For many Australians, a confident smile represents more than just good looks. It’s self-esteem, dignity, confidence, and quality of life. But for hundreds of former patients of Supercare Dental and Cosmetics Tuggerah and Kotara, that dream has turned into a devastating nightmare. Now in voluntary administration, the NSW-based chain of dental clinics has left some patients toothless, in pain, and out of pocket — some having lost tens of thousands of dollars from their super – impacting their retirement.
SuperDrained for Unfinished Dental Work
Supercare Dental and Cosmetics marketed dental implants and cosmetic veneers as “potentially affordable through your super”, helping patients apply for the ATO’s compassionate release of superannuation. But what wasn’t explained was that this option is only intended for necessary medical treatment — not cosmetic work — and often involves high tax penalties.
One patient withdrew over $48,000 from her super for a full set of dental implants. Three years later, she is still toothless, living in pain, and forced to glue together broken temporary dentures herself.
Misleading Advertising and Questionable Ethics
Supercare Dental and Cosmetics’s promotions gave the impression that accessing super for cosmetic dental work was routine and safe. But former staff now describe the company’s tactics as “predatory”, aggressively upselling expensive procedures to financially vulnerable patients, many of whom had no other means to pay.
Reports have revealed that the company traded while insolvent, with liabilities exceeding $5.7 million. Hundreds of patients, including at clinics in Kotara, Tuggerah, Penrith, Corrimal, and Wilton, paid over $2 million for treatments they may never receive.
Dentists Left Unpaid and Powerless
It wasn’t just patients who were let down. Dentists across Supercare Dental and Cosmetics clinics have walked away, some owed tens of thousands in unpaid wages. Many were also misled about the company’s financial health, only realising the extent of the collapse once it was too late to help their patients.
The Legal and Emotional Toll
Some patients were told their only option was to sue the individual dentist, despite having contacted and paid Supercare Dental and Cosmetics directly. Others were offered to redo treatment — but only if they paid again. Many have now reported their cases to regulators, including the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission.
In situations like this, patients need expert legal help. When corporate dental chains collapse, it’s everyday Australians who are left suffering — with permanent physical and emotional damage.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
At The Law Office of Conrad Curry, we’re committed to holding negligent providers accountable. If you’ve been misled, mistreated, or left in pain by a dental practitioner or clinic, we can help you explore your options for compensation.
The Law Office of Conrad Curry presently acts for a number of the victims of Supercare Dental and Cosmetics’ predatory practises. If you, or someone you know, has been affected by Supercare Dental and Cosmetics, we would be pleased to meet with you to discuss your options on a no-win, no-fee basis.
Click below to complete a questionnaire that will help us assess whether your matter may be suitable for a medical negligence claim in NSW, or contact our friendly team on (02) 4050 0330 to make an appointment with one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors.
DISCLAIMER
This article reflects the current law at the time of publication. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The actual decisions in each case are summarised for general understanding. For specific legal guidance in relation to your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional.
