Over 22,500 Australians accessed superannuation for urgent dental care last year, amid concerns over misuse for non-essential treatments.

Early access to superannuation for urgent dental care in Australia has helped over 22,500 people access more than $526 million last year, a surge linked to pandemic-era awareness and rising treatment costs. The Australian Tax Office permits withdrawals for severe pain, life-threatening conditions, or serious illness, not cosmetic procedures. While the system serves as a vital safety net for those unable to afford care, concerns grow over unethical promotion of super access for non-essential treatments like veneers or whitening. The Australian Dental Association urges dentists to provide full disclosure and avoid promoting super use, stressing that patients should seek independent financial advice.