The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is an Australian Government initiative that provides essential dental treatments and preventive care for eligible children aged 2-17 years. As Beecroft Smiles, we are excited to embrace this valuable program and help our young patients access the benefits it offers.

CDBS Eligibility Age and Criteria

To be eligible for the CDBS, a child must meet the following criteria:

- Be eligible for Medicare (Re. [1][2][3])

- Be aged 2-17 years at any point during the calendar year (Ref. [1][2][3][4])

- Receive a relevant Australian Government payment, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A, at any point during the calendar year (Ref. [1][2][3][4])

The eligibility for the child dental benefits schedule is assessed by Services Australia at the start of each calendar year, and newly eligible children are routinely checked throughout the year. Eligible children will receive a notification of their eligibility, either by post or electronically through MyGov, which can be presented to the dental practice during their appointment. (Ref. [1][2][3])

Child Dental Benefits Schedule Benefit Cap and Utilisation

The CDBS provides a benefit cap of $1,095 per eligible child over two consecutive calendar years. (Ref. [1][2][4][5]) This means that the child can use the full $1,095 in the first year, if needed, or spread it out over the two-year period. (Ref. [1][4])

If the entire benefit cap is not used in the first year, the remaining balance can be carried over to the following year, as long as the child remains eligible. (Ref. [1][4]) However, any unused balance after the second year will not be carried forward or refunded. (Ref. [4])

Child Dental Benefits Schedule Covered Services

The CDBS covers a range of basic dental services, including:

- Routine check-ups and cleanings

- X-rays

- Fillings

- Fissure sealing

- Root canal therapy

- Extractions (Ref. [1][4])

It’s important to note that the CDBS does not cover more complex or cosmetic dental work, such as orthodontic treatment or dental services provided in a hospital setting. (Ref. [1][4])

Accessing the Child Dental Benefits Schedule

Beecroft Smiles is committed to helping our young patients access the benefits of the CDBS. We can assist in the following ways:

Eligibility Checking: Our staff can check a child’s eligibility and remaining benefit balance by contacting Medicare through the Health Professional Online Services or by calling the dedicated CDBS helpline. (Ref.[1][3][4])

Bulk Billing: We offer bulk billing for CDBS-eligible services, meaning that the patient will not have any out-of-pocket expenses as long as the remaining benefit balance can cover the cost of the treatment. (Ref.[4][5])

Appointment Scheduling: We will work with our patients to schedule appointments that make the most efficient use of their CDBS benefits, ensuring that they can maximise the value they receive. (Ref.[4][5])

Ongoing Communication: We will keep our patients informed about their CDBS eligibility and remaining balance, and provide guidance on how to best utilise the benefits. (Ref.[4][5])

Advantages of the CDBS

The CDBS offers several advantages for both children and their families for their dental health:

Improved Oral Health: By providing access to essential dental services, the CDBS can help improve the overall oral health of eligible children, reducing the risk of future dental problems. (Ref.[4])

Cost Savings: The CDBS covers up to $1,095 worth of basic dental services over two years, which can significantly reduce the financial burden on families. (Ref.[1][2][4][5])

Flexibility: The ability to use the full benefit in the first year or spread it out over two years allows families to manage their dental care needs more effectively. [(Ref.1][4])

Accessibility: The CDBS can be accessed at both public and private dental clinics, providing families with greater choice and convenience. [1]

How can I check if my child is eligible for the CDBS

You can check your child’s eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) in several ways:

*Online through your Medicare account:

- Sign in to your myGov account
- Select “Medicare“
- Go to “History and statements“
- Choose “Child Dental Benefits Schedule“

*Call the Medicare general enquiries line at 132 011

*Use Health Professional Online Services (for dental practitioners)

*Wait for an automatic notification:

- Services Australia assesses eligibility at the start of each calendar year and routinely checks for newly eligible children
- If your child is eligible, you’ll receive a notification either by post or electronically through myGov

It’s important to note that you don’t need to apply or register for the CDBS. If your child is eligible, you will be automatically notified. Eligibility is based on the child’s age (0-17 years), Medicare eligibility, and receipt of a qualifying government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A.

Remember to check eligibility before booking a dental appointment and inform the dental practice that you plan to use the CDBS for your child’s treatment

What documents do I need to check my child's eligibility online?

To check your child’s eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) online, you don’t need any specific documents. However, you will need access to your Medicare online account through myGov. Here’s what you need to do:

Sign in to your myGov account.
Select Medicare from your linked services.
Navigate to “History and statements“.
Choose “Child Dental Benefits Schedule“.

This process allows you to check your child’s eligibility status without the need for additional documentation. The system automatically assesses eligibility based on the information already in your Medicare and Centrelink records.It’s important to note that you don’t need to apply or register for the CDBS separately. If your child is eligible, you will be automatically notified, typically at the beginning of each calendar year.If you’re unable to access your online account or prefer an alternative method, you can also call the Medicare general enquiries line to check your child’s eligibility

Will my dentist need any specific information to check eligibility ?

Your dentist can check your child’s eligibility for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) without needing much specific information from you. However, there are a few key pieces of information that will be helpful:

Medicare card: Bring your child’s Medicare card to the appointment. The dentist will need your child’s Medicare number to verify eligibility.
Child’s age: The dentist will need to know your child’s age, as eligibility is for children aged 0-17 years.
Basic personal information: The dentist may need your child’s name and date of birth to accurately check eligibility through their system.

Dentists can check a child’s eligibility online through Health Professional Online Services or by calling Services Australia. Many dental offices can quickly confirm the status of available benefits using just the Medicare number.When making the appointment, it’s a good idea to mention that you plan to use the CDBS. This allows the dental office to prepare the necessary forms and check eligibility in advance.