Cost is one of the biggest reasons people put off dental treatment, and putting it off usually makes it worse and more expensive. Payment plans exist to break that cycle by spreading the cost into manageable amounts. Here is how they actually work.
This article compares the finance options generally available in Australia. For what Bilby Dental offers and how to apply, see our full guide to dental payment plans.
A payment plan lets you have the treatment you need now and pay it off over time rather than all at once. Most plans split the total into weekly or fortnightly instalments. Some are run by third-party providers such as buy-now-pay-later services, and others are arranged directly with the practice.
It depends on the plan. Buy-now-pay-later options are usually interest-free if you keep up with the scheduled repayments, but they can charge late fees if a payment is missed. Longer-term finance for larger treatments may charge interest. The key is to read what happens if a payment is late before you sign up, and to choose the shortest plan you can comfortably afford.
Being on a pension or receiving Centrelink payments does not automatically rule you out, though approval for third-party finance depends on the provider. It is also worth checking whether you qualify for public dental support, and families should look at the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, which covers up to $1,158 of dental care for eligible children at no cost.
If you have extras cover, your rebate reduces the amount you need to finance, so use it first. For large treatments such as implants, some people apply to access their superannuation early on compassionate grounds, though that is a decision to make carefully and with proper advice.
We will give you a written treatment plan and quote first so you know exactly what you are paying for, then walk you through the payment options that fit your budget. There is no pressure to commit on the spot.
Many buy-now-pay-later dental plans are interest-free as long as you keep up with the repayments, though late fees can apply. Larger or longer-term finance may charge interest, so always check the terms before signing.
Possibly. Being on a pension does not automatically disqualify you, but approval for third-party finance depends on the provider. It is also worth checking public dental support and, for children, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
That depends on the total cost and how long you spread it over. We give you a written quote first and show you the weekly or fortnightly amount so there are no surprises.
Yes. Claim your health fund rebate first to reduce the balance, then use a payment plan for whatever is left. That keeps your out-of-pocket instalments as low as possible.