SA dentist calls for subsidy to include adult patients struggling with cost of living

A South Australian dentist says subsidies for adults should be introduced as patients put off expensive treatments because of the cost of living. Key points: Treatments such as root canals can cost up to $1,800 per tooth Postponing treatments can lead to ongoing pain and greater overall cost in the long run Most families eligible for existing subsidies are not using them Gaurav Madan said there had been a drop in procedures at his Naracoorte clinic over the last 12 months. "There was a program that was rolled out Australia-wide where people with morbidities like diabetes … were permitted to have dental treatment up to $4,000 over a calendar period of two years," he said. Families missing out SA Dental executive director Mark Chilvers said funding for the sector had increased, particularly for public dental services, but more needed to be done. "We have a universal health care system here in Australia … but dental care is not considered universal and not funded in that manner," he said.