Dental cover is an important part of any Extras health insurance policy, which is why, in 2024, we are making some changes to ours.
From 1 January, we’re increasing benefits across 77 of our most claimed General and Major Dental services, meaning less out-of-pocket costs for members.
The changes will take effect across our Top Extras, Advanced Extras, Essential Extras, Value Extras, Premium Options, Super Options, Special Options and Saver Options policies, and include some services such as:
- Scale and clean
- Oral examinations
- Adhesive/metallic restorations
- Mouthguards1
- Root canal treatment
- Crowns
- Dentures
HIF CEO Justin James said the benefits increase was part of HIF’s commitment to providing choice and access to members and placing greater emphasis on the importance of dental health.
Poor dental health is associated with a number of chronic diseases, including heart disease, oral cancers, diabetes and stroke.2
“We know dental health is linked to general health and wellbeing yet access to services is a major issue for many people on low incomes across the country,” Mr James said.
“We hope that by increasing benefits across our dental services, it will not only bring a little financial reprieve for members but also encourage them to place more importance on their dental health, including having regular check-ups.”
More than 14.5 million Australians (55% of the Australian population) have Extras cover with dental insurance coverage, while around 60% of all Extras benefits paid fall under Dental.3
Members who have booked in for dental treatment can get a benefit estimate from their provider via HICAPS, through our Online Member Centre, by submitting a Dental Estimate Request Form here, or by contacting HIF on 1300 134 060 or hello@hif.com.au.
Member FAQs
What is changing?
HIF is increasing benefits for 77 General and Major Dental items across some of our Extras products.
Increases will be made on the most frequently claimed items, meaning less out-of-pocket costs and more value for members.
When will these changes come into effect?
The changes will take effect on 1 January 2024.
Will waiting periods apply?
You won’t have to re-serve any waiting periods to claim for the increased benefits, provided you have already served waiting periods for General Dental and Major Dental on your cover,
What if I'm already booked in for dental treatment?
Eligible members will only be able to claim for the increased dental benefits from 1 January 2024.
If you’re already booked in for dental treatment, you can get a benefits estimate from your provider via HICAPS, by submitting a Dental Estimate Request Form on the HIF website, or by contacting HIF on 1300 134 060 or hello@hif.com.au
What products will receive higher dental benefits?
Top Extras, Advanced Extras, Essential Extras, Value Extras, Premium Options, Super Options, Special Options and Saver Options.
1 Excluding item number 153
2 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
3 Private Healthcare Australia