Dentist?

Has anyone gone to the dentist while in Aus?

Whilst talking to some of my co-workers, they stated that there was generally a 1 year waiting list to see a dentist, and that it would be quite expensive.

I'm used to paying out of pocket for a cleaning when in Canada, but how much does it cost in Australia? Does anyone have experience with long wait lists for a dentist here?

I have gone to a dentist, an oral surgeon and an orthodontist in Australia. I found the level of care very good.

I never had a one year wait but that is in Cairns, QLD and things may be different where you are.

For dental work (cleaning and simple tooth extraction), I simply went to a medical centre that had a number of doctors and dentists under one roof. It also had a pharmacy and some diagnostic services (X-rays, blood testing, etc.). The longest wait was 1 month but part of that was to fit my work schedule. I remember one cleaning that was done 2 days after I called to make an appointment. I think it only cost about $90. The simple tooth extraction at the dentist was about $160.

I also had to get 2 teeth extracted by an oral surgeon. There is only one oral surgeon in Cairns, so it took about two months to get the first consultation after I had X-rays done (very quick at walk in clinic). That was followed by the surgery about 6 weeks later. Everything went fine. Total cost was about $800 for the oral surgeon and $400 for the anathethist. My company health plan covered 80% of the costs

Finally, orthodontic treatment over 15 months cost about $5,500 plus $300 for periodontic check beforehand. Hope this helps.