Free dental care extended for struggling Australians
As health costs continue to rise, eligible individuals can benefit from free dental care, including check-ups, cleans, fillings, and extractions.
Those eligible are placed on the public clinic waiting list and may sometimes receive a voucher for a private clinic to access treatment sooner and help ease pressure on the public system.
'The Australian Government acknowledges the importance of accessing affordable dental services and the role good oral health plays in supporting general health and wellbeing,' a Department of Health, Disability and Ageing spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au.
The number of vouchers provided varies depending on demand, location, type of treatment required, and service capacity.
When an individual receives a voucher, they are also provided with a list of private clinics that accept it.
The vouchers fall under the Federation Funding Agreement on Public Dental Services for Adults.
There were concerns about whether the vouchers would continue following the agreement's expiration on June 30, but those concerns were quashed in the 2025–26 budget announcement.
'The Government will provide $107.8 million in 2025–26 to state and territory governments to support public dental services for adults,' the DHDA spokesperson said.
'This funding will be provided through a one-year extension of the Federation Funding Agreement on Public Dental Services for Adults.'
Those eligible include Queensland adults holding current concession or health cards, as well as children eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule or listed on a valid Centrelink concession card.
'The Child Dental Benefits Schedule has provided $3.1 billion in benefits and delivered over 51 million services to 3.5 million children since it commenced in January 2014,' the DHDA spokesperson said.
'Queensland Health is committed to improving the oral health of Queenslanders and increasing access to public oral health services,' the state's Chief Dental Officer, Dr Ben Stute, told 7NEWS.com.au.
The vouchers are issued by Queensland Health's Hospital and Health Services (HHS) and are designed to alleviate strain on public dental clinics.
In 2022–23, those on the public dental list waited an average of 578 days to be seen in Queensland and 387 days in New South Wales, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).
While the dental services are free, patients are responsible for their own transport to and from appointments.
Appointments are provided at hospitals, community outreach clinics, public clinics, and schools across Queensland. When a voucher is obtained, patients can also access care at a private clinic.
Many dentists recommend a check-up twice a year, as it provides a range of benefits.
'It not only prevents dental diseases but contributes to improved nutrition, communication, and self-esteem, which are crucial for leading a healthy and fulfilling life,' Stute said.
'In contrast, poor oral health is linked to chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart and lung disease, and may lead to people needing care in hospital.'
The most common oral diseases affecting Australians include tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum disease, according to AIHW.
Approximately one in three adults has at least one tooth affected by untreated decay, and one in nine children aged 5 to 14 has never seen a dentist.
The best way to prevent dental issues is through regular check-ups, brushing twice a day, using products like floss, and limiting sugar and alcohol intake.
For those without any assistance, a standard dental check-up costs, on average, $219, according to the Australian Dental Association.
However, the Government is working with states and territories to develop a new National Oral Health Plan.
'This will include goals to improve the oral health status of Australians and reduce inequalities in oral health status across the Australian population,' the DHDA spokesperson said.
A National Dental Reform Oversight Group has been established, comprised of senior government policy officials 'tasked with developing options for sustainable and longer-term dental funding arrangements that better meet community needs'.
In 2025–26, access to private health insurance will also be made more affordable, with a $7.8 billion Government contribution to the rebate.
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