The Child Dental Benefits Schedule – A Guide for Parents
As parents, we all want the best for our children’s health, including that they have a healthy smile. In Australia, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a valuable program designed to support families in managing their children’s dental needs. If you have kids, here’s what you need to know about the CDBS and how it can benefit your family.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is an Australian Government initiative that provides financial support for basic dental services for children aged 0-17 years. The program is designed to help families access essential dental care without the financial burden, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to maintain good oral health.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible, your child must:
- Be aged 0 to 17 years.
- Receive, or be part of a family receiving, certain government benefits such as Family Tax Benefit Part A.
It’s important to note that eligibility is assessed at the beginning of each calendar year, so even if your child was not eligible in previous years, it’s worth checking again each year – the team at Jacaranda Dental can help.
What dental services are covered?
The CDBS covers a range of basic dental services, including:
- Examinations: Regular dental check-ups to monitor and maintain oral health.
- X-rays: To detect issues that are not visible during a standard examination.
- Cleaning: Professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Fissure sealing: Application of a protective coating to the grooves of the teeth to prevent decay.
- Fillings: Treatment for cavities and tooth decay.
- Root canals: Treatment for infections inside the tooth.
- Extractions: Removal of teeth that are severely damaged or decayed.
Treatment including orthodontics, cosmetic dental work, and services provided in a hospital setting are not covered under the CDBS.
How much is covered?
The CDBS provides a benefit of up to $1,095 over two consecutive calendar years for each eligible child. If the full amount is not used within the two-year period, it does not carry over to the next period.
How to Access CDBS Services
- Check Eligibility: Use the online eligibility checker on the Services Australia website or contact Medicare to confirm your child’s eligibility.
- Make an Appointment at Jacaranda Dental: Schedule a dental appointment with our team
- Consent Form: You will need to sign a consent form allowing the dentist to provide services under the CDBS.
- Treatment Plan: Discuss the proposed treatment plan with our team, including costs and how they will be covered by the CDBS.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a fantastic resource for Australian families, helping to make essential dental care more accessible and affordable. By taking advantage of this program, you can ensure that your child’s teeth remain healthy and strong.
Don’t wait—check your child’s eligibility today with Jacaranda Dental and schedule that all-important dental check-up.