CATEGORY 16 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST INNOVATIONS Dental payment plans allow patients to spread the cost of treatment into smaller, manageable instalments rather than paying a lump sum. Options vary. Some plans are short-term and interest-free for immediate treatment, such as Fund My Dental or Afterpay. Others are longer-term direct debit plans for larger treatments, such as DentiCare or Humm. Some dentists also offer in-house payment plans for longterm patients. There are many advantages to using the right payment plan in the right way when running or owning a dental practice. With the Super era possibly coming to an end, a simple payment plan that is easy for the clinic and the patient will be important. As the CEO of Fund My Dental I still advise patients to use savings or borrow from friends or family where possible. Most plans come with some form of cost. But there are benefits too. Advantages of payment plans – Practices A tool to increase treatment acceptance Financing options, especially no-interest plans, can lift case acceptance. When patients can convert “too expensive” into a monthly payment, they are more likely to agree to recommended care, including complex or elective treatment. Cash flow and administrative efficiency When a third-party provider is used, the practice often receives payment quickly. This reduces risk and lowers the admin involved in chasing overdue accounts. Billing, payments, and credit checks are handled externally. Integrated finance options inside practice software also make day-to-day work easier. Patient-centric benefits From the patient’s view, payment plans make care more accessible. When cost is less of a barrier, they are more willing to go ahead with recommended treatment instead of delaying it. There is also a rise in buy-now-paylater options in dental clinics, which are attractive for smaller or cosmetic treatments because of simple checks and repayment structures. Advantages of payment plans – Patients X Breaks a large cost into smaller payments X Makes treatment possible sooner X Keeps budgets predictable with set payments X Helps avoid high-interest credit cards X May support choosing the best treatment instead of the cheapest X Reduces financial stress and makes the decision feel easier Risks and downsides of payment plans – Practices X Third-party finance companies may take a merchant fee X In-house plans carry credit risk and admin work X There are ethical concerns when finance companies influence the dentist-patient relationship X Payment plans should never dictate clinical decision-making Risks and downsides of payment plans – Patients X High interest if the promotional period ends or a payment is missed X Possible impact on credit score X Fees such as late fees, setup fees, or annual fees X Missed payments may delay treatment in phased plans X Total cost can be higher once interest or fees are included X Limited flexibility after signing the contract X Risk of overspending on larger treatment plans A well-built payment plan for the right patient can support both the practice and the patient. At Fund My Dental we see patients taking loans for every type of procedure. General dentistry, implants, aligners, injectables, and oral appliances are common. One area often overlooked is using a payment plan to support safer, more effective teeth whitening outcomes. Specific advantages of payment plans for teeth whitening 1. Allows patients to start now Instead of saving for months, patients can begin whitening straight away and pay over time. This is useful when a brighter smile is needed before an event. 2. Reduces financial stress A simple repayment cycle feels easier than paying the full fee upfront. 3. Supports safer treatment choices Patients often choose cheaper store products because of cost. Payment plans make dentist-led whitening more accessible. When whitening is part of a structured care plan, payment options help patients choose the supervised treatment you recommend. Many practices pair payment plans with a dentist-supervised take-home system to support predictable outcomes and a better patient experience. X Why Payment Plans Matter in Modern Dentistry Insights from Dr Kris Thyer, Dentist and Founder of Fund My Dental If you would like to talk through how Fund My Dental plans might support your patients, call 1800 356 779 or email hello@fundmydental.com.au
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