The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) gives eligible Australian children access to Medicare-covered dental care. Yet many Central Coast families never use it. Here is how to check your child’s eligibility and what the benefit covers in 2026.
Who is eligible?
Your child may be eligible for the CDBS if they are aged 0 to 17 for at least one day that calendar year, are eligible for Medicare, and you receive an eligible government payment such as Family Tax Benefit Part A. Services Australia assesses eligibility automatically at the start of each year. You can confirm through your Medicare online account, the Express Plus Medicare app, or by asking our reception team to check when you book.
What does the CDBS cover?
The schedule provides a capped benefit (over $1,000 across two calendar years, so check the current cap with Medicare) covering check-ups, cleans, X-rays, fillings, fissure sealants, extractions and root canals. It does not cover orthodontics or cosmetic work, and treatment must be clinically necessary.
Bulk billed at our Charmhaven clinic
At Dental Smile Charmhaven we bulk bill CDBS services, so there is nothing to pay out of pocket for covered treatment. Bring your child’s Medicare card to the appointment and we handle the claiming on the spot. Regular visits from a young age build lifelong habits. Under the CDBS, cost is no reason to wait.
How to book
Call (02) 4330 0834 and mention the CDBS when you book. Our team will confirm eligibility, explain what is covered before any treatment begins, and make your child’s visit as relaxed as possible. Learn more on our CDBS page.
