OSHC Dental Coverage and Extras Compared
What OSHC covers for dental care and how extras differ across providers.
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Understanding OSHC and Dental Care
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is the health insurance required for international students in Australia. However, its coverage for dental services is limited. Typically, OSHC policies cover only medically necessary dental treatment that occurs in a hospital, such as after an accident. Routine dental care like examinations, cleanings, fillings, and extractions is generally not included.
What Dental Services Are Typically Excluded?
Most OSHC policies exclude routine dental services because they are considered non-urgent or preventive. This means you can expect to pay out-of-pocket for:
- Dental examinations
- Cleanings (scale and polish)
- Fillings
- Tooth extractions (unless medically required in a hospital)
- Orthodontic treatment
Always check your specific policy document, as details may vary between providers.
Extras Cover: The Way to Get Dental Benefits
To receive coverage for routine dental care, you need to purchase an extras (or ancillary) cover, which is often available as an add-on to your OSHC policy. Extras cover provides benefits for services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy.
Comparing Extras Dental Benefits Across Providers
When comparing extras dental benefits, consider these factors:
- Annual limit: The maximum amount the insurer will pay per year
- Per-service benefit: The amount paid per dental visit or treatment
- Waiting periods: Some policies have a waiting period before you can claim
- Gap payments: You may need to pay the difference between the dentist’s fee and the insurer’s benefit
It is important to compare the details of each provider’s extras policy, as benefits and limits vary significantly.
How to Choose an Extras Plan
Since OSHC policies themselves do not cover routine dental, you should look for an extras plan that fits your needs. Consider your dental usage and compare the annual limits and benefits offered by different insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim dental check-ups on OSHC?
Generally, no. OSHC does not cover routine dental check-ups, cleanings, or fillings.
Is there any dental coverage under OSHC?
Some OSHC policies may cover emergency dental treatment performed in a hospital, such as after an accident, but this is limited.
How do I get dental cover?
You need to purchase an extras cover, which is an add-on to your OSHC policy, to receive benefits for routine dental services.
What should I compare in extras dental cover?
Compare annual limits, per-service benefits, waiting periods, and any out-of-pocket costs.