Children’s dental care is important for healthy teeth, gums and oral development. For some families, the cost of regular dental visits can make it harder to book check-ups early. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule may help eligible children access basic dental services.
If you live in Lara or nearby suburbs, this guide explains CDBS in simple terms. It is general information only, and eligibility should always be checked through Medicare, Services Australia, or your dental provider before treatment.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule, commonly known as CDBS, is an Australian Government program that may help eligible children access basic dental services.
It is designed to support children’s oral health by helping with the cost of selected dental treatments. The program does not cover every type of dental treatment, and limits apply.
Important: CDBS eligibility and available balance can vary from child to child. It is always best to check your child’s eligibility and remaining balance before starting treatment.
Who may be eligible for CDBS?
According to Services Australia, a child may be eligible for CDBS when they meet the required conditions for that calendar year. These generally include:
- The child is aged 0 to 17 years for at least one day of the calendar year
- The child is eligible for Medicare
- The child, parent, carer or guardian receives an eligible Australian Government payment at least once during that calendar year
Families usually do not need to apply separately. If your child is eligible, Services Australia may notify you. You may also be able to check eligibility through your Medicare online account, myGov, or by contacting Medicare.
How much does CDBS cover?
The current CDBS cap is up to $1,158 for each eligible child over 2 consecutive calendar years. The cap amount is indexed yearly on 1 January.
The two-year period generally starts at the beginning of the calendar year in which the child becomes eligible and receives their first eligible dental service.
If the full amount is used in the first year, there may be no balance left for the second year. If only part of the cap is used in the first year, the remaining balance may be available in the second year if the child is still eligible.
Simple example
If an eligible child uses part of their CDBS balance for a check-up, X-rays and cleaning, the remaining balance may be available for other eligible dental services within the same two-year period, provided they remain eligible and have balance available.
What dental services can CDBS cover?
CDBS is generally for basic dental services. Depending on clinical need, eligibility and available balance, it may cover services such as:
- Dental check-ups
- X-rays
- Cleaning
- Fissure sealing
- Fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Extractions
Your dentist can explain which services may be suitable for your child after an individual assessment.
What is not covered by CDBS?
CDBS does not cover every type of dental treatment. Services Australia states that CDBS does not cover:
- Orthodontic dental work
- Cosmetic dental work
- Dental services provided in a hospital
This means treatments such as braces, clear aligners, cosmetic whitening and veneers are not covered under CDBS.
Can CDBS be used at Lara Dental Prime?
Lara Dental Prime provides children’s dental care and can help families understand whether CDBS may apply to their child’s visit.
Before treatment, our team can help check relevant details and explain any costs, limits or available balance where possible.
You can learn more about our children’s dental services here: Kids Dental & CDBS in Lara.
How do I check my child’s CDBS eligibility?
You may be able to check your child’s CDBS eligibility and balance through your Medicare online account linked to myGov. You can also contact Medicare or ask the dental clinic to help guide you on what information may be needed before your child’s appointment.
When booking, it is helpful to mention that you would like to use CDBS for your child’s appointment. Please bring your Medicare details and any relevant information about your child’s eligibility.
Why regular dental visits matter for children
Regular dental visits can help identify early signs of tooth decay, gum irritation, bite concerns, or oral hygiene issues. For children, early prevention and simple advice can often make dental visits more comfortable and reduce the chance of problems becoming more complex.
A children’s dental visit may include a gentle check-up, cleaning if suitable, oral hygiene advice, diet guidance, and discussion of any treatment options if needed.
Frequently asked questions about CDBS
Is CDBS the same as private health insurance?
No. CDBS is a government program for eligible children. Private health insurance is separate. Your child’s eligibility and CDBS balance should be checked before treatment.
Can CDBS be used for braces or clear aligners?
No. CDBS does not cover orthodontic dental work, including braces and clear aligners.
Can the CDBS balance be shared between siblings?
No. The CDBS benefit cap applies to each eligible child individually and cannot be shared with family members.
Do I need to use the full CDBS amount in one visit?
Not necessarily. The balance can be used for eligible services over the relevant two-calendar-year period, subject to eligibility, available balance and clinical need.
What should I do before booking?
Check your child’s eligibility and remaining balance through Medicare or myGov where possible. You can also call Lara Dental Prime and let our team know you would like to book a children’s dental appointment using CDBS.
General information only: This article does not replace personalised dental advice. CDBS eligibility, available balance and covered services should be confirmed before treatment. Treatment suitability depends on an individual dental assessment.