At Granite Belt Dental, we understand the importance of accessible and affordable dental care for children. That’s why we proudly participate in the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), a government initiative designed to support and promote the dental health of Australian children.The Child Dental Benefits Schedule provides financial assistance for basic dental services to children and teenagers, making it easier for families to access essential dental care.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The primary purpose of the CDBS is to support the oral health of children and teenagers by providing access to necessary dental services. Good dental health is foundational to overall health, and early intervention can prevent more severe dental issues later in life. The CDBS ensures that children from eligible families can receive regular dental check-ups and treatments, promoting better dental hygiene and healthier futures.
Overview of the Financial Support Provided
- up to $1,052 if 2023 is year one of the 2 calendar year period
- up to $1,095 if 2024 is year one of the 2 calendar year period
The cap amount is indexed yearly on 1 January. The increase in cap amount will only apply to a child or teenager who gets their first eligible service in that year.
Services Covered by CDBS
- Dental examinations
- X-rays
- Professional cleaning
- Fissure sealing
- Fillings
- Root canals
- Extractions
Granite Belt Dental is committed to helping families utilise the CDBS to provide the above comprehensive and quality dental care for their children.
Who Can Get the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
To be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, your child must meet the following criteria:
- The child must be between 2 and 17 years old for at least one day of the calendar year.
- The child must be eligible for Medicare.
- The child must be part of a family receiving certain government benefits, such as Family Tax Benefit, for at least part of the calendar year.
You can be either the child’s:
- parent, carer or guardian
- approved care organisation.
Checking if Your Child is Eligible
Services Australian will send you a letter if your child is eligible, otherwise you can check eligibility online via the services australia site or fill out our Granite Belt payment eligibility form. Alternatively, you can log into your Medicare online account through myGov or Call Medicare directly on 132 011 to speak with a representative.
How to Claim the Child Dental Benefits Schedule
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the eligibility criteria. You can check this by visiting the Services Australia website, logging into your Medicare online account through myGov, or calling Medicare directly at 132 011.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with your dentist. Let them know that you intend to use the CDBS for your child's dental services.
- Provide Medicare Details: During your dental visit, provide your Medicare card details to the dental clinic staff. They will verify your child's eligibility and discuss the available benefits.
- Consent Form: You will be asked to sign a consent form authorising the use of CDBS funds for the dental services provided. This form ensures that you are aware of the costs and the services covered.
- Receive Treatment: Your child will receive the necessary dental treatment covered under the CDBS. The dental clinic will manage the claim process directly with Medicare, so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.
Information Needed to Claim the Benefits
To claim the benefits under the CDBS, you will need the following information:
- Your child’s Medicare number and individual reference number (IRN) on the card.
- Signed consent form provided by the dental clinic, authorising the use of CDBS funds for the dental services.
- Basic personal details such as your child’s full name and date of birth, as well as your contact information.
Child Dental Benefits Schedule 2024 Updates
As of 2024, the CDBS continues to provide essential dental services for eligible children. It is important to stay updated with any changes to the program by visiting the official Services Australia website or contacting your dental provider. Granite Belt Dental remains committed to supporting families through the CDBS, ensuring children receive the best possible dental care.
