Upfront Dental Fees in Western Australia

Quick Read
In WA, some dental practices require patients to pay large fees upfront before treatment. This creates financial risks and can lead people to access their superannuation. Consumers have the right to request itemised quotes, staged payment plans, and independent advice.

What Are Upfront Dental Fees?
Upfront dental fees are large payments charged before treatment begins.
They are often required for procedures such as:

  • Dental implants
  • Orthodontics
  • Major cosmetic treatments

These payments can be several thousand dollars.

Why Is This a Problem?

  • Financial risk: If treatment is delayed, changed, or unsatisfactory, patients may struggle to recover their money.
  • Early superannuation withdrawals: Some people feel pressured to access their retirement savings to cover dental costs.
  • Barriers to care: High upfront costs prevent people from accessing essential dental treatment when they need it.

A CHOICE survey found that cost is the single biggest barrier to dental care in Australia. The Australian Dental Association has also warned that affordability remains a major issue for consumers.

What Are Your Rights?

You have the right to:

  • Request a written treatment plan and itemised quote before agreeing to treatment.
  • Ask about staged payment options instead of paying the full cost upfront.
  • Seek a second opinion to compare costs and treatment plans.
  • Make a complaint if you feel pressured or misled.

(Source: CHOICE, Australian Dental Association, Health Consumers’ Council WA consumer advocacy cases)

Using Superannuation for Dental Costs

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows early release of superannuation in some medical and dental circumstances. However:

  • Approval is not guaranteed.
  • Accessing super reduces retirement savings.
  • Consumers may be vulnerable to financial stress if encouraged to use super for large fees.

HCCWA has heard from consumers who felt pressured by dental providers to apply for early release of super to pay for treatment.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Always ask for a treatment plan in writing.
  • Compare at least two providers before committing.
  • Ask if the clinic offers payment by instalments.
  • Contact a consumer advocacy organisation like HCCWA for advice.

FAQs

  1. What are upfront dental fees and why do some clinics charge them?
    They are pre-payments requested by dental clinics before treatment begins, often to secure revenue or cover lab costs.
  2. Can I use my superannuation to pay for dental treatment in WA?
    Yes, but only under strict ATO conditions. Approval is not automatic, and it reduces your retirement savings.
  3. What consumer rights do I have when paying for dental care upfront?
    You can request an itemised quote, ask for staged payments, and seek a second opinion before paying.

If you have concerns about upfront dental fees or have been pressured into early super withdrawals for dental treatment, contact Health Consumers’ Council WA.

Phone: +610892213422

Website: www.hconc.org.au/individual-advocacy
Email: advocacy@hconc.org.au

Your voice helps us advocate for fairer, safer healthcare in WA.