call Creswick Dental Centre or book online today - we’ll explain your choices clearly, no confusion, and no guesswork.