Switching insurance policies can save hundreds at dentist, experts say

Thousands of Australians on private health insurance could be missing out on large rebates every time they go to the dentist, but experts say switching policies could save them hundreds.

Many private healthcare providers, like Medibank and HBF, offer better rebates on newer plans, meaning customers don't have to switch providers to save money at the dentist.

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On Medibank's "Special Extras" policy, the rebate for a tooth extraction is $49, while the new My Choice Extras Move 60 plan offers a $113 rebate for the same procedure.

Similarly, HBF's "Saver Extras" plan offers an $81 rebate for a tooth extraction, while its new FLEX 50 policy offers a 50 per cent return.

Experts from Compare Club, an online comparison tool, say older insurance policies are not up to scratch with today's cost of medical treatment.

"These policies people were on are basically frozen in time, they were probably quite a good deal 10 years ago but they are certainly not now," Compare Club's head of research Kate Brown said.

"With around 40 per cent health insurance premiums rising again this month, now it's a good time to review your policy and see what else is out there, offering better value for money."

"If you don't challenge your insurer to find you the best deal, it's quite likely you're not going to be on one."

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Retiree Carl Santilli, 70, switched his gold cover for a new provider, saving $10 a month and hundreds in rebates.

"Quite often the cheapest ones don't give you the best value, so it's a balance between your premiums and your rebates as far as what you might get back," Carl Santilli said.

"Those companies you might be with will probably provide new or their newer clients with better rebates than they will give you as a loyal member."

Most insurance companies offer a fixed rebate on dental services, despite increasing premiums.