Our Approach to Fees and Payment

We know talking about money isn't always easy, especially when it comes to healthcare. So we'll keep this straightforward.

Our fees reflect the time we spend with you, the skill and experience we bring, and the quality of materials we use. We factor in long-term outcomes, because doing things right the first time counts.

We’re not a quick-turnover clinic. We take the time needed to look after you well, and we're honest about that from day one.

Are there any hidden costs?

No. We discuss and cost everything before we start. We do our best that you won't be caught off guard at the front desk. (Please don’t feel intimidated to ask if you’re ever unsure!)

You might notice our quotes are more thorough than others you've seen. That's intentional. Some clinics quote the headline figure but leave out smaller item codes to keep the initial number attractive. Then when you come to pay, the extras appear.

We'd rather be upfront. Our treatment plans include everything we can reasonably foresee. No dentist can predict everything 100% of the time, but we do our best to be faithful and true to the likely cost of providing good care, and that often means the quotes are on the higher side as a consequence.

A common example: a back molar filling (Item: 532) is quoted at $275, the treatment is performed and at reception afterwards you find out that the x-ray, examination and cuspal protection weren’t included in that quote.

Technically that’s not incorrect, the 532 back filling item code does cost $275, but we think it’s a bit disingenuous to leave out the other elements so we include them from the get go.

Do you provide written treatment plans?

Absolutely. Everything goes on paper (or screen). You'll see every component we can predict, broken down clearly with item codes and costs. 

We'd rather slightly overestimate than underprepare you. If treatment spans multiple visits, we'll show you what happens at each appointment and what it costs.

Do you accept my health fund? 

Yes. We work with all major health funds and process claims on the spot through HICAPS.

Are you a preferred provider?

We've deliberately chosen not to be.

That might sound counterintuitive, but here's why. Preferred provider agreements can place limits on how we plan and deliver care. They sometimes cap certain treatments, restrict options, or nudge decisions toward what suits the fund rather than what suits you.

We want to keep clinical decisions independent. Your treatment should be based on what's right for your situation, not what’s best for a healthfunds quarterly earnings.

We also find that preferred provider status doesn't always deliver the savings patients expect. Annual limits, waiting periods, and capped rebates often mean you’re not coming out ahead. Rather than navigating those restrictions, we focus on transparent pricing and honest conversations about what things actually cost.

We're happy to work with any health fund you have. We'll process your claim on the day. But we're not a preferred provider practice, so there will likely be some out-of-pocket expense depending on your level of cover, but we can let you know exactly what any amount may be.

You'll always get a written quote before treatment begins so you can weigh it up and decide what feels right. If cost is an issue let us know, we’re here to help patients – not buy a Porsche.
 

How much will my fund pay?

It varies. Every fund is different, and every level of cover has its own quirks. Most people get a decent rebate, but it can swing higher or lower depending on the treatment and your individual policy.

If you bring your health fund card (the physical one or the app version) to your appointment, we can give you an estimate of what your fund will likely cover. That way you'll know if there is a gap before going ahead.

Do you process claims on the spot?

Yes. We use HICAPS, so you only pay the gap on the day. You don't need to pay the full amount and chase a rebate later.

Just remember to bring your health fund card with you, and make sure it's active.

Payment options and flexibility

We accept EFTPOS, credit card, Apple Pay, and most other digital payment methods.

Payment is usually due on the day of treatment. If you're having something more involved or the cost is significant, we can split payments across appointments to make it easier to manage.

We also offer third-party finance if spreading things out over time suits you better. And if budget is tight, we're happy to help you prioritise. Not everything has to happen at once. We can sequence treatment in a way that makes sense both clinically and financially.

What happens at your first visit

We talk about fees right from the start. If we put together a treatment plan, you'll see future costs broken down by appointment, complete with item codes.

Payment is typically taken on the day, though for bigger or multi-stage treatments we can arrange staged payments to spread the load.

Whenever we plan future treatment, we explain what it will cost. You'll never be left guessing.

No pressure, just clarity

You're never obliged to go ahead with anything we suggest. Our job is to give you the information and help you make decisions that feel right for you.

If cost is weighing on your mind, please say so early. We're genuinely happy to talk it through and work out what's manageable.

Who this practice is for

Providence Dental Care best suits people who value quality care, clear communication, and treatment that lasts.
If you're looking for a West Lakes dentist who'll take the time to explain things properly and plan thoughtfully, we'd love to look after you.

In finishing

Dentistry is both healthcare and skilled technical work. It's not something we rush, and it's not something we cut corners on.

You're welcome to book online or give us a call to talk through how we can best help you.