What Is CDBS?
The Child Dental Benefit Schedule (CDBS) was introduced by the government in January 2014. The aim of this benefit schedule is to improve children’s dental health by providing funds to cover essential dental services for eligible children aged between two and seventeen years old. The fund covers the cost of essential preventative and restorative treatments up to a value of $1000 over a two consecutive year period. Any funds remaining at the end of each two-year period will not be carried over.
How Could CDBS Help My Child?
The services covered by CDBS help prevent any dental diseases, or wherever possible, will restore teeth that have been damaged due to infection or trauma. 1300SMILES will be able to work with you and your child to devise a suitable preventative dental treatment plan within the scope of the services covered.
What Type of Treatments Are Covered?
Preventative treatments covered by CDBS include your child’s regular dental examinations, cleanings and x-rays and fissure sealants. Restorative treatments covered include fillings, root canal treatments and tooth extractions if we are unable to save a tooth.
Is your child currently enrolled in this scheme? Contact us to make sure they get the maximum benefits from their funds.
Who Is Eligible For CDBS?
Children aged between two and seventeen years old are able to be assessed for eligibility at the beginning of each calendar year for the entirety of the coming year. To be eligible, a child must qualify for Medicare, and they must be a part of a family who receives an applicable government payment, for example the Family Tax Benefit Part A.
How Can I Find Out If My Child Qualifies?
The most straightforward way is to access your Medicare account, either online at my.gov.au or you can call the Medicare General Enquiries line on 132 011. The next step is to contact 1300SMILES and let us know your child qualifies. We can then schedule an appointment for your child to discuss suitable treatment options for them, based on their dental health. We will also discuss any associated costs of these services, and you will need to sign a consent form before we provide any treatment. All treatment provided under CDBS is bulk-billed so you will not be out of pocket.
