Frequently Asked Questions

Fees

Date Posted: 1/1/2002

Question Do I have to pay my dental account on the same day as my treatment?

Answer Dentists, as anyone who provides a service, are entitled to determine their own terms. Many dentists expect payment on the day of treatment. This practice reflects the problems dentists have traditionally experienced of lack of payment of accounts, and the widespread availability of payment methods such as credit cards. If you are a new patient to a practice, it is usually expected that you be prepared to pay for the first visit at least, before you are approved for any account facilities. This is no different to any other business. If you are applying for an account, you may be expected to supply enough information to establish your identity and offer some commitment to pay for the treatment. Often the large laboratory costs incurred by dentists for such things as crowns and dentures will be asked to be paid at the commencement of treatment. Your dentist will inform you of your obligations in this regard.

More questions in this category:

What's in a dental fee?
Is there a recommended dental fee scale and how does this relate to Health Fund rebates?
Do I have to pay my dental account on the same day as my treatment?
Does the dentist have to itemise my account?