Teeth

Check & clean, fillings, extractions, crowns, root canals, orthodontics

What it is

A dentist checks your teeth and gums, cleans off tartar and polishes, and also does fillings, extractions, crowns, root canals and orthodontics.

Who it's for

Everyone — especially if it's been a while, your gums bleed, you have toothache or crooked teeth, or need a filling or crown.

How often

Many dentists suggest a check-up and clean every 6–12 months. Fillings, crowns, root canals and braces follow your dentist's plan.

How Extras usually covers it

Typical price $220–$320; Extras typically pays $120–$250 (per check-up & clean).

（Estimate only — your insurer has the final say）

Check-ups, cleans, X-rays and simple fillings are usually "general dental", covered by most Extras. Crowns and root canals are "major dental", and orthodontics is usually separate — often only on mid or top cover, with longer waiting periods.

Good to know

Before fillings, crowns, root canals or braces, ask for a quote with item numbers and check with your insurer.
Ask reception to check your rebate via HICAPS before you pay.
Waiting periods depend on your policy: often 2 months for general dental and 12 months for major dental and orthodontics.

Questions

How many cleans can I claim a year?

It depends on your policy. Some cover 2 check-ups a year; others only have a yearly limit. Check your insurer's app.

Can I claim braces?

Only if your policy includes orthodontics. There's usually a separate lifetime or yearly limit and a 12-month waiting period.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please follow your practitioner's professional advice about treatment.