Regular check-ups catch small problems before they become painful and expensive ones, so it’s worth finding a dentist you’re happy to keep going back to. Here’s how to choose a dentist in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, and the help available with costs.
Check their registration
Dentists, dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dental prosthetists all have to be registered with the Dental Board of Australia. You can check anyone on the AHPRA public register, which also shows any conditions on their registration. Specialists such as orthodontists, endodontists and periodontists hold specialist registration, which you’ll see on the register too.
It helps to know who does what. A general dentist handles check-ups, cleans, fillings and most everyday treatment. A dental prosthetist makes and fits dentures. An orthodontist straightens teeth with braces or aligners, and an endodontist specialises in root canal treatment.
Find a practice that suits your family
- Location and hours. Early, late or Saturday appointments make it easier to keep up with check-ups.
- Kids. If you have children, look for a practice that sees kids regularly and makes them feel at ease.
- Nervous patients. If you’re anxious about the dentist, ask how they help, such as longer appointments or sedation options.
- Emergencies. Ask whether they keep time free for same-day emergency appointments for a broken tooth or toothache.
- Languages. Many practices across the north have dentists who speak languages other than English, which can help with explaining treatment.
Dental help for kids
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) covers basic dental services for children aged 0 to 17 whose families receive certain payments, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A. Eligible children get a capped benefit over two calendar years for things like check-ups, X-rays, cleans and fillings. Check eligibility with Services Australia, and ask the practice whether they bulk bill under the CDBS.
Many Victorian government primary and secondary schools are also visited by Smile Squad, the state’s free school dental program, which offers check-ups and treatment at school.
Public dental
Public dental care in Victoria is available through community health services for eligible people, including children and adults with a health care or pensioner concession card. There can be waiting lists for general care, but emergency care is prioritised. Dental Health Services Victoria’s website explains who’s eligible and where to go.
Health fund extras and costs
If you have extras cover, ask your health fund what it pays for common treatment and whether the practice is one of its preferred providers, which can mean smaller gaps. Before bigger treatment, ask the dentist for a written treatment plan with item numbers, so you can check what your fund will pay. It’s also fine to ask about payment plans.
Questions worth asking
- Do you see children, and do you bulk bill under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
- Are you a preferred provider for my health fund?
- Can I get a written treatment plan with item numbers and costs?
- Do you keep time for emergency appointments?
- How do you help patients who are nervous about treatment?
Find dentists near you
Local Business Near Me lists dentists across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, including general dentists, orthodontists and denture clinics. Pick your suburb, compare local practices and call them directly. It’s free to use and there’s no middleman taking a cut.
Looking for other health care? Read our guide on how to find a GP in Melbourne’s north, or browse physio, chiro and allied health and pharmacies.
