If you have children, you may be entitled to free dental care through a government program called the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS). Many Eastwood families don’t realise they qualify. Here’s a clear, plain-English guide to how it works and how to use it at Eastwood Dental.
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The CDBS is a Medicare program that helps cover the cost of basic dental services for eligible children. It is designed to make routine dental care more affordable for families, so children can build healthy habits early.
How much is covered?
Eligible children can access over $1,000 in dental benefits across a two-year period. The exact cap is set by the government and indexed each year, so it’s worth confirming the current amount when you book. The benefit can be used for a range of basic dental treatments (see below).
Who is eligible?
- Children aged 0–17 for at least one day in the calendar year
- Eligible for Medicare
- Your family receives Family Tax Benefit Part A or another qualifying payment for at least part of the year
Eligibility is assessed each calendar year. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to check your child’s eligibility for you — just ask our friendly Eastwood Dental team.
What treatments are included?
The CDBS covers a range of basic dental services, which generally include:
- Examinations and check-ups
- X-rays
- Cleaning (scale and clean)
- Fissure sealants
- Fillings
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatment
Please note the CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment (such as braces) or cosmetic dental work.
How to claim at Eastwood Dental
- Check your child’s eligibility via your myGov account linked to Medicare, or ask us to check for you.
- Book an appointment at Eastwood Dental and let us know you’d like to use the CDBS.
- We process the claim directly through Medicare, so eligible treatment within the cap means little to no out-of-pocket cost.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need private health insurance to use the CDBS?
No. The CDBS is a Medicare benefit and is separate from private health insurance.
What happens if we don’t use the full amount?
The benefit covers eligible services up to the cap over the two-year period. Unused balance generally does not roll over indefinitely, so it’s worth booking a check-up to make the most of it.
Where is Eastwood Dental located?
We’re at Suite 6, 79–81 Rowe Street, Eastwood NSW 2122 — a short walk from Eastwood Train Station.
Ready to book your child’s visit? Call Eastwood Dental on 02 9874 9900 or book online. We’ll check eligibility and help you make the most of your child’s dental benefits.