- New Zealand is lagging behind other countries in providing basic, affordable dental treatment for those who need it most. In the UK people on social security and also those over 65 are entitled to free basic dental care. Countries in Europe refund a portion of the costs of dental treatments. The Medicare social insurance programme in the US provides cover for those over 65 who are willing to pay for the extra dental benefit.
- The cost of subsidising dental care is high. But the cost of ignoring the problem is also high for a health system left to deal with the consequences of neglect.
- Take a preventive approach - don't wait for problems. See your dentist at least once a year so that decay can be detected and treated early.
- If you're coming up to retirement and have the money, it makes sense to invest in long-term treatments. They're more expensive but they'll last longer than cheaper quick fixes.
Dental escapes
You can combine your overseas holiday with a visit to the dentist - travel agencies are advertising cheap dental treatments in tourist destinations such as Malaysia and Thailand.
We looked at cosmetic surgery in October 2008. The same advice applies here - check out the dentist's credentials rather than take an agent's word. Ask the agent for references from travellers who've had dental work done on a holiday package.
Be aware that you are not protected by New Zealand consumer law and won't have access to ACC should a treatment injury occur. If you needed remedial work you'd have to pay a second dentist in New Zealand or travel back to the overseas dentist.
If you're dissatisfied with treatment locally, the Dental Council of New Zealand can provide information and advice on how to deal with any problems.
More information
- Ministry of Health: www.moh.govt.nz/oralhealth
- New Zealand Dental Association: www.healthysmiles.org.nz
- Dental Council of New Zealand: www.dcnz.org.nz
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