Costs of Providing Culturally Safe Dental Care for Indigenous People of Australia: A Follow-Up Intervention Study

Objectives: To establish the monetary costs of supporting the Indigenous community in Australia to receive culturally safe dental care. Methods: Financial data was analysed from a follow-up dental intervention study involving 173 Indigenous Australians—164 adults and nine children—who received fully funded dental treatment through private dental clinics. Participants were seen at baseline and 12-month follow-up for an oral health assessment, conducted at a location of their preference. Following the initial assessment, participants were referred to a private dental practice near their residence or of their choosing, with preference given to a practice that employed an Indigenous dentist. The study team provided additional support as required, such as transportation vouchers to attend appointments, assistance with bookings, providing reminders, and checking in regarding treatment experiences. Results: Most participants were employed and primarily resided in metropolitan and inner regional locations of South Australia. The total expenditure for private dental treatment was nearly $300 000 AUD, with a median per capita cost of $1332 AUD (IQR: $727–$2311). The largest proportion of funding (42.3%) was spent on restorative treatments, both overall and within each age group. Participants who reported they would have considerable difficulty paying a $100 dental bill had a higher median cost of treatment ($1384, IQR: $1073–$2691) than those who reported they would have less difficulty ($961, IQR: $633–$2001). Following dental treatment, participants reported that both their general and oral health improved. Conclusions: The dental expenditure and volume of care required by participants in this study demonstrate that unmet dental needs persist in the Indigenous community, which can be addressed by reducing cultural, structural, and financial barriers.