General information only. This article explains dental topics in general terms and isn’t a substitute for personal advice. Everyone’s oral health and dental needs are different, so please see a dentist for advice that applies to you.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is an Australian Government program, administered through Medicare, that helps pay for basic dental care for eligible children and teenagers. Many families are eligible without realising it.
Who is eligible
Children aged 0 to 17 are eligible for the CDBS if they are eligible for Medicare and they, or their parent or guardian, receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or another eligible Australian Government payment at some time during the calendar year. Eligibility is means-tested and is checked each calendar year.
What it covers
The CDBS covers a range of basic dental services, including:
- Examinations (check-ups).
- X-rays.
- Cleaning, fluoride treatment and fissure sealants.
- Fillings.
- Root canal treatment.
- Extractions.
What it does not cover
The CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, or cosmetic dental treatment. It also does not cover dental services provided in a hospital.
How the capped benefit works
Each eligible child has a capped total benefit that can be used over two consecutive calendar years. The two-year period begins in the calendar year of the child’s first CDBS service. Each service has a set benefit amount, and these are deducted from the child’s total until it is used or the two-year period ends. The cap amount is set by the Australian Government and is indexed. Services Australia can confirm a child’s current balance.
Bulk billing and consent
Dental practices can either bulk bill CDBS services, so there is no out-of-pocket cost for covered services up to the cap, or charge a fee with the family claiming the benefit. Before treatment, the dental practice checks the child’s eligibility and remaining balance, and a parent or guardian signs a consent form. If any treatment is not covered by the CDBS, this is explained beforehand.
At White Pearl Dental Care, the CDBS is bulk billed for eligible children. A Medicare card is needed for the visit.
Common questions
How do I know if my child is eligible?
Services Australia can confirm eligibility through your Medicare online account, the Express Plus Medicare app or by phone. The dental practice can also check eligibility before treatment.
Does the CDBS cover braces?
No. Orthodontic treatment, including braces and clear aligners, is not covered by the CDBS.
What happens when the cap is reached?
Once the capped total is used, further treatment within that two-year period is not covered by the CDBS. A private health fund may contribute, depending on the policy.
Can my child use the CDBS and a health fund?
A service claimed under the CDBS cannot also be claimed through a private health fund. Services not covered by the CDBS, or those after the cap is reached, may be claimable through a health fund, depending on the policy.
More information
Eligibility and cap details can change, so the Services Australia website has the most current information. More information about children’s care at the practice: children’s dentistry.