The Child Dental Benefits Schedule, often called CDBS, helps eligible children access basic dental services. One of the most confusing parts for parents is the two-year benefit cycle and how the available balance works.
This guide explains the cycle in simple terms, what parents should check before booking, and how Lara Dental Prime can help eligible families use CDBS for children’s dental care.
What is CDBS?
CDBS is an Australian Government program that helps cover part or all of the cost of certain basic dental services for eligible children.
It is for children aged 0 to 17 years who meet eligibility rules. Eligibility can depend on age, Medicare, and whether the child, parent, carer or guardian receives certain government payments.
How much can CDBS cover?
For 2026, Services Australia states that CDBS covers up to $1,158 for each eligible child over two calendar years for basic dental services.
This cap can change over time, so it is always best to check the current amount with Services Australia or ask the clinic to check your child’s available balance before treatment.
How does the two-year benefit cycle work?
The CDBS benefit is set over two consecutive calendar years. If a child becomes eligible in a particular year, that year is generally treated as the first year of the two-year period.
For example, if 2026 is year one for your child, the available benefit may be used across 2026 and 2027, subject to eligibility and available balance.
Does unused CDBS money carry over forever?
No. The benefit does not carry over indefinitely. It is attached to the relevant two-year cycle. If it is not used within that cycle, it may not be available later.
This is why it is useful to check your child’s eligibility and available balance before delaying dental care.
What happens if the balance has already been used?
If your child has already used part of their CDBS balance at another dental clinic or public dental service, only the remaining balance may be available.
Before treatment, the dental clinic can usually check the available balance and explain if there may be any out-of-pocket cost.
What dental services may CDBS cover?
CDBS may cover basic dental services such as:
- Dental check-ups
- X-rays where needed
- Professional cleaning
- Fissure sealing
- Fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Extractions
The treatment must be clinically suitable and within the available CDBS balance.
What does CDBS not cover?
CDBS does not cover every type of dental treatment. It does not cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic dental treatment, or dental services provided in hospital.
If your child needs treatment that is not covered, the dentist can explain other options and any expected costs.
How can parents check eligibility?
Parents can check CDBS eligibility through Services Australia, Medicare online services, the Express Plus Medicare app, or by asking the dental clinic to check eligibility and available balance before the appointment.
Please bring your child’s Medicare details and any relevant concession or family payment information if requested.
Can Lara Dental Prime bulk bill CDBS?
For eligible children, Lara Dental Prime can bulk bill basic dental services under CDBS, subject to eligibility, clinical suitability and available CDBS balance.
If your child is not eligible for CDBS, ask us about our Kids Check & Clean offer from $79.
Book a CDBS dentist appointment in Lara
If you want to check whether your child can use CDBS, call Lara Dental Prime and our team can guide you on what information is needed before booking.
Learn more about kids dental and CDBS in Lara, what CDBS may cover, or call 03 5282 2222.