Why does Australia need a Seniors’ Dental Benefits Schedule now?

As Australia’s population ages, the need for a government-funded Seniors’ Dental Benefits Schedule (SDBS) has never been more urgent. Millions of older Australians struggle with untreated dental issues, impacting their overall health and quality of life. 

The Australian Dental Association has long championed the introduction of a SDBS to provide affordable care to older Australians who need it most. With the 2025 federal election fast approaching, the ADA is calling on the government to finally step up and take action. 

By implementing the SDBS now, the government can prevent avoidable health complications, ease pressure on the healthcare system, and ensure that seniors receive the essential dental care they deserve and need for their long-term physical and mental well-being and quality of life. The dental profession and the public alike have a crucial role to play in supporting this push for overdue reform.

The statistics are confronting: Australians over 65 have, on average, lost 14 teeth, and approximately 25% avoid certain foods due to dental issues. With 16% of the population currently over 65—a figure projected to double by 2062—the ADA emphasises the urgency of implementing targeted and sustainable funding for this vulnerable group of Australians.

ADA President Dr. Chris Sanzaro has been active in the media throughout February, highlighting the importance of supporting for one of Australia’s most vulnerable cohorts at this election. 

“By narrowing our focus to the critical issue of improved health outcomes for our seniors, we increase the likelihood of securing immediate action from policymakers while continuing to advocate for broader reforms in the future,” he said. “The ADA has a mission to improve the oral and general health of the public, and I urge our members to get behind this campaign.”

The Parliamentary Budget Office estimates the annual cost of the SDBS at $1.143 billion for 2.8 million eligible seniors in 2025-26, increasing to $1.263 billion in 2026-27. In contrast, providing dental services to all Australians would cost between $5.6 billion and $12bn a year, making the SDBS a far more financially viable option.

Beyond the SDBS, the ADA is advocating for the integration of oral health assessments into Medicare Benefits Schedule GP health checks for over 75s. Consumer organisations have reported to the 2024 Senate Inquiry into the Provision of and Access to Dental Care that the lack of affordable dental treatment is a significant source of distress among the elderly, particularly pensioners and part-pensioners who can’t afford private health insurance.

Dr. Sanzaro underscores the broader implications of oral health, noting, "unlike Medicare, which covers GP and hospital-related services, the mouth is seen by the government as separate from the rest of the body. A complete overhaul of the way dentistry for older Australians is funded is long overdue.”

The federal election presents an opportunity for policymakers to prioritise seniors’ oral health and implement solutions that ensure equitable healthcare for Australia's aging population.

The ADA continues to advocate for a range of issues on behalf of its members outside the federal election:

• Oral Health: emphasising the importance of preventive care and early intervention to reduce oral diseases. We conduct public awareness campaigns, such as Dental Health Week, to educate Australians on maintaining good oral hygiene practices. 

• Access to care: Recognising disparities in dental health services, we advocate for improved access, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.  

• Policy and regulation: Engagement with policymakers to influence legislation affecting the dental profession and public oral health. Input on issues like private health insurance reforms and funding for public dental services. 

• Professional standards: We are committed to maintaining high standards within the profession, offering resources, training and guidelines on infection control, continuing professional development, and compliance with advertising regulations. 

• General public health: The ADA addresses broader public health concerns for cohorts across the societal landscape, such as advocating for policies to reduce sugar consumption to combat dental caries and other related health issues.

It’s Time to Act, for ADA Members

The ADA’s call for a Seniors Dental Benefits Schedule isn’t simply about policy—it’s also about upholding our commitment to improving health outcomes for all Australians, which speaks directly to our mission. 

As dental professionals, ADA members witness firsthand the devastating impact of untreated oral disease on all Australians, but particularly on seniors. Chronic pain, difficulty eating and speaking, and the subsequent decline in overall health and well-being are some dire outcomes for older Australians suffering poor oral health. 

By supporting this campaign, members can help drive real change which ensures older Australians receive the care they need. A government-funded scheme would not only improve access to treatment but also reinforce the vital role of dentistry within the broader healthcare system.

We encourage ADA members to drive awareness of the Time to Act campaign by:

• Engaging with local MPs – to raise awareness of the issue and advocate for government action.

• Educating patients and the community – as informing seniors about the importance of oral health strengthens public demand for change.

• Sharing the campaign – as amplifying the ADA’s message through social media and professional networks can help build momentum.

With an announcement of an election date by Mr Albanese imminent, now is the time for the dental profession to unite and push for meaningful reform. By standing together, ADA members can help secure a future where seniors no longer must choose between their health and financial hardship.