The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is an Australian Government program designed to provide eligible children with access to basic dental services. Established to improve oral health and promote preventative dental care among children aged 0 to 17 years, the CDBS plays a crucial role in fostering long-term dental health habits. Administered by Services Australia on behalf of the Department of Health, the program is available to families in Brisbane, Queensland, and across the nation.
Child Dental Benefits Scheme Eligibility
Age Requirements
- Children must be aged between 0 and 17 years for at least one day of the calendar year to qualify for the CDBS.
Government Benefit Requirements
Eligibility for the CDBS is linked to specific Australian Government payments. The child or their family must receive at least one of the following benefits at any point in the calendar year:
- Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Youth Allowance
- ABSTUDY
- Austudy
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Parenting Payment
- Special Benefit
- Double Orphan Pension
- Veteran’s Children Education Scheme
- Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Education and Training Scheme (if the child is 16 years or older)
Residency Requirements
- The child must be eligible for Medicare, which generally includes Australian residents and certain visa holders.
Services Covered Under Child Dental Benefits Scheme
The CDBS covers a range of essential dental services aimed at maintaining and improving oral health.
- Check-ups: Routine examinations to assess dental health.
- Cleaning: Removal of plaque and tartar to maintain oral hygiene.
- X-rays: Imaging to identify hidden dental issues.
- Root Canals: Treatment for infections inside the tooth.
- Fissure Sealing: Protective coatings applied to prevent tooth decay.
- Extractions: Removal of teeth when necessary.
- Fillings: Repairs for cavities using suitable materials.
Services Not Covered
Certain dental services are excluded from the CDBS:
- Orthodontic Treatments: Procedures like braces to correct alignment.
- Cosmetic Dental Procedures: Treatments such as teeth whitening and veneers.
- Services Provided in Hospital: Any dental services requiring hospitalisation are not covered.
Benefit Cap and Period
- Total Benefit Cap: Up to $1,095 per eligible child over a two-calendar-year period.
- The benefit cap resets every two years, beginning from the year the child first receives an eligible service.
- Unused benefits can be used in the second year if the child remains eligible, but any remaining balance cannot be used after the two-year period ends.
How to Access the Benefits
Finding a Dental Provider
In Brisbane, QLD, families can access CDBS services through:
- Public Dental Clinics: Operated by Queensland Health.
- Private Dental Practitioners: Many private dentists accept CDBS patients.
Note: Not all dentists provide services under the CDBS. It’s important to confirm participation when booking an appointment.
Consent Requirements
Before receiving services under the CDBS, Informed Financial Consent is mandatory. Dentists are required to:
- Discuss Treatment Options and Costs: Provide clear explanations of proposed services.
- Provide a Written Treatment Plan: Outline the services and associated costs.
- Explain Impact on Benefit Cap: Inform how treatments will affect the remaining CDBS balance.
How to Claim Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
When accessing dental services under the CDBS, the claiming process is typically straightforward and is often handled by the dental provider.
Bulk Billing
- Process: The dentist bills Medicare directly for the services provided.
- Advantage: No upfront payment is required from you.
- Consent Form: You’ll need to sign a consent form at the dental clinic, authorizing the dentist to claim on your behalf.
Patient Billing
- Process: If the dentist does not offer bulk billing, you may need to pay for the services upfront.
- Claiming a Refund: You can then claim a rebate from Medicare. Here’s how:
- Online:
- Log in to your Medicare online account through MyGov.
- Select ‘Make a Claim’ and follow the prompts to submit your claim electronically.
- Express Plus Medicare Mobile App:
- Download and log in to the app.
- Select ‘Claim’ and follow the instructions to submit your claim.
- By Post:
- Complete a Medicare Claim form available on the Services Australia website.
- Post it to the address on the form.
- In Person:
- Visit a Medicare Service Centre with your itemized receipts and completed claim form.
- Online:
Important Points When Claiming
- Itemised Receipts: Ensure you receive itemised receipts from your dentist, detailing each service provided.
- Claiming Deadline: Claims must be submitted within two years from the date of service.
- Tracking Your Claim: You can track the progress of your claim through your Medicare online account or the mobile app.
- Payment of Benefits: Medicare will deposit the benefit directly into your nominated bank account.
Important Considerations
Out-of-Pocket Costs
- If the total cost of services exceeds the $1,095 benefit cap, the patient is responsible for the additional amount.
- Some dentists may charge fees above the Medicare benefit schedule, leading to out-of-pocket expenses.
How to Check Child Dental Benefit Balance?
To verify eligibility and check the remaining balance:
- Contact Medicare: Call 132 011.
- Online Access: Log into MyGov and navigate to Medicare services.
- In-Person: Visit a Medicare Service Centre.
Impact on Other Benefits
- Utilizing the CDBS does not affect eligibility for other government benefits.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule provides vital support for families in Brisbane, Queensland, ensuring children have access to essential dental care. By understanding eligibility criteria, covered services, and how to access benefits, families can make the most of this program to promote their children’s oral health.
For the most current information, please consult the official websites of Services Australia and the Department of Health.
