CDBS Children's Dental Care at Absolute Dental
Absolute Dental welcomes families who may be eligible to use the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, often called CDBS. This Medicare program can help cover part or all of the cost of selected basic dental services for eligible children.
CDBS is not a private health fund. Eligibility, available balance and the services covered are set by Services Australia. Our team can help check whether your child may be eligible and explain the fees for any recommended dental care before treatment begins.
Helping Eligible Families Access Basic Dental Care
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is designed to help eligible families access basic dental care for children aged 0 to 17. Services Australia currently lists the benefit cap as up to $1,158 for each eligible child over two calendar years, with the cap indexed yearly.
The benefit can help with services such as check-ups, X-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canal treatment and extractions. There are item and time restrictions, and CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic dental treatment or dental services provided in a hospital.
Using CDBS for Your Child's Visit
Book your child's visit
Contact Absolute Dental to book a dental appointment and let our team know that you would like to use CDBS. We can note this before your visit and help explain what to bring.
Check your child's CDBS balance
You can check your child's eligibility and available CDBS balance through your Medicare online account linked to myGov. Our team may also be able to help check eligibility details at the appointment.
Come in for the dental assessment
Your child's dentist will assess their teeth, gums and mouth, then explain any recommended treatment. Care recommendations are based on your child's oral health needs and clinical assessment.
Review fees and consent
Before CDBS services are provided, you will be told the cost of the proposed treatment and whether CDBS is expected to cover it. A consent form is usually required, and you should only sign if you understand and agree to the services and costs.
Use the benefit for covered services
If your child is eligible and has enough balance available, CDBS may be used for covered basic dental services. If a service is not covered, or the available balance is not enough, our team will explain this before you decide whether to proceed.
How the CDBS Benefit Works
CDBS is administered through Medicare and Services Australia. Eligible children receive a capped amount for basic dental services over two consecutive calendar years. The period starts at the beginning of the calendar year in which the child becomes eligible and receives their first eligible dental service.
The full available amount may be used in the first calendar year, but this can leave no remaining CDBS funds for the second year. If the full amount is not used in the first year, the remaining balance may be available in the second year if the child is still eligible. Unused funds do not carry over after the two-year period ends.
Who May Be Eligible for CDBS?
Your child may be eligible for CDBS if they are eligible for Medicare, are aged 0 to 17 for at least one day in the calendar year, and you or they receive an eligible government payment at least once during that calendar year.
You do not usually need to apply or register. Services Australia checks eligibility and sends a letter when a child is eligible. If your Medicare online account is linked to myGov, you can also check eligibility and balance details online under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule section.
What Basic Dental Services Are Covered?
CDBS can help pay for basic dental services, including dental examinations, X-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canal treatment and extractions. Your dentist will explain which services are clinically suitable for your child and whether the proposed item is likely to be claimable under CDBS.
You cannot claim both CDBS and a private health insurer benefit for the same dental service. If your family also has private health insurance, our team can help you understand the claiming pathway before treatment so you can make an informed choice.
Ready to Use CDBS for Your Child's Care?
If you think your child may be eligible for CDBS, let us know when booking and bring your Medicare details to the appointment. Our team can help check eligibility where possible and explain any costs or consent requirements before treatment starts.