the Australian Dental Association
Written by the Australian Dental Association, Apr 13, 2023
Fact Checked

If you are a veteran, and hold a Gold Card or White Card with the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA), you are eligible to receive treatment from any dentist registered to provide services through the Medicare Benefits Scheme. Not all dentists provide services through DVA programs so it's best to check with your dentist before making an appointment.

What you will receive

Gold Cardholders will usually have their dental treatments paid for, provided the dentist establishes a clinical need for the treatment. White card holders receive services in line with their accepted disability. Depending on the types of treatment you need, the dentist will either be able to perform the work immediately and without approval from the DVA, or they will need to seek approval from the department before proceeding.

Dental procedures such as examinations, x-rays, fillings and dentures can often be done without delay, while some procedures such as surgical treatments, dental implants and crowns will have to wait until the DVA provides approval.

Annual treatment limits

Keep in mind that while many standard treatments don't have an annual monetary limit attached to them, there are some that do. Your dentist will be able to tell you what falls into this category and how much money you have available to spend each year on dental treatment.

Some veterans are exempt from these limits:

  • Ex-prisoners of war.
  • White Card holders (specific conditions) with a related accepted disability.
  • White Card holders (specific conditions) with a diagnosed malignant tumour that affects your teeth, mouth or gums.

Enquiries

If you have any further enquiries about the DVA dental care program, contact options include:

  • Metropolitan callers, phone 133 254
  • Regional callers, phone 1800 555 254
  • Email [email protected]