The ability to access superannuation early to pay for critical dental treatment is an important part of our health safety net.

For Robert*, a tradesman in the prime of his working life, poor oral health stemming from childhood led to chronic pain associated with severely broken and worn-away teeth.

Extensive dental treatment including repair and replacement of ten teeth over several years was necessary to remove his pain and maintain function fundamental to his quality of life including speaking and eating.

Despite saving up to pay for the treatment, when a work accident changed Robert's circumstances, he chose to access his super.

The trade-off between relieving his dental pain and reducing his future retirement savings made sense. The decision was not taken lightly, but he had no o

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