Good oral health is vital for a child’s overall well-being. Healthy teeth not only improve confidence but also prevent the risk of serious dental complications later in life. However, the cost of dental care can deter families from scheduling regular visits. To address this challenge, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides financial support for essential dental services to children across Australia, ensuring no child is left behind when it comes to oral health.
This blog will take an in-depth look at the CDBS, covering its benefits, eligible services, how to maximise its use, and why early and preventative care is crucial.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a Medicare-funded programme aimed at making dental care accessible and affordable for eligible children aged 2 to 17 years. With up to $1,095 available over two consecutive calendar years, the programme is designed to cover a wide range of essential dental treatments for families who may otherwise struggle to afford routine care.
Key Features of the CDBS:
- Eligibility: Open to children who receive Family Tax Benefit A or other qualifying government payments, provided they hold a valid Medicare card.
- Benefit Cap: Up to $1,095 can be claimed over two years, covering both preventative and restorative dental care.
- Coverage: Focuses on essential treatments such as check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and fillings. However, it does not cover orthodontic or cosmetic services.
- Accessibility: Services can be bulk-billed, ensuring minimal to no out-of-pocket costs for eligible families.
By easing the financial burden of dental care, the CDBS empowers families to prioritise their children’s oral health without worrying about affordability.
What Dental Services Are Covered Under the CDBS?
The CDBS focuses on ensuring that children receive essential dental care to maintain oral health and address potential issues early. Services are comprehensive yet specific, ensuring that families get the most out of the programme.
CDBS-Covered Services:
- Comprehensive Dental Examinations: These allow dentist everton hills to assess your child’s oral health, identify potential concerns, and develop a treatment plan.
- Professional Teeth Cleaning: Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria prevents cavities and gum disease.
- Fluoride Treatments: Strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of decay.
- X-rays: Helps detect hidden issues such as decay, infection, or improper tooth alignment.
- Fissure Sealants: Thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities.
- Fillings: Repairs damage caused by cavities with aesthetic, white fillings.
- Root Canal Therapy: Saves severely infected teeth by removing bacteria from the pulp.
- Extractions: Removes teeth that are severely decayed or impacted.
What is Not Covered?
While the CDBS offers extensive coverage, it excludes:
- Orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners.
- Cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening or veneers.
- Services provided in hospital settings.
CDBS Coverage Summary Table
| Service Type | Details | Covered by CDBS? |
| Preventative care | Check-ups, cleanings, fluoride, X-rays | Yes |
| Restorative treatments | Fillings, fissure sealants, root canals, extractions | Yes |
| Cosmetic procedures | Teeth whitening, veneers, braces | No |
| Orthodontic treatments | Braces and aligners | No |
Why is Preventative Dentistry So Important for Children?
Preventative care forms the backbone of a child’s oral health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings significantly reduce the likelihood of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Children who grow up visiting the dentist regularly are more likely to maintain their oral health into adulthood.
Benefits of Preventative Care:
- Early Detection: Identifies issues such as cavities, gum disease, or misaligned teeth before they worsen.
- Growth Monitoring: Tracks the development of teeth and jaws, ensuring timely interventions if needed.
- Healthy Habits: Encourages children to adopt proper brushing, flossing, and dietary practices.
- Cost Savings: Preventing problems is far less expensive than treating severe conditions later.
Interesting Fact:
Studies show that 50% of Australian children experience tooth decay by the age of six. Regular dental visits supported by the CDBS can significantly lower this statistic by addressing issues early and educating families about oral hygiene.
When Should Your Child Have Their First Dental Visit?
The first dental visit is a milestone in your child’s healthcare journey. At Ferny Hills Dental, we recommend scheduling your child’s initial appointment between 18 and 24 months old. This early introduction normalises dental visits and sets the stage for a lifetime of positive oral health experiences.
Tips for a Successful First Visit:
- Schedule appointments when your child is well-rested and comfortable.
- Avoid using phrases like “it won’t hurt,” which may cause unnecessary anxiety.
- Make the experience fun by treating the visit as an adventure.
- Allow your child to observe your own check-up beforehand to familiarise them with the dental environment.
Early visits are not just about treatment—they are an opportunity to educate parents on habits such as brushing, flossing, and monitoring thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting behaviours.
How Does the CDBS Make Dental Care Affordable?
One of the standout features of the CDBS is its affordability. For eligible families, many services can be bulk-billed, meaning there are no out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, practices like Ferny Hills Dental often provide gap-free preventative care for those with private health insurance.
CDBS Benefits Breakdown Table
| Service | Frequency Allowed | Purpose |
| Comprehensive dental check-up | Every 6 months | Detect decay, monitor oral health |
| Cleanings | Every 6 months | Remove plaque and tartar |
| Fluoride treatment | Every 6 months | Strengthen teeth against decay |
| Fillings | As required | Treat cavities |
| X-rays | As required | Diagnose hidden dental issues |
How Can Parents Support Good Oral Hygiene at Home?
While dental visits are essential, parents play a critical role in maintaining their child’s oral health between appointments.
Tips for Supporting Oral Hygiene:
- Brushing and Flossing: Ensure children brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.
- Balanced Diet: Limit sugary snacks and beverages, and encourage water and calcium-rich foods.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule appointments every six months to ensure early detection of issues.
- Positive Reinforcement: Praise children for their efforts in maintaining good oral hygiene.
Why Choose Ferny Hills Dental for Your Child’s Oral Health?
At Ferny Hills Dental, we are passionate about making dentistry enjoyable for children. Our experienced team is committed to creating a fun, welcoming environment where your child feels safe and cared for. As a bulk-billing provider under the CDBS, we make essential dental care accessible to all families.
We also offer gap-free preventative services for those with private health insurance, ensuring that regular check-ups and cleanings remain affordable. Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or routine care, Ferny Hills Dental is here to help your family build a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.
Book an appointment today at (07) 3351 2731 and give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile.
References
- Australian Government – Child Dental Benefits Schedule
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – Oral Health in Children
- Raising Children Network – Dental Care for Children
FAQs
1. What is the maximum benefit provided by the CDBS?
The CDBS offers up to $1,095 in benefits over two consecutive calendar years for eligible children.
2. What treatments are excluded from the CDBS?
Orthodontic and cosmetic treatments, such as braces or teeth whitening, are not covered under the CDBS.
3. How can I find out if my child is eligible for the CDBS?
You can check eligibility through Services Australia or by contacting Ferny Hills Dental for assistance.
4. Is there a limit to the number of dental visits covered?
Yes, the benefit cap of $1,095 applies. Within this, most preventative and restorative treatments are covered up to their allowable limits.
5. Does my child need private health insurance to access CDBS benefits?
No, the CDBS is a Medicare programme and does not require private health insurance.
6. What happens if the $1,095 benefit is exceeded?
Any costs beyond the benefit cap will need to be paid out of pocket or through private health insurance if applicable.