Sunday Life Magazine ‘How to save on your dental bills’
17th May 2009
Dr Fadi Yassmin of Broadway Dental gives his expert advice to Columnist Alex Brooks on ways to save on your next dental bill.
The potential for pain is a primary concern when we’re sitting in the dentist’s chair, but the sting of fees can hurt, too.
“The last thing any dentist wants to do is give someone a bill they can’t pay,” says Dental Corporation dentist Dr Fadi Yassmin. “All good dentist should do a thorough initial consult and give you a fee schedule before doing major work.”
A 2007 Australian Dental Association survey found that although the average fee for an oral exam was $50, prices varied between $36 and $87, and Yassmin says patients should ring around to get a competitive quote. “You want someone who can explain the treatments and work with you to prevent future problems,” he says.
There are also a few things you can do to combat big bills before you get to the dentist. People who have a dry mouth or are genetically prone to decay can use tooth mousses or rinses to reduce the chances of requiring fillings. “I always work with patients to prevent future problems,” says Yassmin, “so I check their brushing technique, which changes over time. Some people brush 70 per cent of their mouth well, but miss the rest.”
Alex Brooks