Is your child eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)? Get access to essential dental care and keep their smile healthy without the stress of high costs.
As a parent, your child’s health is your top priority, and that includes their smile. Navigating the costs of dental care can sometimes feel overwhelming, but did you know that the Australian Government offers a program to help? The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is designed to support families by providing access to essential dental services for eligible children, ensuring that cost doesn’t stand in the way of a healthy, happy smile.
At Woden Dental Care, we believe every child deserves quality dental care in a friendly and professional environment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how the CDBS works, who is eligible, and how we can help you maximize these benefits for your child.
Give your child the gift of a healthy smile! The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) helps eligible families access essential dental care with government support. Learn who qualifies, what’s covered, and how to make the most of your child’s dental benefits at Woden Dental Care.
What is the CDBS?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government-funded initiative that provides financial assistance for basic dental services. It is not a separate insurance card; instead, it is linked to your child’s Medicare record.
The program provides up to $1,158 per eligible child to cover the costs of dental care over a two-calendar-year period. At Woden Dental Care, we are proud to bulk bill these services, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs for you for covered treatments.
Is My Child Eligible?
Eligibility for the CDBS is determined by Services Australia and is assessed each year. Generally, a child is eligible if they:
- Are aged 0 to 17 years for at least one day in the calendar year.
- Are eligible for Medicare.
- Receive, or are part of a family that receives, certain Australian Government payments
You don’t need to apply for the program—if you meet the criteria, you are typically notified by the government. If you aren’t sure of your status, we can help you check it quickly and easily at our clinic.
What Services Are Covered?
The CDBS is focused on preventive and restorative care to maintain your child’s oral health. Covered services typically include:
- Comprehensive check-ups and examinations
- Professional cleaning and scaling
- Digital X-rays
- Fissure sealing (to protect molars)
- Fillings
- Root canal treatments
- Extractions
Please note: The CDBS does not cover orthodontic work (such as braces), cosmetic dental procedures (like teeth whitening), or any dental services provided in a hospital setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does the CDBS balance reset every year?
A: No, the benefit cap is available over a rolling two-calendar-year period. If you do not use the full $1,158 amount within these two years, any remaining balance will expire and cannot be carried over into the next period.
Q2. Can I use the CDBS for braces or cosmetic work?
A: No, the CDBS is strictly intended for basic, essential dental services to maintain oral health. It does not cover specialist orthodontic procedures like braces, nor does it cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening.
Q3. Do I need a referral to use the CDBS?
A: No, you do not need a formal referral to visit a private dentist like Woden Dental Care under the CDBS. Simply contact our clinic, let our staff know you would like to use the CDBS, and we will handle the verification and billing for you.
Q4 What happens if I don't receive a notification letter?
A: You do not need a physical letter to access your benefits. Eligibility can be verified electronically by our practice using your Medicare card. If you suspect your child is eligible but haven’t heard from the government, feel free to give us a call, and we can check your status.
Give Your Child a Healthy Start
Taking care of your child’s dental health today sets the stage for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles. Whether it’s their first “Happy Visit” or a routine check-up, the team at Woden Dental Care is here to provide a comfortable, stress-free experience.
Ready to book? Give us a call today or schedule your appointment online to utilize your child’s CDBS benefits with our friendly team.
