Free Dental Care for Kids in Warrnambool: How to Access It

Did you know that it’s recommended to take your child to the dentist within 6 months of their first tooth emerging or by the time they turn one? 

Starting dental visits early can help them feel at ease with the dentist. However, that’s not all. It also allows us to closely monitor their oral health and detect minor issues before they become complex problems. 

Now, we understand that you might be worried about adding another expense to the list with everything else that’s going on. At the same time, you might be feeling guilty about worrying about dental costs because it’s about your child’s oral and overall health. 

Here’s the good news – at Warrnambool Smile Dental, we offer free kids dental care for children between the ages of 2 and 17 who qualify for the Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS). 

Want to learn more about it? Keep reading. 

What is CDBS? 

CDBS is an Australian Government program designed to make dental care more accessible for children. This Medicare service, which began in 2014, covers up to $1,052 worth of dental treatment over two consecutive calendar years for eligible children. 

Here’s how it works: 

• The 2 year period starts at the beginning of the calendar year when your child becomes eligible and receives their first dental service. 
• You can claim the full amount in the first calendar year. However, there will be no funds left for the second year.
• If you don’t use the full amount in the first year, the remaining balance will be carried out into the second year (if your child is still eligible for CDBS). 
• Any remaining funds will expire if you don’t use the full amount within two consecutive years. You will have to wait for a new 2 year cover period to start. 
• If your child is no longer eligible for this program, you won’t be able to use any leftover funds.  

What are the Services Covered by CDBS? 

This scheme covers a range of essential dental services including: 

• Dental Check-ups and cleaning 
• X-rays 
• Fissure sealants 
• Tooth fillings
• Root canals 
• Tooth extractions

This scheme doesn’t cover treatments such as orthodontic treatments, cosmetic dental procedures and dental services in a hospital. 

Who Can Get It? 

When it comes to the CDBS, you don’t need to go through a registration process. Services Australia will typically notify you if you’re eligible. 

Your child will be eligible for CDBS if the following conditions are met: 

• They are eligible for Medicare
• They are between the ages of 0 and 17
• You are claiming Family Tax Benefit Part A or similar

Want to know if your children are eligible? Just call us or visit our clinic and our team will help you determine their eligibility. 

How Can I Access CDBS for My Child? 

At Warrnambool Smile Dental, unlike many other clinics in Warrnambool, we bulk bill all eligible services up to $1,052. What this means is that you won’t have to bear any out-of-pocket costs for most of these treatments. 

However, do keep in mind that you can’t claim from both the CDBS and a private health insurer for the same dental service. 

Want to learn more about free dental care for your child in Warrnambool? Our friendly team is here to help.