Free Kids Dental
Free Dental Care for Eligible Kids
Bulk-billed children's dental care through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Medicare · CDBS
Bulk-billed care, no out-of-pocket cost
Regular dental visits help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy while catching small problems before they become painful or need more complex treatment.
At Mount Druitt Dental, we bulk bill eligible treatments through the Australian Government's Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) — so eligible children receive essential dental care with no out-of-pocket cost for covered services, provided they have enough benefit remaining.
Eligible children aged 2–17 can access up to $1,000 in dental services over two consecutive calendar years under the CDBS — with no waiting list.
Before treatment begins, our team can check your child's eligibility and available CDBS balance, and explain what Medicare covers and whether any costs may apply.
Check Eligibility & Book
The Basics
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a Medicare program that helps eligible families access basic dental care for their children.
The two-calendar-year benefit period begins when a child first receives an eligible dental service. The available balance can then be used for approved treatments during that period, provided the child remains eligible.
At Mount Druitt Dental, we bulk bill approved CDBS services directly to Medicare — so eligible families will generally have nothing to pay for covered treatment within the child's remaining benefit limit.
Eligibility
Is my child eligible?
Your child may qualify for the CDBS when all of the following apply:
- They are eligible for Medicare
- They are aged 2–17 for at least one day during the calendar year
- The child, parent, carer or guardian receives an eligible Australian Government payment at least once during that calendar year
Family Tax Benefit Part A is one common qualifying payment, although several other Australian Government payments may also meet the requirements. Families don't normally need to apply or register separately — Services Australia checks eligibility throughout the year and generally sends a letter or electronic notification when a child qualifies.
You can check eligibility and balance through your Medicare online account linked to myGov — or our team can check for you before the appointment.
What's Covered
What dental treatments does CDBS cover?
- Dental examinations & check-ups
- Dental X-rays
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Fissure sealants
- Tooth-coloured fillings
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extractions
- Partial dentures in eligible circumstances
The CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment, cosmetic dentistry or dental services performed in a hospital. We'll explain whether the recommended treatment is covered before proceeding — and if a service isn't covered, or there isn't enough balance remaining, we'll discuss the cost with you first.
Prevention
Why children's check-ups matter
Tooth decay can develop without obvious pain in its early stages. Regular check-ups let the dentist examine your child's teeth, gums, bite and dental development, and may identify:
- Early signs of tooth decay
- Plaque or tartar build-up
- Gum inflammation
- Areas that are difficult to brush
- Teeth that may benefit from sealants
- Tooth eruption or development concerns
- Chipped, worn or injured teeth
- Orthodontic concerns to monitor
Early treatment is often simpler and may help prevent toothache, infection and emergency dental visits.
What To Expect
At your child's appointment
Eligibility & balance check
Our team confirms whether your child is currently eligible and checks how much CDBS benefit remains. Please have your child's Medicare details available.
Gentle dental examination
The dentist examines your child's teeth, gums and mouth, explaining each step in age-appropriate language to keep the visit calm and positive. X-rays may be recommended to spot decay between teeth or areas that can't be seen directly.
Treatment discussion
We explain our findings and recommend any treatment your child needs, with clear information about what can be bulk billed through Medicare before treatment begins.
Preventive advice
Practical guidance on brushing, fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth, diet and future check-ups to keep your child's smile healthy.
FAQs
CDBS questions, answered
How much does the CDBS cover?
Eligible children aged 2–17 can access up to $1,000 in dental services over two consecutive calendar years, with no waiting list.
What ages are eligible for CDBS?
Eligible children and teenagers must be aged from 2 to 17 for at least one day during the calendar year.
Do I need to apply?
A separate application is not normally required. Services Australia checks eligibility and notifies families when a child qualifies.
Is CDBS dental care completely free?
At Mount Druitt Dental, approved services can be bulk billed when your child is eligible and has enough benefit remaining. We will explain any uncovered costs before treatment.
Does the CDBS cover braces or Invisalign?
No. Orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners, are not covered by the CDBS.
Does CDBS cover fillings and extractions?
Yes. Clinically necessary fillings and tooth extractions are among the basic dental services that may be covered.
How can I check my child's remaining balance?
You can check through your Medicare online account linked to myGov or ask our team to assist.
What happens to unused benefits?
Unused benefits do not continue indefinitely. They are available within the applicable two-calendar-year benefit period, subject to ongoing eligibility.
Mount Druitt Dental welcomes eligible children using the CDBS. Book a children's dental appointment or call (02) 9677 1172 and we'll check your child's eligibility and balance for you.
