The Best Dentists in Brisbane
Updated 10 March 2023
Summary
- Going to the dentist can be uncomfortable for more reasons than one; combine the prospect of having needles and drills in your mouth with having to pay a not-insignificant amount of money to have work done makes many Australians reluctant to proceed.
- To help you choose the right dentist for your needs, our guide includes information on what to expect in terms of pricing, questions to ask, and frequently asked questions.
- In terms of quotes, obtaining at least three estimates and comparing them is the best method to guarantee the best pricing for your dental needs. You can then pick the dental professional that offers you the best deal.
- Important: The prices provided are intended as a general reference, and actual quotes may vary based on the specific requirements of the treatment and the work involved – every dental case is different, as is the pricing.
How Much Does Dental Work in Brisbane Cost?
How much you’ll have to pay for treatments depends on a few different factors:
- What you need doing – this is the biggest driver, given many standard treatments have comparable pricing.
- The individual dentist – prices aren’t standardized so that each dentist can set their fees. More experienced and tenured dentists are likely to charge more than those new to the practice.
- Whether you have access to Queensland Health’s oral health service benefits or private dental insurance.
- Your age – children aged between 2 and 17 receive free basic dental care if their parent or guardian gets relevant government payments or family tax benefits.
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) conducts biennial surveys of dental care providers country-wide to gauge the average price of various dental procedures. Cost information for some of the most common procedures is listed below:
| Procedure | Average cost | Cost range |
| Oral exam/check-up | $70 | $49 – $90 |
| X-ray (per frame) | $50 | $30 – $56 |
| Hygienist visit (scale & clean) | $125 | $93 – $165 |
| Simple extraction | $200 | $144 – $280 |
| Complex (surgical) extraction | $400 | $350 – $475 |
| Filling (front tooth – 1 surface) | $160 | $110 – $215 |
| Filling (front tooth – 2 surfaces) | $195 | $142 – $255 |
| FIlling (back tooth – 1 surface) | $175 | $122 – $220 |
| Filling (back tooth – 2 surfaces) | $220 | $161 – $280 |
| Full crown (veneered) | $1,500 | $1,051 – $2,000 |
| Teeth whitening (performed by a dentist) | $1,000 | $500 – $1,500 |
| Teeth whitening (take home kit) | $350 | $250 – $450 |
| Root canal (no crown) | $2,700 | $2,000 – $3,400 |
Dental Treatment Cost Calculator
- You can also use the very helpful Dental Aware Australia dental cost calculator to estimate how much your dentist visit might cost.
- This calculator allows you to approximate your costs based on your symptoms, what you think you might need to be done, or dental work item codes if you know exactly what you require.
- The costs in this calculator are sourced from the averages in the most recent ADA survey and some independent surveying.
- Note that these prices are pre-insurance, so you must factor that in if you can cover them.
How Can I Get the Best Price?
- Look into dental insurance or cover. Some organisations specialize in dental insurance and can provide you with upfront discounts and price caps on dental work. Smile.com.au is one example of a membership program which has a network of dentists and discounts treatments. Further to that, many traditional healthcare insurance providers have options for dental care, too – but make sure you read the terms and conditions – insurers will not cover pre-existing conditions so insurance is more of a long-term protection opportunity. Not all procedures will be covered, and some insurance companies will only cover work done by “preferred providers” (the insurer sets the cost for these providers). Many dental insurance rebates will only return a portion of the cost incurred for dental work to you as opposed to the full amount, and many policies will have annual or lifetime limits. Remember, insurance is only worth it if you’re likely to save more at the dentist than you spend on premiums – consider your individual needs before rushing in.
- Shop around. If your dental work isn’t urgent, take some time to request quotes from dental clinics around Brisbane. A good way to gauge how close a dentist’s prices are to the national average is to call them and ask for the costs of an oral check-up exam and hygienist visit and compare them to the table above. Once you’ve had a check-up, ask your dentist for the specifics if you need work done. You can then use this information to go out and request quotes from other providers to see if you can get a better price, and use the Dental Aware calculator to see whether the prices you’ve been quoted match your expectations.
- Check your eligibility for free public dental care. Children between 2 and 17 are entitled to free basic dental care if their parent or guardian receives a relevant government benefit or payment. Per Queensland Health, for adults and their dependants to be eligible for free public dental care they must be a Queensland resident and receive benefits from specific cards outlined here.
- Enquire about payment plans. No matter how much work you put in to try and reduce the financial burden of your dental work, odds are it’s still going to cost you, especially if you need something major done. Some dental care providers offer interest-free payment plans – this will allow you to break down large dental bills into smaller, more manageable parts.
DIY and Prevention Options
It is highly discouraged to perform any major dental work on yourself as it can result in further complications and the possibility of permanent damage. However, some basic dental care practices can be done at home as a complement to professional dental care. These include:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline
- Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or earlier if the bristles become frayed
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet to promote overall oral health
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Avoid using tobacco products
Important: It is important to note that these home care practices are meant to be used in conjunction with regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. A licensed and qualified dentist should only do any major dental work, such as filling cavities, extracting teeth, or performing root canals.
Useful Questions to Ask a Dentist
How is my overall dental health? Do you foresee any potential issues?
- Knowing as much as possible about your oral health is important, as small problems with your teeth or gums can become very big if left untreated.
- Ask your dentist if they see any potential problem areas, such as shadows on any tooth surfaces, that might suggest the development of a potential cavity.
- Knowing what to look out for and where to take extra special care may save you from major dental costs in the future.
What kind of treatments do you recommend?
- Depending on the specifics of your case, your dentist may recommend a combination of treatments, such as fillings, crowns, root canals, or extractions. Whatever is suggested, ask for a detailed explanation of each option, including pros, cons, costs, and estimated recovery time.
What are the risks and benefits of each treatment option?
- It’s important to understand the potential risks and benefits of any procedure you undergo, so you can make an informed decision about your treatment plan.
Do you use any alternative treatments?
- Depending on your preferences and the specifics of your case, you may want to explore alternative treatments, such as holistic or natural remedies.
- Ask your dentist if they offer these options and are appropriate for you.
What are the aftercare instructions for the recommended treatments?
- It’s important to know what steps you’ll need to take after your treatment to ensure a successful outcome, such as avoiding certain foods or practising good oral hygiene.
What’s your payment policy?
- Check with your dentist whether you’re expected to pay upfront before your consult or work is complete or if you can pay upon completion or via a payment plan.
Ask about any concerns you have
- If you have, for example, pain or sensitivity in a particular tooth or teeth, issues with grinding your teeth or bleeding gums, pain or stiffness in your jaw etc., it’s important to let your dentist know.
- These might be symptoms of underlying issues that aren’t immediately apparent to your dentist when they conduct a general oral exam. But, again, it’s better to be safe than sorry and catch small problems early.
How am I charged and how can I pay?
- Most providers will charge upfront or arrange a payment plan with you on the day of your treatment or exam, either before or after it is completed. If you have dental insurance, this may cover your upfront costs, or you may need to submit a rebate request after paying upfront.
- Most dental clinics/surgeries will accept payments via cash, debit card, credit card or cheque. Some may also have options for interest-free repayment services such as Afterpay or a bank account you can deposit payment into.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect on my first visit to the dentist?
On your first visit to the dentist, you can expect a thorough oral examination, including X-rays if necessary. In addition, the dentist will ask about your medical and dental history, discuss any concerns you may have, and recommend treatments if needed. You can also expect to receive an oral hygiene lesson and a personalized care plan for future visits – we suggest taking your phone to audio record what you’ll need to do as the explanations can be detailed.
What is the difference between a general dentist and a specialist dentist?
A general dentist provides standard dental care, such as check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other preventive treatments. A specialist dentist is further qualified in a specific area of dentistry, such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery. As a result, they provide more advanced treatments in their area of expertise.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist dentist?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to a specialist dentist. However, if you have dental insurance, some insurance plans may require a referral from your general dentist before covering the cost of specialist treatments. For this reason, checking with your insurance provider to confirm their requirements before making an appointment is best.
Is it possible to get dental treatment without insurance?
Yes, and many Australians don’t have insurance to cover dental treatment anyway. To help with costs, many dentists offer financing options or payment plans.
What should I do if I experience pain or discomfort after dental treatment?
If you experience pain or discomfort after dental treatment, contact your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to advise you on how to manage the discomfort and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.
What is the cost of common dental procedures in Brisbane?
The cost of dental procedures can vary widely depending on the dentist and the complexity of the treatment. Some common procedures, such as a routine cleaning or a filling, can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 or more. More advanced procedures, such as crowns or implants, can cost several thousand dollars. To get the best price, it’s best to contact several dentists in your area for a quote or check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
How do I prepare for a dental appointment?
To prepare for a dental appointment, it’s best to brush and floss your teeth before you go. In addition, if you have any dental X-rays, bring them to your appointment. Also, bring a list of medications you’re taking and any questions or concerns about your dental health.
What should I do if I have dental anxiety?
If you have dental anxiety, you must communicate with your dentist. They can offer options for sedation or pain management to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during your appointment.
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention to relieve pain or prevent further damage to your teeth or gums. Examples of dental emergencies include a toothache, broken or knocked-out teeth, and severe bleeding from the mouth. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
What is the difference between a dental cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a routine cleaning performed by a dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more thorough cleaning performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to treat gum disease. Deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing rough areas on the roots of your teeth to help the gums reattach.
How often do I need to go to the dentist?
There’s no hard and fast rule. Once you have a regular dentist, they will be able to give you a better idea of how often you should visit based on your circumstances and oral hygiene. A good rule of thumb is to have a check-up once a year or more often if you have any concerns about sensitivity, pain or anything else out of the ordinary. It’s recommended that you see a dentist ASAP if you have severe tooth pain, especially if it’s paired with other symptoms like a fever or bleeding gum – leaving situations like this unaddressed can be detrimental not only to your wallet if things get worse but also to your health.
Why is it important to go to the dentist regularly?
Preventive treatment and catching things before they escalate will always be cheaper than paying for expensive restoration, repair and emergency treatments if things get serious due to lack of attention. Regular dental care is an investment that pays off throughout your life – you’re going to use your teeth hundreds of thousands of times, so it’s best to keep them healthy. Oral health issues such as decay, infections, and gum disease can also cause serious health problems throughout the wider body. It’s not worth the risk.
Map of the Best Brisbane Dentists
We’ve put together the top Brisbane Dentists and have collated them into a map for you to help show you where they’re located.
Our List of the Best Brisbane Dentists
Face Value Dental
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: Level 11/138 Albert St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
- Website: Face Value Dental
- Mobile: 07 3221 0677
What customers like:
- Reassuring doctors who keep you calm during the whole procedure.
- Always professional, friendly, and efficient.
- Extremely knowledgeable and experienced with great technical skills.
Services offered (but not limited to): Aesthetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Dental Implants, Dentures, Dental Veneers, and more.
Bite Dental Studios
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: Level 6/141 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
- Website: Bite Dental Studios
- Mobile: 07 3221 5399
- Email address: reception@bitedental.com.au
What customers like:
- Staff display the highest standard of skills and deliver great results.
- Very professional and all the staff are accommodating and friendly.
- Welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
Services offered (but not limited to): All dental and oral care services.
Brisbane Dental
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: Ground Floor, 420 George St, Brisbane City, 4000
- Website: Brisbane Dental
- Mobile: 07 3236 2984
- Email address: reception@brisbanedental.com.au
What customers like:
- Other dentists are among some of the customers at Brisbane Dental.
- Kind and professional team.
- Calming, gentle, and highly recommended.
Services offered (but not limited to): Oral Hygiene, General Dentistry, Facial Rejuvenation, Advanced Restorative Dentistry, and Cosmetic Dentistry.
Wickham Terrace Dental
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: Morris Towers, 149 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane City, 4000
- Website: Wickham Terrace Dental
- Mobile: 07 3831 3031
- Email address: contact@wickhamterracedental.com.au
What customers like:
- Top-notch customer service and professionalism in every aspect.
- Efficient, and attentive team.
- Capable of orthodontic work including Invisalign.
Services offered (but not limited to): General, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dentistry, and orthodontic.
Excellence in Dentistry
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: Morris Towers, Suite 26, 2nd Floor/149 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane City, 4000
- Website: Excellence In Dentistry
- Mobile: 07 3839 7757
What customers like:
- Responsive, and knowledgeable doctors.
- Very affordable and brilliant results.
- Warm and friendly practice.
Services offered (but not limited to): General and Cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics.
Bupa Dental Brisbane
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: 27 Adelaide St, Brisbane City, 4000
- Website: Bupa Dental Brisbane
- Mobile: 07 3228 2400
- Contact: Visit the contact form
What customers like about Bupa Dental Brisbane:
- Highly skilled and knowledgeable doctors.
- Consistent quality service.
- Dentists provide a good explanation with recommendations for issues.
Services offered (but not limited to): Oral hygiene, Gum (periodontal) treatment, Mouthguards, Crowns and bridges, Veneers, White fillings, and more services.
Pure Dentist Brisbane Dental Clinics
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: 11, 1932/1974 Logan Rd, Upper Mount Gravatt, 4122
- Website: Pure Dentist Brisbane Dental
- Mobile: 07 3343 4869
- Email address: info@puredentistry.com.au
What customers like about Pure Dentist Brisbane Dental Clinics:
- Provide a high level of care and amazing services.
- One of the best child dentists in Brisbane.
- Professional attitude, calm, and comforting.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dental implant, root canal, dental crown.