Kyle is an epidemiologist and the founder of Pearlii. He sat down with Deirdre Fidge for a chat.

To begin, could you introduce yourself and describe Pearlii in 1-2 quick sentences?

My name is Kyle, I’m the founder of Pearlii, a dental startup in Melbourne that provides free dental check-ups using AI technology.

We also sell our own line of eco-friendly oral care products, with 50% of the profits donated to providing free dental care to First Nation Peoples, as well as other disadvantaged groups.

Great! Now for the longer version. Can you give us the company’s story?

I’m originally from outback Australia, where dental services are generally scarce, but these services were completely out of reach for me as a child given that my family was quite poor.

This really upsets me because I now know as an adult, and an epidemiologist, how easy it is to prevent oral diseases with routine check-ups, and regularly brushing and flossing.

Sadly, millions of Australians can’t afford or access a dentist, while many also have no idea about the importance of healthy teeth and gums.

Sadly, millions of Australians can’t afford or access a dentist, while many also have no idea about the importance of healthy teeth and gums. Plaque bacteria are dangerous - they build up in your mouth and become a significant risk factor for heart disease, dementia, diabetes, birth complications, and many other diseases.

I started working on Pearlii in 2018 because I didn’t want any kid growing up with bad teeth. I knew that technology could help - we’re now able to provide people with free dental check-ups and free oral health education through smartphones, at home and available 24-7.

Like many startups working through the pandemic, it’s safe to assume it wasn’t easy for you. What kept you going (and whatkeepsyou going) through the more challenging times?

Building a business is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. There have been many, many times when I thought Pearlii wasn’t going to work, especially during Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, but for some silly reason I just kept going.

The reasons to keep going have compounded over the last few years. I now have a team to look after, customers, a board, investors, etc. but the initial motivation still lights a fire in my mind - that feeling of shame and embarrassment when I was a teenager, having stained and crooked teeth.

For years, I didn’t smile showing my upper teeth.

I don’t want any kid feeling like that about their smile.

I probably shouldn’t say this, but this wasn’t always the case. It’s taken years to cultivate.

I needed to learn how to find, hire, and manage good people. I needed to learn how to manage stress and anxiety. I needed to learn how to build a positive culture, figuring out little signals that reveal when there is an issue.

It’s taken longer than I wanted, but I’m so proud of this team. They’re all stars, brilliant at what they do, but even better, they’re fun to work with. A lot of laughter around the office nowadays, which I’m very grateful for. My team is my favourite thing about Pearlii.

Goals evolve, but right now I’m laser focused on getting our first dental truck.

We’re working hard to have our first Pearlii Dental Truck on the road in 2023, but there is still a lot of work to be done before that can happen.

The Pearlii App is wonderful on the prevention side, but there are still millions of Australians out there who need treatment, particularly within rural and remote First Nation communities, which is where I plan to send our trucks first.

My dream is to one day have a fleet of Pearlii Dental Trucks, funded through our software solutions and oral care products.

Thanks Kyle for taking the time to answer our questions!

Learn more about how Pearlii are achieving their Dental Truck goals:

Kyle is an epidemiologist and the founder of Pearlii. He sat down with Deirdre Fidge for a chat.  To begin, could you introduce yourself and describe Pearlii in 1-2 quick sentences? My name is Kyle, I’m the founder of Pearlii, a dental startup in Melbourne that provides free dental check-ups using AI technology. We also sell our own line of eco-friendly oral care products, with 50% of the profits donated to providing free dental care to First Nation Peoples, as well as other disadvantaged groups.  Great! Now for the longer version. Can you give us the company’s story? Let’s do it. I’m originally from outback Australia, where dental services are generally scarce, but these services were completely out of reach for me as a child given that my family was quite poor. And the result? Shit teeth. This really upsets me because I now know as an adult, and an epidemiologist, how easy it is to prevent oral diseases with routine check-ups, and regularly brushing and flossing. Sadly, millions of Australians can’t afford or access a dentist, while many also have no idea about the importance of healthy teeth and gums. Sadly, millions of Australians can’t afford or access a dentist, while many also have no idea about the importance of healthy teeth and gums. Plaque bacteria are dangerous - they build up in your mouth and become a significant risk factor for heart disease, dementia, diabetes, birth complications, and many other diseases. It all starts in the mouth! I started working on Pearlii in 2018 because I didn’t want any kid growing up with bad teeth. I knew that technology could help - we’re now able to provide people with free dental check-ups and free oral health education through smartphones, at home and available 24-7.  Like many startups working through the pandemic, it’s safe to assume it wasn’t easy for you. What kept you going (and whatkeepsyou going) through the more challenging times? Building a business is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. There have been many, many times when I thought Pearlii wasn’t going to work, especially during Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, but for some silly reason I just kept going. The reasons to keep going have compounded over the last few years. I now have a team to look after, customers, a board, investors, etc. but the initial motivation still lights a fire in my mind - that feeling of shame and embarrassment when I was a teenager, having stained and crooked teeth. For years, I didn’t smile showing my upper teeth. I don’t want any kid feeling like that about their smile.  What do you love about your team? Ah, I love my team. I probably shouldn’t say this, but this wasn’t always the case. It’s taken years to cultivate. I needed to learn how to find, hire, and manage good people. I needed to learn how to manage stress and anxiety. I needed to learn how to build a positive culture, figuring out little signals that reveal when there is an issue. It’s taken longer than I wanted, but I’m so proud of this team. They’re all stars, brilliant at what they do, but even better, they’re fun to work with. A lot of laughter around the office nowadays, which I’m very grateful for. My team is my favourite thing about Pearlii.  What does ‘success’ mean to you? Goals evolve, but right now I’m laser focused on getting our first dental truck. We’re working hard to have our first Pearlii Dental Truck on the road in 2023, but there is still a lot of work to be done before that can happen. The Pearlii App is wonderful on the prevention side, but there are still millions of Australians out there who need treatment, particularly within rural and remote First Nation communities, which is where I plan to send our trucks first. My dream is to one day have a fleet of Pearlii Dental Trucks, funded through our software solutions and oral care products. Thanks Kyle for taking the time to answer our questions! Learn more about how Pearlii are achieving their Dental Truck goals:

A chat with Pearlii’s founder, Dr Kyle Turner

Q&A: Pearlii founder, Dr Kyle Turner

When it comes to dental health, most of us have a similar way of dealing with it - not dealing with it till the pain kicks-in. We’re talking ‘not even Panadol works anymore' pain! 

Oral health is like the neglected step-child begging for attention with little to no luck. We often treat oral health and overall health as two separate conversations. But studies suggest the two are closely linked; they are a part of the same body after all! 

Here are some health problems related to poor oral health - 

Researchers at the University of Bergen have found a clear link between gum disease and Alzheimer's. They have found DNA-based proof that the bacteria causing gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain. Here it produces a protein that destroys nerve cells in the brain, which in turn leads to Dementia and ultimately, Alzheimer's.

The first signs of diabetes can be spotted in the mouth. Some commonly observed symptoms include gum disease, gum abscesses, fungal infections such as thrush, mouth ulcers. Like all infections, gum inflammation can cause your blood sugar to rise making diabetes even harder to control. Paying attention to your oral health can help in early detection and better management of diabetes. 

Our mouth is not too far from our respiratory tract and lungs. Due to its proximity, the bacteria from infected teeth and swollen gums can reach our respiratory system through the air we breathe or through the bloodstream. Once there, it can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, and even COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).

A mom's health is connected to the health of her unborn baby and that includes oral health too! Bacteria from gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. Here it triggers the production of chemicals that are suspected to induce premature labor. Remember, a mom with poor oral health is very likely to pass-on damaging bacteria to her newborn.

Our smile is one of the ways we connect with others. Poor oral health leads to conditions like bad breath and overall bad teeth which directly affects our smile. This takes a toll on a person's self-esteem, confidence and overall ability to socialise. It also affects communication skills, participation at school and overall  social development in kids.

Your oral health gives a sneak-peek into your general health. Taking care of your oral health goes a long way in reducing the risk of more serious health problems.

When it comes to dental health, most of us have a similar way of dealing with it - stubbornly avoiding it until the pain kicks in. We’re talking ‘not even Panadol works anymore' pain! 

Oral health is like the neglected step-child begging for attention with little to no luck. We often treat oral health and overall health as two separate conversations. But studies suggest the two are closely linked; they are a part of the same body after all!

What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? [Clip]

Watch the full interview here: What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? With Dr Jalal Khan.

Here are some health problems related to poor oral health: 

Researchers at the University of Bergen have found a clear link between gum disease and Alzheimer's. They have found DNA-based proof that the bacteria causing gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain. Here it produces a protein that destroys nerve cells in the brain, which in turn leads to dementia and ultimately, Alzheimer's.

The first signs of diabetes can be spotted in the mouth. Some commonly observed symptoms include gum disease, gum abscesses, fungal infections (such as thrush),  and mouth ulcers. Like all infections, gum inflammation can cause your blood sugar to rise making diabetes even harder to control. Paying attention to your oral health can help in early detection and better management of diabetes. 

Paying attention to your oral health can help in early detection and better management of diabetes.

A mother's health is connected to the health of her unborn baby and that includes oral health too! Bacteria from gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. Here it triggers the production of chemicals that are suspected to induce premature labour. Remember, a mother with poor oral health is very likely to pass on damaging bacteria to her newborn.

How does pregnancy affect oral health? [Clip]

Watch the full interview here: How does pregnancy affect oral health? With Dr Som-Ling Leung

Our smile is one of the ways we connect with others. Poor oral health leads to conditions like bad breath and overall bad teeth which directly affects our smile. This takes a toll on a person's self-esteem, confidence and overall ability to socialise. It also affects communication skills, participation at school and overall social development in kids.

Your oral health gives a sneak-peek into your general health. Taking care of your oral health goes a long way in reducing the risk of more serious health problems. A consistent oral health routine including brushing with a bamboo or electric toothbrush and using dental floss can be the first steps into avoiding these issues.

Start a Challenge to improve your oral health today!

Brush your teeth – Postpone Alzheimer's

Brushing for Two: How Your Oral Health Affects Baby

When it comes to dental health, most of us have a similar way of dealing with it - stubbornly avoiding it until the pain kicks in. We’re talking ‘not even Panadol works anymore' pain!  Oral health is like the neglected step-child begging for attention with little to no luck. We often treat oral health and overall health as two separate conversations. But studies suggest the two are closely linked; they are a part of the same body after all!  Watch the full interview here: What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? With Dr Jalal Khan. Here are some health problems related to poor oral health:   Dementia & Alzheimer's Researchers at the University of Bergen have found a clear link between gum disease and Alzheimer's. They have found DNA-based proof that the bacteria causing gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain. Here it produces a protein that destroys nerve cells in the brain, which in turn leads to dementia and ultimately, Alzheimer's.  Diabetes The first signs of diabetes can be spotted in the mouth. Some commonly observed symptoms include gum disease, gum abscesses, fungal infections (such as thrush),  and mouth ulcers. Like all infections, gum inflammation can cause your blood sugar to rise making diabetes even harder to control. Paying attention to your oral health can help in early detection and better management of diabetes.  Paying attention to your oral health can help in early detection and better management of diabetes.  Respiratory diseases Our mouth is not too far from our respiratory tract and lungs. Due to its proximity, the bacteria from infected teeth and swollen gums can reach our respiratory system through the air we breathe or through the bloodstream. Once there, it can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, and even COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).  Pregnancy complications A mother's health is connected to the health of her unborn baby and that includes oral health too! Bacteria from gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to the uterus. Here it triggers the production of chemicals that are suspected to induce premature labour. Remember, a mother with poor oral health is very likely to pass on damaging bacteria to her newborn.  Watch the full interview here: How does pregnancy affect oral health? With Dr Som-Ling Leung  Overall wellbeing Our smile is one of the ways we connect with others. Poor oral health leads to conditions like bad breath and overall bad teeth which directly affects our smile. This takes a toll on a person's self-esteem, confidence and overall ability to socialise. It also affects communication skills, participation at school and overall social development in kids. Your oral health gives a sneak-peek into your general health. Taking care of your oral health goes a long way in reducing the risk of more serious health problems. A consistent oral health routine including brushing with a bamboo or electric toothbrush and using dental floss can be the first steps into avoiding these issues. Start a Challenge to improve your oral health today!

Studies reveal that our oral and overall health are closely related. Learn more about this link and the impact of poor oral health on your overall health.

Oral health and overall health

Fear of dentists is one of the most common fears people have. For some, it’s crippling. The buzz of a dental drill sends them running for the nearest exit. 

This anxiety commonly gets in the way of people scheduling a dental check-up or even turning up for their appointment. Their condition then worsens, only adding to the pressure of a visit to the dentist.

Here are a few tips to help you break this vicious cycle:  

Believe it or not, there are dentists who specialise in treating people with anxiety. 

These dentists go the extra mile in eliminating environmental triggers, such as not showcasing before-after pictures that depict the horrors of tooth decay and gum disease. Most play calming music, while some have installed sound-proof doors to limit other patients from hearing the sound of the drill. 

A dental clinic devoid of these common anxiety cues can help a great deal.  

Your dentist can’t help you if you don’t talk to them.

Most dentists have a “safe signal” that patients can use to stop the procedure at any point. So, be open about your fears and anxiety with your dentist. 

Better yet, let them know when you schedule an appointment. Chances are they might book you in with someone who specialises in similar patients, or find you a less busy time.   

Whenever you start to feel overcome by anxiety, remind yourself that you’re doing this because you need help, and to stop things going from bad to really bad.   

More often than not, the anticipation of pain makes you more anxious than the actual pain. 

It is easy to be overwhelmed by the ambient sights and sounds while you’re in the waiting room. So, bring along a friend, partner, or relative who can talk to you and help you stay calm. 

Don’t be shy to bring your mum; we know, in all likelihood she scheduled the appointment :)

If you can’t start your day without that ‘caffeine hit’, you’re going to hate us for this one. 

The much sought-after sense of alertness offered by a good brew is a welcome feeling on most days, but it is usually accompanied by a spike in anxiety. So, that morning cuppa may not be the best idea before your appointment. 

Try to skip your coffee, or replace it with some calming herbal tea.  

Muscle tension is one of the ways our body reacts to fear and anxiety, so why not try some relaxation techniques before your appointment. 

Many people swear by controlled breathing - taking a big breath, holding it, and letting it out slowly, like a leaky tire. This slows your heartbeat and relaxes your muscles.   

Even if your mind tells you to relax, your body might not listen. 

If the sound of the drill or the suction pump are your triggers, bring along some of your favourite music to distract you. If you happen to have noise-cancelling headphones, definitely bring them too!   

Overcoming fear and anxiety is an ongoing process, which does not happen overnight. But we hope these simple techniques will be the boost you need.

Dental anxiety is one of the most common fears people have. For some, it’s crippling. The buzz of a dental drill sends them running for the nearest exit. 

Why are we scared of the dentist? [Clip 1]

Watch the full interview here: Why are we scared of the dentist? With Dr. Som-ling Leung

Here are a few tips to help you break this vicious cycle:

These dentists go the extra mile in eliminating environmental triggers, such as not showcasing before and after pictures that depict the horrors of tooth decay and gum disease. Most play calming music, while some have installed sound-proof doors to limit other patients from hearing the sound of the drill. 

A dental clinic devoid of these common anxiety cues can help a great deal.

Most dentists have a ‘safe signal’ that patients can use to stop the procedure at any point. So, be open about your fears and anxiety with your dentist. 

Better yet, let them know when you schedule an appointment. Chances are they might book you in with someone who specialises in similar patients, or find you a less busy time. 

Why are we scared of the dentist? [Clip 2]

The much sought-after sense of alertness offered by a good brew is a welcome feeling on most days, but it is usually accompanied by a spike in anxiety. So, that morning caffeine kick may not be the best idea before your appointment. 

Try to skip your coffee and replace it with some calming herbal tea followed by your favourite whitening toothpaste instead.

Many people swear by controlled breathing - taking a big breath, holding it, and letting it out slowly, like a leaky tire. This slows your heartbeat and relaxes your muscles. 

If the sound of the drill or the suction pump are your triggers, bring along some of your favourite music or comfort items to distract you. For some that might be a bit of Michael Bublé, and others might be playing with the string of dental floss - whatever works for you!

Overcoming fear and anxiety is an ongoing process, which does not happen overnight. But we hope these simple techniques will be the boost you need. Overcoming fear and anxiety is an ongoing process, which does not happen overnight. But we hope these simple techniques will be the boost you need to make your next appointment a little more calm.

Explore the Pearlii App for more dental tips!

Dental Anxiety: 3 Ways to Stop Fearing the Dentist

Dental phobia: How to overcome fear of the dentist

Overcome Dental Anxiety: 10 Ways to Manage Fear of the Dentist

Dental anxiety is one of the most common fears people have. For some, it’s crippling. The buzz of a dental drill sends them running for the nearest exit.  This anxiety commonly gets in the way of people scheduling a dental check-up or even turning up for their appointment. Their condition then worsens, only adding to the pressure of a visit to the dentist.  Watch the full interview here: Why are we scared of the dentist? With Dr. Som-ling Leung Here are a few tips to help you break this vicious cycle:  Find the right dentist Believe it or not, there are dentists who specialise in treating people with anxiety.  These dentists go the extra mile in eliminating environmental triggers, such as not showcasing before and after pictures that depict the horrors of tooth decay and gum disease. Most play calming music, while some have installed sound-proof doors to limit other patients from hearing the sound of the drill.  A dental clinic devoid of these common anxiety cues can help a great deal.  Talk to your dentist! Your dentist can’t help you if you don’t talk to them. Most dentists have a ‘safe signal’ that patients can use to stop the procedure at any point. So, be open about your fears and anxiety with your dentist.  Better yet, let them know when you schedule an appointment. Chances are they might book you in with someone who specialises in similar patients, or find you a less busy time.   Watch the full interview here: Why are we scared of the dentist? With Dr. Som-ling Leung  Bring a buddy  More often than not, the anticipation of pain makes you more anxious than the actual pain.  It is easy to be overwhelmed by the ambient sights and sounds while you’re in the waiting room. So, bring along a friend, partner, or relative who can talk to you and help you stay calm.  Don’t be shy to bring your mum; we know, in all likelihood she scheduled the appointment :)  Skip coffee If you can’t start your day without that ‘caffeine hit’, you’re going to hate us for this one.  The much sought-after sense of alertness offered by a good brew is a welcome feeling on most days, but it is usually accompanied by a spike in anxiety. So, that morning caffeine kick may not be the best idea before your appointment.  Try to skip your coffee and replace it with some calming herbal tea followed by your favourite whitening toothpaste instead.  Try some relaxation techniques Muscle tension is one of the ways our body reacts to fear and anxiety, so why not try some relaxation techniques before your appointment.  Many people swear by controlled breathing - taking a big breath, holding it, and letting it out slowly, like a leaky tire. This slows your heartbeat and relaxes your muscles.   Finally, let the music play!  If the sound of the drill or the suction pump are your triggers, bring along some of your favourite music or comfort items to distract you. For some that might be a bit of Michael Bublé, and others might be playing with the string of dental floss - whatever works for you! Overcoming fear and anxiety is an ongoing process, which does not happen overnight. But we hope these simple techniques will be the boost you need. Overcoming fear and anxiety is an ongoing process, which does not happen overnight. But we hope these simple techniques will be the boost you need to make your next appointment a little more calm. Explore the Pearlii App for more dental tips!

Does the thought of going to a dentist make you nervous? You are not alone.

Overcoming dental anxiety

Here at Pearlii, we understand that the onset of a throbbing toothache is hardly the ideal time to start researching Medicare’s dental coverage. The system is confusing, and despite the fact that Medicare is considered a ‘universal health insurance scheme for all Australians’, reimbursements for dental care are limited. 

So, to help you out, we've done the heavy-lifting for you. We’ve gathered all the information on the different benefit groups, and created a quick explainer on what the coverage provides. We’ve also looked into whether cosmetic treatments are ever covered, plus we explore what happens if you need your wisdom teeth removed. 

Providing dental care means taking care of your teeth and mouth by a dentist, dental specialist, or other health professional. Dental services in Australia are provided by either public or private dentists. The cost of dental care varies widely from dentist to dentist. The reason for this is that dentists do not have standard fees as doctors have. The cost of dental care differs depending on where the dentist practices and what methods he or she employs.

Bottom line: unlike other types of health care, the Australian government does not cover the costs of most dental services. In most cases, patients are responsible for paying dental expenses. However, Medicare pays for some essential dental services for those children and adults who qualify.

Under this plan, children ages 2 to 17 receive $1,000 over two calendar years for basic dental services, including x-rays, dental check-ups, fillings, cleaning, root canals, and extractions. The plan excludes orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, as well as hospital dentistry.

There are no charges for the majority of services because they are bulk billed. Families who are already receiving other government benefits are eligible to receive the payments. Visit the Services Australia website to determine if your child qualifies.

State and territory dental plans cover both children and adults. In addition to emergency treatment, patients may be referred to specialist services such as orthodontic treatment at hospitals. In general, adults who wish to benefit from the program should have a Health Care Card or Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card, but the rules vary according to where they live.

State and territory dental services differ, and waiting times can be greater than a year for a visit with a dentist. For information about what health services are available in your area, visit the website of your state or territory health department. Under the Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Scheme, those less than 28 years of age are eligible for Medicare benefits associated with some dental treatments and surgeries.

What Dental Services are Covered by Medicare?

The following services should be available to Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for dental coverage:

Diagnostic
If a dentist needs to perform a particular procedure in order to diagnose an issue, this would usually be covered.

Preventative
Up to a certain limit, procedures such as scaling and cleaning are covered for eligible groups. This is because it prevents costly, more serious dental problems from occurring in the future.

Oral Surgery
The cost of surgery on the mouth or teeth is sometimes covered. In many cases, though, the dentist will refer you to the hospital to be treated there. 

Does Medicare Pay for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Here's the million dollar question...can you get reimbursed for wisdom teeth removal? The answer is...it depends. Wisdom teeth removal may be partially covered by some states, including NSW, WA, and NT. In order to have your wisdom teeth removed, you must have a valid medical reason. It would be wise to speak to someone at your state's local clinic about getting financial assistance and go to a bulk billing dentist - otherwise, the expense of tooth extraction is high without private health insurance coverage.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Medicare?

Keen to correct a crooked smile? Medicare will help cover severe cases causing major health concerns, but not if the braces are needed for purely aesthetic reasons. Teeth whitening also falls under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry, and therefore is not reimbursed by Medicare. 

Teeth whitening done in the chair can tend to be quite expensive, but varies depending on the practice. For an option that is safe, proven to work and much more cost-effective, whitening products from Pearlii are made in line with the Australian Dental Association safety standards. Best of all, for every Home Teeth Whitening Kit sold, Pearlii sponsors an entire year’s supply of toothpaste and toothbrushes for a child in East Timor.

Now that you have graduated from Pearlii's Medicare information session, you should be well-equipped with all the information you need about dental coverage. 

What are you waiting for? Add that whitening kit to your cart now!

So, to help you out, we've done the heavy-lifting for you. We’ve gathered all the information on the different benefit groups, and created a quick explainer on what the coverage provides. We’ve also looked into whether cosmetic treatments are ever covered, plus we explore what happens if you need your wisdom teeth removed. 

What is the biggest barrier to good oral health [Clip 2]

Watch the full interview here: What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? With Dr Jalal Khan

What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? [Clip 3]

State and territory dental services differ, and waiting times can be greater than a year for a visit with a dentist.

What dental services are covered by Medicare?

If a dentist needs to perform a particular procedure in order to diagnose an issue, this would usually be covered.

Up to a certain limit, procedures such as scaling and cleaning are covered for eligible groups. This is because it prevents costly, more serious dental problems from occurring in the future.

The cost of surgery on the mouth or teeth is sometimes covered. In many cases, though, the dentist will refer you to the hospital to be treated there. 

Does Medicare pay for wisdom tooth removal?

Here's the million dollar question.. Can you get reimbursed for wisdom teeth removal? The answer is... It depends. Wisdom teeth removal may be partially covered by some states, including NSW, WA, and NT. In order to have your wisdom teeth removed, you must have a valid medical reason. It would be wise to speak to someone at your state's local clinic about getting financial assistance and go to a bulk billing dentist - otherwise, the expense of tooth extraction is high without private health insurance coverage.

Can you get reimbursed for wisdom teeth removal? The answer is... It depends.

Is cosmetic dentistry covered by Medicare?

Teeth whitening done in the chair can tend to be quite expensive, but varies depending on the practice. For an option that is safe, proven to work and much more cost-effective, whitening products from Pearlii are made in line with the Australian Dental Association safety standards. Best of all, for every Home Teeth Whitening Kit sold, Pearlii will give back 50% of its profits to provide free dental surgery for people who can’t afford or access a dentist.

Services Australia: Child Dental Benefits Schedule

Services Australia: Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Scheme

Here at Pearlii, we understand that the onset of a throbbing toothache is hardly the ideal time to start researching Medicare’s dental coverage. The system is confusing, and despite the fact that Medicare is considered a ‘universal health insurance scheme for all Australians’, reimbursements for dental care are limited.  So, to help you out, we've done the heavy-lifting for you. We’ve gathered all the information on the different benefit groups, and created a quick explainer on what the coverage provides. We’ve also looked into whether cosmetic treatments are ever covered, plus we explore what happens if you need your wisdom teeth removed.   The ABC’s of Medicare in Australia  Watch the full interview here: What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? With Dr Jalal Khan Providing dental care means taking care of your teeth and mouth by a dentist, dental specialist, or other health professional. Dental services in Australia are provided by either public or private dentists. The cost of dental care varies widely from dentist to dentist. The reason for this is that dentists do not have standard fees as doctors have. The cost of dental care differs depending on where the dentist practices and what methods he or she employs.  Does Medicare cover dental care?  Watch the full interview here: What is the biggest barrier to good oral health? With Dr Jalal Khan Bottom line: unlike other types of health care, the Australian government does not cover the costs of most dental services. In most cases, patients are responsible for paying dental expenses. However, Medicare pays for some essential dental services for those children and adults who qualify.  The Child Dental Benefits Schedule Under this plan, children ages 2 to 17 receive $1,000 over two calendar years for basic dental services, including x-rays, dental check-ups, fillings, cleaning, root canals, and extractions. The plan excludes orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, as well as hospital dentistry. There are no charges for the majority of services because they are bulk billed. Families who are already receiving other government benefits are eligible to receive the payments. Visit the Services Australia website to determine if your child qualifies.  Public dental services State and territory dental plans cover both children and adults. In addition to emergency treatment, patients may be referred to specialist services such as orthodontic treatment at hospitals. In general, adults who wish to benefit from the program should have a Health Care Card or Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card, but the rules vary according to where they live. State and territory dental services differ, and waiting times can be greater than a year for a visit with a dentist. State and territory dental services differ, and waiting times can be greater than a year for a visit with a dentist. For information about what health services are available in your area, visit the website of your state or territory health department. Under the Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Scheme, those less than 28 years of age are eligible for Medicare benefits associated with some dental treatments and surgeries.  What dental services are covered by Medicare? The following services should be available to Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for dental coverage: Diagnostic If a dentist needs to perform a particular procedure in order to diagnose an issue, this would usually be covered. Preventative Up to a certain limit, procedures such as scaling and cleaning are covered for eligible groups. This is because it prevents costly, more serious dental problems from occurring in the future. Oral Surgery The cost of surgery on the mouth or teeth is sometimes covered. In many cases, though, the dentist will refer you to the hospital to be treated there.   Does Medicare pay for wisdom tooth removal? Here's the million dollar question.. Can you get reimbursed for wisdom teeth removal? The answer is... It depends. Wisdom teeth removal may be partially covered by some states, including NSW, WA, and NT. In order to have your wisdom teeth removed, you must have a valid medical reason. It would be wise to speak to someone at your state's local clinic about getting financial assistance and go to a bulk billing dentist - otherwise, the expense of tooth extraction is high without private health insurance coverage. Can you get reimbursed for wisdom teeth removal? The answer is... It depends.  Is cosmetic dentistry covered by Medicare? Keen to correct a crooked smile? Medicare will help cover severe cases causing major health concerns, but not if the braces are needed for purely aesthetic reasons. Teeth whitening also falls under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry, and therefore is not reimbursed by Medicare.  Teeth whitening done in the chair can tend to be quite expensive, but varies depending on the practice. For an option that is safe, proven to work and much more cost-effective, whitening products from Pearlii are made in line with the Australian Dental Association safety standards. Best of all, for every Home Teeth Whitening Kit sold, Pearlii will give back 50% of its profits to provide free dental surgery for people who can’t afford or access a dentist.  Now that you have graduated from Pearlii's Medicare information session, you should be well-equipped with all the information you need about dental coverage.   What are you waiting for? Add that whitening kit to your cart now!

Having trouble understanding the mysteries of Medicare? Let’s break it down for you. 