Brisbane-based dentist Amir Saeed told SBS that skipping regular dental check-ups because of the high cost of treatment can lead to serious oral health problems.
Speaking to SBS, Brisbane-based dentist Amir Saeed said people should have a dental check-up every six months, or at the very least once a year if more frequent visits are not possible.
Around 1.5 million children in Australia miss dental check-ups because of the high cost of treatment. The government's Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is available only to children whose parents receive the Family Tax Benefit.
According to Dr Saeed, delaying treatment can allow tooth decay to spread to the nerve, causing severe pain and eventually leading to a dental abscess. Many patients then end up in hospital, where access to dental care in Australia is extremely limited and waiting times can range from one to two years.
He explained that dental services are not covered by Medicare, meaning almost all dental clinics operate privately, contributing to higher treatment costs. However, he advised patients to compare prices across different clinics, as fees can vary significantly. Under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, eligible children can receive free dental check-ups, cleans, fillings and tooth extractions, while treatments such as crowns, bridges and orthodontics are not covered.
