Dental loans are a type of personal loan. You can use a dental loan facility to pay for cosmetic dentistry procedures and specialised dentistry services. They are specifically designed to cover the cost of dental procedures that are not covered by regular dental insurance and typically don't require collateral but often have higher interest rates.
How to compare cosmetic dental surgery loans
When comparing dental loans, consider the following factors.
- Interest rate. Compare the interest rates of different lenders to ensure you get the best deal. Remember that the interest rate can vary depending on your credit score and other factors.
- Repayment terms. Check each loan's repayment terms, including the length of the loan, the monthly payment amount, and any early payment penalties.
- Fees. Look for any fees associated with the dental loan such as origination fees or early repayment fees.
- Loan amount. Check the maximum loan amount available to ensure it covers the full cost of your procedure. You also want to check whether that is within your eligibility.
- Eligibility requirements. Do you meet the lender's eligibility requirements, such as credit score, income, and employment status?
- Lender reputation. Check the lender's reputation by reading reviews, their accreditation, and regulatory compliance.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Access to funds. Help cover the cost of dental and cosmetic dental procedures that may improve your self esteem and quality of life.
- More affordable than other options. Getting a loan for dental or cosmetic dental work may be cheaper than putting it on a credit card.
- Unsecured. Typically, like other personal loans, dental and cosmetic dental loans are unsecured, although there are secured options too.
- Flexible repayment terms. Configure the loan to suit your budget.
Cons
- Interest rates and fees. Dental loans for cosmetic dental work may come with higher interest rates and fees compared to other types of loans. Can you actually afford the repayments?
- Long-term debt. Depending on the amount borrowed and repayment terms, taking out a dental loan can result in long-term debt that may impact your financial situation in the future. Is that something you are prepared for?
- Approval requirements. Is your credit and income enough to get approved?
What you need to apply for a dental loan
Eligibility requirements for dental loans can vary between lenders. Typically you will be asked for:
- Personal information. Most lenders will only consider applications from permanent resident or citizen of New Zealand who are at least 18 and have a good credit score. Additionally, you may need to furnish proof of identification.
- Financial details. Details of your assets, debts, and liabilities may be required as well as evidence of your income, such as payslips or tax returns.
FAQs
Are dental loans regulated by law?
Yes, in New Zealand, all lenders must comply with the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA).
Can I get a loan for any dental procedure?
Most lenders will provide loans for common dental procedures like fillings, root canals, dental crowns, dental bridges, dental veneers, dentures and other services that replace damaged and missing teeth.
How long does it take to get approved for a dental surgery loan?
Depending on the lender, the approval process for a dental loan can take a few days or longer.
