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Family Dental 101: How to Use CDBS for Your Child’s Dental Care (Without the Confusion)

Confused family learning how to use CDBS for a child’s dental care in Greenbank.
Feeling confused about CDBS? This guide helps parents understand eligibility and how to use it for simple, stress-free dental care.

If you’ve heard about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) but aren’t quite sure how it works, you’re not alone.

Many parents know their child may be eligible — but don’t fully understand:

  • What’s covered

  • How to access it

  • Or how to use it effectively

The good news?

CDBS is designed to make dental care more accessible for families — and when used properly, it can support your child’s long-term oral health without added financial stress.


What Is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a government program that provides eligible children with access to essential dental services.

As of 1 January 2026, CDBS covers up to $1,158 over two consecutive calendar years for basic dental care.


This increase gives families more flexibility to stay on top of preventive care and routine dental visits.

CDBS can be used for services such as:

  • Check-ups

  • Cleaning

  • X-rays

  • Fillings

  • Fissure sealants



Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is generally based on:

  • Age (0–17 years)

  • Family receiving certain government benefits

Many families are eligible without realising it.

If you’re unsure, our team can help you check quickly and easily.


What Does CDBS Cover?

CDBS focuses on preventive and essential care, not cosmetic treatment.

That means it supports:

  • Regular check-ups

  • Early detection of dental issues

  • Maintaining healthy teeth and gums

It’s designed to keep small problems from becoming bigger ones.


How to Use CDBS the Right Way

The most effective way to use CDBS is proactively, not reactively.

Instead of waiting for pain or problems, use it for:

  • Routine check-ups

  • Monitoring development

  • Preventive care

This approach keeps visits simple, predictable and stress-free — for both you and your child.


Why Was My Child Eligible Last Year, But Not This Year?

This is one of the most common questions we hear from parents.

And the answer is usually straightforward.

CDBS eligibility is linked to government benefit status, which can change depending on your circumstances.


The Most Common Reasons Eligibility Changes


Changes to government benefits

CDBS is linked to certain Centrelink payments. If these change or stop — even temporarily — eligibility may also change.


Income changes

A shift in household income, work hours or employment can affect eligibility assessments.


Age limits

CDBS is available for children aged 0–17. Once a child turns 18, they are no longer eligible.


Two-year benefit cycles

CDBS runs in two-year periods. You may have used benefits previously and not qualify for the next cycle.


What Should You Do If You’re Unsure?

If your child was previously eligible but isn’t now, the best step is simply to check.

At Greenbank Family Dental, we can:

  • Confirm eligibility

  • Explain what may have changed

  • Help you understand your options

Even without CDBS, regular check-ups remain one of the simplest ways to avoid more complex treatment later.


Why Early and Regular Care Still Matters

Children who attend regular dental visits:

  • Feel more comfortable in the dental environment

  • Develop stronger oral hygiene habits

  • Are less likely to need emergency treatment

  • Build long-term confidence around dental care

CDBS supports this — but the long-term benefit comes from consistency.


For Families in Greenbank

As a local family dentist in Greenbank, we believe every parent should feel confident navigating their child’s dental care — including understanding what support is available.

CDBS is one of the simplest ways to access preventive care, and we’re here to make that process clear, straightforward and stress-free.

Ready to Check Your Child’s Eligibility?

If you’d like help checking eligibility or booking your child’s next visit, our team is here to support you.

Let’s make dental care simple, clear and easy for your family.


Frequently Asked Questions:


What is CDBS and how much does it cover?

CDBS provides eligible children with access to basic dental care. It currently covers up to $1,158 over two years.


How do I know if my child is eligible for CDBS?

Eligibility depends on age and whether your family receives certain government benefits. A dental clinic can help you check quickly.


Why has my child’s CDBS eligibility changed?

Eligibility can change due to income updates, changes to government benefits, age limits, or moving into a new two-year benefit cycle.


Can I still book if my child isn’t eligible?

Yes. Regular check-ups are still important and help prevent more complex and costly treatment later.

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