The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government program that provides eligible children with up to $1,000+ in dental benefits over two years. It’s designed to make essential dental care more accessible for families—but many parents miss out simply because they haven’t checked if their child qualifies. At SIA Dental, we regularly support families with children’s dental care in Melbourne, helping parents make the most of available benefits.
What Is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The CDBS is a Medicare-funded program that covers basic dental services for eligible children across Australia. It’s aimed at improving early oral health and encouraging regular dental visits from a young age.
For official details, parents can refer to Services Australia, which administers the program.
What Dental Services Are Covered?
CDBS covers a range of essential dental treatments, including:
- Dental check-ups
- Professional cleans
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Extractions
However, it’s important to note that some treatments are not included, such as:
- Orthodontics (e.g. braces)
- Cosmetic treatments
The focus is on preventive and basic restorative care to support your child’s long-term oral health. Read here to learn when your child should start visiting the dentist.
Who Is Eligible and What Does CDBS Cover?
Understanding eligibility and benefits can help you avoid missing out.
Who Is Eligible for CDBS?
Your child may be eligible if they:
- Are aged 0–17 years
- Are eligible for Medicare
- Receive certain government payments (or are part of a family that does)
Eligibility can change, so it’s always worth checking rather than assuming.
How Much Does CDBS Cover?
Eligible children can receive up to $1,000+ in dental benefits over two consecutive calendar years.
This cap resets after the two-year period, meaning families can continue accessing support if eligibility remains. Full details are available at Services Australia.
Why Many Families Miss Out on CDBS Benefits
Despite the value of the program, many families don’t use their child’s benefits.
Common reasons include:
- Not realising their child is eligible
- Assuming dental care is expensive
- Delaying appointments until problems arise
The reality is that preventive care is often fully or mostly covered under CDBS. Understanding your pricing and payment options can also help remove uncertainty around costs.
Why Early Dental Visits Matter for Kids
Early dental care plays a key role in your child’s overall health.
Regular visits help:
- Prevent tooth decay before it starts
- Detect issues early (when they’re easier to treat)
- Build confidence and positive dental habits
- Reduce fear or anxiety around dental visits
According to Better Health Victoria, establishing good oral hygiene habits early can significantly improve long-term dental outcomes.
How to Check and Use Your Child’s CDBS Benefits
The process is simple—and worth doing sooner rather than later.
How to Check Eligibility
You can check your child’s eligibility by:
- Logging into myGov and accessing Medicare
- Visiting Services Australia
- Contact us and ask about your child’s eligibility at SIA Dental Burwood, Essendon or Mulgrave
How to Use Your Benefits
Using your child’s benefits is straightforward:
- Book a dental appointment
- Confirm eligibility with the clinic
- Receive covered treatments under the scheme
At SIA Dental, we can guide you through the process and help ensure everything is handled smoothly.
How to Make the Most of the $1,000+ Benefit
To maximise your child’s CDBS benefits:
- Schedule regular check-ups and cleans
- Address small issues early before they become bigger problems
- Use your benefits before they expire
Many families miss out simply because they wait too long—planning ahead can make a big difference.
Book Your Child’s Dental Check-Up at SIA Dental Melbourne (CTA)
Don’t miss out on benefits your child may already be entitled to. At SIA Dental Melbourne, we make it easy for families across Burwood, Mulgrave, and Essendon to access quality care in a friendly, supportive environment. Whether you’re exploring children’s dental care in Melbourne or want clarity on pricing and payment options, our team is here to help you every step of the way. Book your child’s visit today and make the most of their CDBS benefits.