When getting costly treatment, shop around inside and outside your area. Prices may vary considerably from dentist to dentist and it's worth getting a range of phone quotes and even one or two different consultations before committing to treatment.

If you or your spouse have been paying PRSI, find out from the Treatment Benefit Section of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs whether you qualify for dental benefit. Phone 074 25566, 01 874 8444 or your local Social Welfare Office. If you do qualify you will be entitled to some free or subsidised treatment.

It may be worthwhile availing of cheaper treatment costs in Northern Ireland. Some Northern dentists located near the Border or main train stations advertise in the Golden Pages and cater specifically for patients from the Republic. Bear in mind that the 25 per cent exchange rate differential and travel costs when assessing quotes.

Remember to include dental treatment in the Med 1 form when preparing tax relief claims. Some of the more expensive treatments qualify for tax relief.

Make sure to follow up on any dental or orthodontic treatment required by primary school children, while it is still free, i.e. under the age of 14.