Navigating the world of dental care for your children can be challenging. Fortunately, the Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS) is here to help. If you’re a parent or guardian in Gosford, New South Wales, you might be wondering whether your child is eligible and what the CDBS covers. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of the CDBS, helping you understand what’s covered, who can access the benefits and how to use them at your local dentist in Gosford.
What Is Covered In The Child Dental Benefits Scheme?
The CDBS is designed to provide eligible children with access to essential dental services, ensuring they receive the care they need to maintain good oral health. The scheme covers a wide range of services, including:
- Dental check-ups and examinations
- Teeth cleaning and scaling
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental X-rays
- Fissure sealants
- Tooth extractions
- Dental fillings
- Root canal treatments
The CDBS offers a capped benefit of $1,013 per child over two consecutive calendar years. Keep in mind that this benefit does not cover orthodontic treatments, cosmetic dental procedures, or dental services provided in a hospital.
Who Can Get Child Dental Benefits?
To be eligible for the CDBS, your child must meet the following criteria:
- Aged between 2 and 17 years
- Eligible for Medicare
- Part of a family receiving an Australian Government payment, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A, ABSTUDY, or Parenting Payment
If you’re unsure whether your child is eligible, you can check their eligibility by logging into your Medicare online account through myGov or calling the Medicare general enquiries line.
How Do I Use The Child Dental Benefits?
Using the CDBS at your local dentist in Gosford is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to access dental services for your child:
- Find a participating dentist: Look for a dentist in Gosford that accepts the CDBS. Many dental clinics, such as Albany Dental, participate in the scheme and offer a wide range of child dental services.
- Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment for your child and mention that you’d like to use the CDBS when you make the booking.
- Bring your Medicare card: Don’t forget to bring your child’s Medicare card to the appointment. The dental clinic will confirm your child’s eligibility and remaining CDBS balance.
- Consent to treatment: Before any dental services are provided, your dentist will discuss the proposed treatment plan and associated costs with you. You’ll need to sign a consent form to proceed with the treatment under the CDBS.
Choose Albany Dental for Your Child’s Dental Care in Gosford
Ensuring your child has access to quality dental care is essential for maintaining their oral health and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Albany Dental, we’re proud to participate in the Child Dental Benefits Scheme, providing a range of dental services for eligible children in Gosford. Our team of experienced dental professionals is committed to delivering gentle, compassionate care tailored to the unique needs of our young patients. Don’t wait any longer to secure the best dental care for your child. Contact Albany Dental today to schedule an appointment and discover how the Child Dental Benefits Scheme can help keep your child’s smile bright and healthy.
