Wondering if your child qualifies for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) and what dental treatments are covered? Here's what parents in Coomera need to know about CDBS in 2026.
If you're a parent, keeping up with your child's dental health is important, but the cost of regular dental care can sometimes be a concern. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is an Australian Government program that can help eligible families access benefits for a range of basic dental services for children.
But who is eligible for CDBS? How much can you claim? And which dental treatments are covered?
In this guide, we'll explain how CDBS works, what services may be covered, and what parents should know before booking a CDBS dentist in Coomera.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government-funded dental benefits program administered through Medicare. It provides eligible children with benefits towards certain basic dental services.
For children whose eligibility begins in 2026, the benefit cap is up to $1,158 per child over two consecutive calendar years. The amount is indexed periodically, so the available benefit can change in future years.
The CDBS is designed to help eligible children access essential dental care, including preventive and basic treatment.
Your child may be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule if all of the following apply:
Eligible payments can include certain Family Tax Benefit and Centrelink payments.
You generally don't need to submit a separate CDBS application. Services Australia determines eligibility and sends eligible families information about the benefit.
Because eligibility can depend on your individual circumstances, it's a good idea to check your child's current eligibility through Services Australia before booking treatment.
For a child whose two-year CDBS period begins in 2026, the benefit cap is up to $1,158 over two consecutive calendar years.
This does not mean that every child receives $1,158 in free dental treatment. CDBS provides benefits for eligible services up to the available benefit limit, and the amount that can be claimed depends on the treatment provided and the applicable CDBS rules.
The two-year period begins at the start of the calendar year in which your child both becomes eligible and receives their first eligible dental service.
Unused benefits may be available in the following calendar year if your child remains eligible and there is money remaining from the benefit cap.
One of the most common questions parents ask a CDBS dentist is: What can my child's CDBS benefits actually be used for?
CDBS can provide benefits for a range of basic dental services, including:
Regular dental examinations can help identify early signs of tooth decay, gum problems and other oral health concerns.
Where clinically appropriate, dental X-rays may be covered to help assess areas not fully visible during a visual check.
Professional cleaning can help remove plaque and deposits that may be difficult to manage with brushing alone.
Fissure sealants can help protect the grooves of children's back teeth where food and plaque can sometimes become trapped.
Where a child has tooth decay, eligible fillings may be covered under CDBS, subject to the applicable rules and benefit limits.
Certain root canal procedures may be eligible for CDBS benefits when clinically required.
Some tooth extractions may also attract CDBS benefits when they meet the relevant requirements.
It's important to remember that CDBS has specific item and time restrictions. Your dentist can explain whether a proposed treatment is eligible before treatment begins.
CDBS is intended to assist with basic dental services. It does not cover every type of dental treatment.
For example, CDBS does not cover:
If your child needs treatment that isn't covered by CDBS, your dentist can explain the available treatment options and any applicable costs before proceeding.
Not necessarily.
This is an important distinction for parents. CDBS provides a benefit towards eligible dental services rather than guaranteeing that all dental treatment will be free.
The amount covered depends on the eligible service, the applicable CDBS benefit and your child's remaining balance.
If you are visiting a CDBS dentist in Coomera, ask the dental team about CDBS eligibility, the treatment being recommended and any expected out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
CDBS can make it easier for eligible families to access dental care, but regular check-ups are important regardless of whether your child currently has a dental problem.
Children's teeth and jaws are continually developing. Regular dental visits can help your dentist:
Starting dental visits early can also help children become familiar with the dental environment and build positive habits for the future.
If you think your child may be eligible for CDBS, the process can be straightforward.
Confirm your child's current CDBS eligibility through Services Australia.
Choose a dental practice that provides care for children and can process eligible CDBS services.
Before treatment, ask the dental team which recommended services may be eligible under CDBS and whether there could be any out-of-pocket costs.
Don't wait until your child develops tooth pain. Preventive dental visits can help identify problems early and support healthier teeth as they grow.
Taking your child to a dentist should be about more than treating dental problems. A positive experience can help children feel comfortable with dental care as they grow.
At Coomera Smiles Dental, our team provides gentle dental care for children in a friendly environment. Whether your child needs a routine check-up, preventive care or treatment for a dental concern, our team can discuss their needs with you and explain the available options.
If your child may be eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, speak with our dental team about their appointment and eligible treatment options.
Understanding the Child Dental Benefits Schedule can help eligible families make better use of available dental benefits while keeping children's oral health on track.
If you're looking for a CDBS dentist in Coomera, Coomera Smiles Dental can help you understand your child's dental needs, available treatment options and the CDBS process.
Book an appointment with Coomera Smiles Dental today and give your child's smile the care it deserves.
Speak with our friendly dental team about your child's dental needs and ask whether their treatment may be eligible for CDBS benefits.