Is My Child Eligible for Free Dental Care? Understanding the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) in Australia
Taking kids to the dentist can be pricey, but the good news is your child might be eligible for free dental care through the government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
Not many Aussie families know about this handy scheme that can save you a good chunk of money on your kid’s dental care. If you’re wondering whether your child qualifies or what’s included, we’ve got you covered.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government program run by Medicare that covers the cost of basic dental services for eligible children. If your child qualifies, they can access up to $1,132 in dental treatments over two calendar years: all bulk-billed at most participating dental clinics.
It’s all about making sure Aussie kids get the dental care they need, without families stressing about the cost.
What Dental Services Are Included?
The CDBS takes care of most everyday dental treatments kids might need, like:
- Check-ups
- Cleans
- X-rays
- Fissure sealants
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions
Not included: orthodontics (like braces), cosmetic procedures (like whitening), and hospital-based dental work.
Who’s Eligible for CDBS?
Here’s what your child needs to qualify:
✔️ Aged 0 to 17 years for at least one day in the calendar year
✔️ Eligible for Medicare
✔️ Receiving (or part of a family receiving) a relevant government payment, such as:
- Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Youth Allowance
- Special Benefit
- or similar support
If you’re getting one of these payments, there’s a pretty good chance your child qualifies.
How to check? The easiest way is to log into MyGov, ring Medicare, or ask your local dentist; they’ll often check eligibility for you on the spot.
How Long Do You Have to Use It?
The $1,132 benefit lasts for two calendar years, starting from the year you first use the scheme.
So, let’s say your child has their first appointment under CDBS in 2025, you’ll have until the end of 2026 to use the full amount. If you don’t use it within that time, the remaining balance expires.
You don’t have to spend it all at once, and you can spread it across visits as needed.
Do I Need to Pay Anything?
If your dentist bulk-bills under CDBS, you won’t pay anything at all, just bring your Medicare card and you’re set.
But not every clinic bulk-bills, so it’s smart to ask first. Some dentists may charge more than the scheduled CDBS fee, in which case you might have to pay the gap. Always double-check before treatment begins.
What If My Child’s Not Eligible?
If your child doesn’t qualify for CDBS, don’t worry, there are other options. Many public dental clinics offer low-cost or free care for kids whose parents have a Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card.
Some states also have school dental programs or other community services that support kids’ oral health.
Final Thoughts
The CDBS is an awesome way to help Aussie families take care of their kids’ teeth without the financial stress. With bulk-billed check-ups, fillings, and more, there’s no reason to delay that next visit to the dentist.
Come to us at Endeavour Hills Dental Clinic. We proudly bulk-bill eligible children under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, and we’re more than happy to check your child’s eligibility for you, right here in the clinic.
Book your appointment today and let us help keep those little smiles happy and healthy, without breaking the bank.
