Australians waste dental benefits by skipping no-gap cover

Using a no-gap provider twice a year could save individuals $124.78 annually.

Nearly half of Australians with extras health insurance (49%) continue to visit their usual dentist even if it means paying out-of-pocket costs, according to new research by Money.com.au.

The nationally representative survey found that only 25% of policyholders have switched to a no-gap dental provider to avoid gap fees. 

Meanwhile, 13% said their extras policy doesn’t include no-gap dental, and 12% were unsure.

No-gap dental allows policyholders to access fully covered preventive treatments, such as check-ups and cleans, at selected providers. 

Despite its availability in many mid-tier and comprehensive policies, the research shows many insured Australians are not taking advantage of the benefit.

According to APRA data, the average dental visit costs $132.74, with insurers covering just $70.35, leaving a $62.39 gap per visit. 

Using a no-gap provider twice a year could save individuals $124.78 annually, or nearly $500 for a family of four.

The report also found that Baby Boomers were the most likely generation to stick with their dentist despite the cost (56%), followed by Gen Z (49%), Gen X (47%), and Millennials (45%).

The survey was conducted in July 2025 with a nationally representative sample of 1,000 Australians.