As a parent, making sure your child is as healthy as possible is understandably one of your highest priorities.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) was introduced by the federal government to make that task a little easier for families that qualify.
The CDBS helps you keep your kids’ teeth in great shape by providing eligible children with access to a benefit of $1000 for dental services over a two calendar year period.
This gives each child benefits for a range of services including examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals and extractions.
What the CDBS doesn’t cover, however, are orthodontic (the straightening of crooked teeth), cosmetic dental procedures (the restoration or replacement of damaged or missing teeth), or any work that might need to be done in a hospital. If you aren’t sure what’s covered, just ask your dentist.
2018 updates
The guide to the Child Dental Benefits Schedule was updated to version seven on January 1, 2018. This includes an updated metallic restoration service list and new items for provisional dentures. Minor changes have also been made to diagnostic, preventative and prosthodontic items.
This advertising feature was brought to you by the following businesses. Click the links to learn more:
Your child’s eligibility
The CDBS continues to be means tested. Your child is deemed eligible for the CDBS by the Department of Human Services if at some point of the year:
- They’re aged between two and 17
- They qualify for Medicare
- You receive a relevant Australian Government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A or Parenting payment
How to use your $1000 allocation
To ensure that you’re aware of the costs upfront, your dentist should explain all probable expenses and get your consent in writing before treatment begins. You can use your $1000 allocation all at once if you need to, or spread your spending out over the two calendar years.
To confirm your eligibility for the CDBS call 132 011 or visit the Department of Human Services website.