Key Takeaways
- The CDBS provides up to $1,095 in dental benefits over 2 years for eligible children.
- It covers essential treatments like check-ups, cleans, fillings, and more.
- Efficient use involves regular visits, early treatment, and understanding inclusions.
- Choosing a bulk billing dental clinic like Morrin Dental helps families avoid out-of-pocket costs.
- Newcastle families can check eligibility easily through Medicare or by contacting the clinic.
Dental care is an important part of every child’s health, but it can be a concern for families trying to manage household costs. The good news is the Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) helps eligible families access basic dental services at little or no cost.
If you’re a parent or carer in Newcastle, it’s worth understanding how this scheme works and how to make the most of it — especially if you’re visiting a family-friendly provider like Morrin Dental.
What Is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The CDBS is a government-funded program providing up to $1,095 over two calendar years for eligible children aged 0 to 17 to access dental services.
This funding can be used for a range of common procedures such as:
- Dental check-ups
- Cleans
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Fissure sealants
- Extractions
- Root canal treatments
The services must be provided by a dentist who accepts the CDBS and bulk bills the service under Medicare.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the CDBS, your child must:
- Be aged 0 to 17 years at any time in the calendar year
- Be eligible for Medicare
- Receive, or have a parent/guardian receiving, a government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A
If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies, you can:
- Log into your MyGov account linked to Medicare
- Call Medicare on 132 011
- Ask Morrin Dental to check eligibility on your behalf
How the $1,095 Cap Works
The $1,095 benefit cap is spread over two calendar years, not financial years. This means if your child uses only part of their cap in the first year, the remaining amount rolls into the second.
Importantly, any unused balance after the two-year period does not carry over. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead and use the available funds while they’re active.
You can begin a new two-year cycle if your child remains eligible, but the full balance resets.
How to Use Your Benefits Efficiently
Here’s how Newcastle families can get the most out of the CDBS:
1. Book Regular Preventive Visits
Routine check-ups and cleans are fully covered under the CDBS. These visits help detect early issues and prevent costly problems later, such as fillings or extractions. Booking every six months is a good rule of thumb.
2. Start Early
As soon as your child becomes eligible, start using the benefits. Preventive dental care from a young age helps set strong oral health habits and avoids the need for more serious intervention later.
3. Choose a Bulk Billing Dentist
Look for a clinic, like Morrin Dental, that offers bulk billing for all CDBS-eligible services. This means there are no gap payments and the cost is completely covered by Medicare.
Always confirm which treatments are bulk billed before your appointment to avoid any surprises.
4. Plan Around the Calendar Years
Because the benefits are allocated per calendar year, aim to space out your visits and services to maximise the two-year period. For example:
- Year 1: Check-up and clean, fissure sealants
- Year 2: Another check-up, follow-up treatment if needed (e.g., fillings)
5. Understand What’s Not Covered
The CDBS doesn’t cover:
- Orthodontic treatments (e.g. braces)
- Cosmetic dentistry (e.g. whitening)
- Treatments done in a hospital
Knowing what’s not included helps avoid unnecessary spending or misusing the cap.
Why Choose Morrin Dental for CDBS in Newcastle?
At Morrin Dental, we believe every child deserves access to quality dental care, regardless of financial situation. That’s why we:
- Accept and bulk bill all CDBS treatments
- Offer child-friendly care in a calm and welcoming environment
- Have experienced dentists who understand kids’ oral health needs
- Help families check eligibility and track remaining benefits
- Offer reminders for upcoming visits to keep preventive care on track
We’re located conveniently for Newcastle families and welcome new patients year-round.
Check Now — Don’t Let Benefits Go to Waste
Many families are surprised to find they’ve let the CDBS benefits expire without using the full amount. Even if your child hasn’t had dental issues, regular preventive care is covered and strongly recommended.
If you’re unsure about eligibility, call our team and we can check for you.
Final Tips for Newcastle Families
- Use the CDBS even if your child seems fine — it’s ideal for prevention, not just emergencies.
- Coordinate with your health fund if you have extras cover — sometimes it’s better to use CDBS first.
- Keep track of your child’s benefit usage using Medicare or by asking your dental clinic.
Book Today and Make the Most of Your Benefits
Don’t miss out on the dental care your child is entitled to. Call Morrin Dental or book online to schedule an appointment under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
We’ll take care of the paperwork, the bulk billing, and most importantly — your child’s smile.