Medicare - Child Dental Benefits Scheme
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Medicare for Kids at the Dentist
The Medicare Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS) is a government-funded initiative designed to improve oral health outcomes of children by eliminating the financial obstacle of taking your child to the dentist. This scheme extends its coverage to children aged 0-18. Notably, your child will continue to benefit from coverage throughout the entire calendar year in which they turn 18, extending until the 31st of December of that same year. For instance, if your child turns 18 in June, they will remain covered until the conclusion of that year.
How does the Child Dental Benefits Scheme Work?
The scheme provides a fixed amount that is available to be used for 2 calendar years, with a slight annual increase. For 2026, the limit is set at $1,158. Eligibility, determined by the government, involves means-testing based on your Family income and estimates. We bulk bill all eligible children under the scheme, making it more convenient for families.
Is my child covered under Medicare?
You will receive a letter from the government stating eligibility. If you find yourself uncertain about your eligibility, feel free to contact us at (03) 8899 6331, and we will be happy to verify your status through the government portal on your behalf. Your eligibility for the CDBS is subject to potential changes determined by your income and estimates, as managed by Services Australia. It is important to note that these changes are not in our control.
What does CDBS cover?
The CDBS funds are available for a range of general dentistry services, including check-ups, cleanings, fluoride applications, intra-oral X-rays, fillings, pulp therapies, stainless steel crowns, and extractions.
Procedures not covered include, but are not limited to, mouthguards, extra-oral x rays, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and some complex dental procedures.
Important things to consider
Once the CDBS balance is depleted, any subsequent appointments must be privately paid for or covered by Private Health Insurance (if applicable). Additional CDBS balances become accessible only after the two-year cycle has reset. For instance, if your child’s initial appointment with a full CDBS balance occurred in March 2024, the reset of the CDBS balance will occur on the 1st of January 2026 (if eligible).
Other Payment Plans
A smile is for life, so it is definitely worth your while to plan for the future. Here at Cranbourne North Dental, we offer various payment plans to suit your lifestyle. Click the button below to find out more about our other payment plan solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dental costs can I claim through Medicare?
You can only claim dental services through Medicare if you are eligible for specific programs such as the CDBS for children, or in situations where dental care is provided under a hospital admission.
Do I have to pay anything upfront for CDBS treatment?
If your child is eligible, the cost of eligible services is bulk-billed through Medicare, meaning you usually won’t have any out-of-pocket expenses.
Can adults use Medicare at dental clinics?
Unfortunately there is not Medicare Scheme for adults, unless you qualify for DVA or the Cleft Lip & Palate Scheme.
Medicare usually does not cover dental care for adults, unless it is part of a hospital treatment. Some states and territories may offer limited dental services through the public system, but waiting lists can be long.
