What is nib's First Choice Dental network?
Looking after your teeth shouldn't feel complicated. Whether you're due for a check-up or looking for a new dentist, nib's First Choice dental network can help you get the most out of your Extras cover and make dental care easier to navigate.
What is the First Choice dental network?
Our First Choice dental network is a group of recognised dental providers that offer nib members agreed rates on selected services and treatments.
What are the benefits of the First Choice dental network?
Cost can be a real barrier to looking after your teeth. In the ABS Patient Experience Survey 2024-25, one in four Australians who needed to see a dental professional said they delayed or skipped care in the previous 12 months. Of those who delayed or skipped care, 16% said cost was a reason.
For eligible nib members, choosing a dentist in the First Choice network can help you get more value from your Extras cover. Depending on your level of cover, you'll get a percentage of the provider's fee back on eligible services, up to your annual and service limits. First Choice providers also charge agreed rates* for selected services and treatments. Agreed rates are set prices nib and the provider have agreed on, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs and make your Extras limits last longer.
Better yet, eligible members can get 100% back on preventative dental check-ups^ with First Choice dentists who offer No Gap dental check-ups.
Waiting periods, annual limits and other conditions may apply, so it's a good idea to check your level of cover and remaining limits before your appointment. Head to your member account or use the nib App.
Ready to book? Use our Find a Provider tool to find a First Choice dentist near you.
What dental treatments can I get?
The type of dental treatment you can receive depends on your needs.
For routine dental care, eligible members can get 100% back on preventative check-ups^, including examinations, scale and clean, fluoride treatment and diagnostics like bitewing and panoramic x-rays when clinically required.
For more complex dental care, such as fillings, root canal therapy and minor dental surgery, you can access agreed rates* when you visit a First Choice network provider.
How do I find a First Choice dentist?
Before you book, it’s worth checking your level of cover and annual limits. Login into your member account online or via the nib App to check what you're covered for.
Once you've checked you’re covered, you can search for a First Choice network dentist near you using our Find a Provider tool.
Do I have to see a First Choice network dentist?
You can visit any recognised dental provider in Australia#. Your level of cover and annual limits stay the same, but how your benefit is calculated may differ depending on whether you visit a First Choice dental provider.
If you visit a non-First Choice network dental provider, you'll receive a set dollar amount (a set benefit) towards your treatment. Your out-of-pocket cost will depend on the difference between what your provider charges and the set benefit nib pays. As each provider sets their own prices, your out-of-pocket costs may vary depending on who you see and what treatment you receive.
If you visit a First Choice network dental provider, you’ll get a percentage of the provider’s fee back on eligible services. You’ll also have access to agreed rates* and No Gap preventative dental^ at participating clinics, giving you a clearer idea of what you might pay before you book.
How can I check if my provider is a First Choice provider?
Before your next appointment, it's worth checking whether your dentist is part of the First Choice network using the Find a Provider tool. Simply search by location or provider name to see who's nearby. You can also ask your provider directly if they're part of nib's network at the time of booking. We're adding more First Choice providers all the time, so it's worth checking back if your current provider isn't in the network yet.
Can I access the First Choice network for services other than dental?
You sure can! Our First Choice network includes physiotherapy, optical providers, hearing and mental health services. Learn more about the First Choice network and how it can help you get the most from your Extras cover.
Not an nib member but want to access the First Choice network and more member benefits? Get a quote online in minutes or contact us to discuss cover options to suit you.
The information in this article is general in nature and doesn't take your personal circumstances into account. Before making decisions about your health cover or treatment, consider seeking advice that's appropriate for your situation.
Please note: The information throughout this article serves as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.
*nib First Choice providers (i.e. our network) offer competitive fees for many commonly claimed treatments and consultations. These fees are reviewed at least annually and are subject to change. Always check nib.com.au/find-a-provider before booking to see if your provider participates or simply ask your provider if they are part of nib’s network at the time of booking. Providers occasionally leave the nib First Choice network so it’s important to check before booking to avoid disappointment. Annual limits, service limits, waiting periods and T&Cs apply.
^Payment by nib of dental benefits is subject to serving relevant waiting periods, annual limits and service limits. Check your cover by visiting your member account or call 13 16 42. The dental check-up covers an examination or consultation (011 to 015), diagnostics (022, 037) scale and clean (114, 115) or removal of plaque (111), fluoride treatment (121) as deemed necessary and appropriate in the clinical opinion of the dentist (dentures not included). The services provided will be deducted from your annual limits and/or service limits. The No Gap offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or government scheme, nor substitutable or redeemable for cash and is only available with dentists who have a No Gap First Choice network provider agreement with nib.
#Benefits are only paid for services from nib recognised providers. A recognised provider is someone who provides a health service, like a dentist, optometrist, remedial massage therapist or physiotherapist who meet the following criteria: (i) They must work in a private practice; and (ii) They must have professional qualifications recognised by nib. To find a provider in nib’s network of healthcare professionals nib.com.au/find-a-provider.