The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is often called CDBS for short. The Australian Government introduced it to help children access dental care. The CDBS allows eligible children to access general dental treatment at both public and private dental clinics. At most dental clinics, this treatment will be bulk-billed.
Who can use the CDBS?
You will automatically get a letter to let you know if your child is eligible for the CDBS. You can also see if they are eligible in your myGov account. myGov is the government services website that lets you see your Medicare information online.
Children are eligible if:
- they are under 18 years of age
- they are eligible for Medicare
- the parent or child receives a payment from the government that makes them eligible.
If you get a government payment, see if it is listed below.
- ABSTUDY
- Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Parenting Payment
- Special Benefit
- Youth Allowance
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs education allowances under the:
- Veterans’ Children Education Scheme (if aged 16–17)
- Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Education and Training Scheme (if aged 16–17)
It is important to check that your child is eligible for the CDBS before booking their dental appointment. If your child is eligible and you are booking an appointment, make sure you check that your dental practice provides treatment under the CDBS. Letting the dental practice know that you plan to use the CDBS for your child’s treatment helps them prepare for your visit.
How much money can you access?
$1,095 worth of dental services is available over 2 calendar years. Once all the money is used, you will need to wait for the new 2 year cover period to start to access more.
Dental services covered by the CDBS include:
- examinations
- x-rays
- teeth cleaning
- fissure sealants
- fillings
- tooth removal
- root canal treatment.
The CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic dental work or dental services in a hospital.
Your dentist will let you know what treatments can be paid for by the CDBS.
To know how much money your child or children can access under the CDBS, contact Medicare, or check your myGov account. The team at your dental clinic may also be able to help you find this information.
Who can provide treatment?
Dentists in private dental clinics and the public dental clinics can provide treatment under the CDBS.
Many dental practices will bulk-bill the treatment. This means that you will not have to pay any money out of your own pocket.
Find out more
To find out more about the CDBS and if your child is eligible:
- call Medicare on 132 011
- visit the Department of Human Services website.
CDBS information direct from Services Australia
CDBS resources prepared created by ADA SA
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